University of Nebraska, USSTRATCOM leaders meet to advance research, workforce partnerships

University of Nebraska System President Dr. Jeffrey Gold and 25 senior university leaders visited U.S. Strategic Command Nov. 3 for an immersion designed to strengthen alignment between Nebraska's academic enterprise and USSTRATCOM science and technology priorities.

The delegation included campus chancellors and vice chancellors for research and academic affairs from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, University of Nebraska Omaha, University of Nebraska Medical Center, and University of Nebraska at Kearney, as well as leaders from the National Strategic Research Institute and Nebraska Defense Research Corporation.

"The challenges facing strategic deterrence demand close collaboration among our military, academic, industry, and government partners," said U.S. Navy Adm. Rich Correll, commander, USSTRATCOM. "The University of Nebraska System brings exceptional research capacity, innovative thinking, and a deep commitment to developing the workforce our nation needs. This engagement is about turning those strengths into enduring capability, connecting operational problems to academic expertise and preparing the next generation to support the nation's strategic deterrence."

During the visit, university leaders received an operational overview of USSTRATCOM's mission, including its two core responsibilities: preserving the President's decision space and providing the broadest array of credible military options. Discussions connected the command's operational data-integration needs with opportunities for university-led research, applied technology development, and academic talent development.

The engagement supports the 2026 National Defense Strategy's focus on "peace through strength" and reinforces the importance of sustained partnerships among the Department of War, academia, industry, and government organizations across the Heartland. This continuing session builds on an established partnership that includes the NSRI, NDRC, and other opportunities to align research, innovation, and technical expertise with USSTRATCOM mission requirements.

A primary focus of the visit was aligning University of Nebraska System research capabilities with USSTRATCOM's five strategic imperatives: sustain the force; operationalize emerging technology; maximize flexibility and effectiveness in operations; drive strategic integration; and transition to a modernized force. Particular emphasis was placed on sustaining the force through responsive research support and operationalizing emerging technology to enhance decision-making and maintain a strategic advantage. These efforts are intended to translate operational challenges into research questions, accelerate access to relevant technical expertise, and develop solutions that support the command's enduring deterrence mission.

In addition to research collaboration, USSTRATCOM and University of Nebraska leaders discussed expanding civilian workforce and student internship pipelines. The long-term goal is to create a pathway that connects students and emerging professionals with internships, research experiences, and potential civilian careers supporting national security.

"Today's engagement reinforces the University of Nebraska's commitment to continued growth and investment in the strategic priorities that safeguard our nation and strengthen our state," said Gold. "By expanding research partnerships and developing connections, we are positioning the University of Nebraska System to make enduring contributions to national security and USSTRATCOM. We are grateful to Adm. Correll and his team for a highly inspiring meeting."

The engagement established a foundation for continued coordination among USSTRATCOM, the University of Nebraska System, NSRI, NDRC, and other mission partners to identify research priorities, develop workforce opportunities, and deliver practical capability to support strategic deterrence.