Defense Equal Opportunity Management Institute (DEOMI)

The Defense Equal Opportunity Management Institute (DEOMI) program, as outlined in Program Element PE 0808709SE, is managed by the DoD Human Resources Activity and funded under the Research, Development, Test & Evaluation (RDT&E), Defense-Wide appropriation. The primary goal of DEOMI is to foster cultures of excellence throughout the Department of Defense by advancing learning, research, and integrated knowledge management. This is intended to optimize total force readiness by ensuring that military personnel and organizations benefit from the latest advancements in human relations education, training, and research.

DEOMI's objectives are specifically focused on management support activities that inform the development and deployment of advanced technologies, training methodologies, and human relations job-aids. The program conducts studies on a broad array of topics, including leadership, organizational performance, and the impact of human relations on individuals and units. These research efforts are designed to produce actionable recommendations and publications that enhance the effectiveness of DoD personnel and support the mission readiness of the force.

A key component of DEOMI's strategy is the expansion of research domains to include the Science of Learning. This aims to optimize the institute's education and training mission objectives by leveraging cutting-edge research to improve how training is delivered and how learning outcomes are measured and achieved. The program also supports the development and fielding of up-to-date training programs and technologies across the DoD, ensuring that personnel are equipped with the skills necessary to succeed in a rapidly changing workplace environment.

DEOMI maintains active partnerships with Military Service Academies, Technology Laboratories, Colleges, and Universities, as well as formal and informal collaborations with external academic, research, and government agencies worldwide. DEOMI's Summer STEM program, in partnership with the Office of Naval Research, exemplifies the institute's commitment to integrating STEM education and research into its human relations training initiatives. These collaborations are essential for keeping DEOMI's programs current and relevant to the evolving needs of the Department of Defense.

The program is also guided by Executive Orders 13111 and 13218, which require federal agencies to take full advantage of technological advances in workforce education and training. DEOMI's activities are aligned with these mandates, ensuring that the DoD workforce acquires the necessary skills and learning to adapt to new challenges. The institute is responsible for reporting on the training technologies used and for developing innovative solutions that support equal opportunity, leadership development, and other emerging human relations topics.

For Fiscal Years 2024 through 2026, DEOMI's budget supports ongoing research and partnership activities, with planned expansions to additional service technology laboratories and academic institutions. The program continues to conduct fundamental topical research and analysis on human relations issues identified in DoD Instructions 1350.02 and 1020.03, which govern equal opportunity and anti-discrimination policies within the Department. The funding ensures DEOMI's transformation into a Center of Excellence, supporting the DoD's objectives in equal opportunity, leadership development, and readiness.