Architecting the Strategic Enlisted Force

At the School of Advanced International Policy (SAIP), we believe that in an era of Great Power Competition and disruptive global change, tactical proficiency is no longer the sole requirement for success. The complexity of the modern "Grey Zone" demands a new breed of practitioner: one who can execute with precision on the ground while simultaneously understanding the strategic ripples their actions create in the halls of power.

Our Vision Statement

"To be the global benchmark for enlisted strategic education, cultivating a Joint and Total Force of sophisticated advisors who bridge the gap between tactical reality and national policy."

Our Mission

The mission of SAIP is to provide graduate-level academic rigor and professional credentialing to the international affairs community. We transform experienced operators into strategic assets by providing a deep intellectual foundation in policy analysis, statecraft, and security cooperation.

We don't just teach the "how" of international engagement; we master the "why."

The Three Pillars of the SAIP Vision

1. The Intellectual High Ground

We believe that academic rigor is a force multiplier. By partnering with academic institutions, we provide a pathway for the enlisted force to achieve graduate-level fluency in Public Administration and International Policy. We envision a force in which every Senior Enlisted Leader is as comfortable in a policy seminar as in an operational debrief.

2. Joint & Total Force Integration

While our heritage is rooted in the 9L Association, our vision is inclusive. SAIP serves as a crucible where practitioners from every branch—Active, Guard, and Reserve—converge to share perspectives. We believe that the best solutions to global challenges are found at the intersection of Joint experience.

3. Influence Through Expertise

Our vision is to move the enlisted force from the "periphery" of policy to the center of the room. Through our flagship programs—the AIASP and the EISP—we prepare our graduates to sit at the right hand of Commanders and Ambassadors, providing the nuanced, culturally aware, and historically grounded advice that modern statecraft requires.

The "Enlisted Strategic Asset" Philosophy

For too long, the "strategic level" was viewed as the exclusive domain of the officer corps and civilian leadership. SAIP is here to challenge that paradigm.

We believe that the enlisted personnel in international affairs and strategy are the eyes and ears of American influence. When we empower these individuals with a broad education in Foreign Policy, Intelligence Tradecraft, and Security Cooperation, we are not just improving a career field—we are strengthening the National Security Enterprise.

Our Commitment to the Future

As we look toward the next decade of international engagement, SAIP will continue to evolve. Guided by our Board of Advisors and fueled by the operational grit of our students, we will remain the premier institution for those who refuse to settle for "tactical only."

We are building the thinkers who will navigate the future of American statecraft.