In a line-and-staff organization, who represents the line of personnel?

In a line-and-staff organization, the line personnel are primarily responsible for the core functions of the organization and directly contribute to achieving its objectives. Students in this context represent the line personnel because they are the primary focus of the training and education system. Their learning and development are essential for the effectiveness of the organization, making them integral to its operations.

Instructors, while crucial, serve a staff role by facilitating the learning process and providing guidance; they do not represent the line of personnel. Administrative staff and support personnel also function in supportive capacities, managing operations and logistics rather than being the primary agents or individuals directly engaged in the core mission of training or operational execution. Therefore, identifying students as the line personnel aligns with the concept that they are the end-users and benefactors of the organization's services.