Machine Learning Analysis to Determine Predictive Factors of Special Operations Assessment Success

By Spc. Kasimir Jackson 27th Public Affairs Detachment Public Affairs Mass Communication SpecialistApril 27, 2022

United States Military Academy Cadet Anna Vinnedge demonstrates the power of mathematical modeling as a tool in predicting success and to identify the right individual for the right job on April 20, 2022, at West Point, N.Y.
1 / 2 Show Caption + Hide Caption – United States Military Academy Cadet Anna Vinnedge demonstrates the power of mathematical modeling as a tool in predicting success and to identify the right individual for the right job on April 20, 2022, at West Point, N.Y. (Photo Credit: (U.S. Army Photo by Christopher Hennen/USMA)) VIEW ORIGINAL
United States Military Academy Cadet Anna Vinnedge demonstrates the power of mathematical modeling as a tool in predicting success and to identify the right individual for the right job on April 20, 2022, at West Point, N.Y.
2 / 2 Show Caption + Hide Caption – United States Military Academy Cadet Anna Vinnedge demonstrates the power of mathematical modeling as a tool in predicting success and to identify the right individual for the right job on April 20, 2022, at West Point, N.Y. (Photo Credit: (U.S. Army Photo by Christopher Hennen/USMA)) VIEW ORIGINAL

West Point, N.Y. – The 75th Ranger Regiment is an elite force whose members must complete a rigorous selection and assessment process to join the unit.

“The Army is currently fighting a ‘war for talent’ and is constantly searching for skilled individuals who possess traits that will help the Army succeed,” said U.S. Military Academy Cadet Anna Vinnedge.

Through machine learning and artificial intelligence, this research seeks to determine what factors predict success for the U.S. Army Ranger candidates.

“This project is important to the Army because it demonstrates the power of mathematical modeling as one potential tool in predicting success and to identify the right individual for the job,” Vinnedge said. “In order to do this, we need to know what those traits are, how important they are to a mission set, and how these traits may display themselves.”

Many special operations units across the joint forces employ selective recruitment processes for Soldiers. The methodology used in the research could be applied to improve the recruitment, retention, and selection of Soldiers.

“Conducting this research has been one of the most developmental experiences I have had throughout my time at West Point,” Vinnedge said.

Vinnedge began the project by visiting the 75th Ranger Regiment and working with their team and observing several selection assessments.

“I gained valuable insight on what makes a Soldier resilient, both physically and mentally, and expanded on my concept of what it takes to be successful in challenging environments,” Vinnedge said. “I am grateful for the skills and relationships I have built throughout the research process, and look forward to taking them with me as I embark on my journey as an Army Officer.”

West Point's 23rd annual Projects Day will showcase more than 400 research projects by over 1,000 cadets! We welcome and celebrate the over 80 external partners and West Point faculty who contributed to these cadet-led projects. Follow along by signing up for the Projects Day App and learn more about the Academics at West Point.

About West Point

The U. S. Military Academy at West Point is a four-year, co-educational, federal, liberal arts college located 50 miles north of New York City. It was founded in 1802 as America's first college of engineering and continues today as the world’s premier leader-development institution, consistently ranked among top colleges in the country. Its mission remains constant—to educate, train, and inspire the Corps of Cadets so that each graduate is a commissioned leader of character committed to the values of Duty, Honor, Country and prepared for a career of professional excellence and service to the nation as an officer in the U. S. Army. For more information about the academy, go to www.westpoint.edu.