The Life-Changing Decision That Shaped My Journey
Life is a series of moments that define us, each turn making a monumental impact on our trajectory. For me, the journey has been filled with wonder and adventure, but it all began with a pivotal decision at the age of 18.
From Chicago to the World
Until the age of five, I called Chicago, Illinois, my home. However, before my 18th birthday, my family moved 18 times, which meant I attended 12 different grade schools and three high schools. Even though I graduated with no money and limited employment opportunities, I had a clear sense of direction that would take me far beyond the confines of my familiar city.
The United States Air Force
After graduating from high school, I chose to enlist in the United States Air Force. This decision was not just about military service; it was about finding a career that would challenge me and offer unique opportunities. My journey with the United States Air Force was both exhilarating and transformative.
A Studious Path
Following basic training, the Air Force sent me to Indiana University to learn Russian. Through sheer dedication and hard work, I became fluent in multiple languages, including English, Russian, Spanish, German, and French. This linguistic proficiency was not just a tool but a path that opened many doors and opportunities.
A Secretive Branch of Service
The United States Air Force Security Service (AFSS), now commonly known as USAFSS, was a secretive and tight-knit branch that required top secret clearances. Our work was highly classified, and we were not allowed to discuss our job details, even with fellow members. Our restricted travel and strict security measures were a testament to the sensitive nature of the work we did. We monitored, collected, and interpreted military voice and electronic signals from countries of interest, including the Soviet Union and its satellite states.
A Career of Multiple Roles
My Air Force career was just the beginning. By the age of 22, I had graduated from the U.S. Air Force's School of Russian Language, Voice Intercept Processing School, and GED College Program. I earned over 24 college credits in Russian language, six in Russian history, six in English, three in military history, and three in government. I also obtained the rank of Staff Sergeant. These achievements laid a solid foundation for my future endeavors.
An Entrepreneurial Spirit
Since my 22nd birthday, I have become the President/CEO of three different cooperative banks and a university instructor at two colleges. I've lived, studied, and worked in 30 different countries across five continents. I earned an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Accounting, a Bachelor of Science Degree in Labor Economics, a Master of Science Degree in the Management and Development of Human Resources, and a Master of Science Degree in Management. These achievements culminated in obtaining a Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Business Administration. Each of these roles has shaped who I am today and contributed to my global outlook.
Organizational Development Assignments and International Work
Over a 15-year period, I had six organizational development assignments for ACDI/VOCA in Moldova, Kazakhstan, Russia, Ethiopia, and Ghana, with two assignments in Ghana. These assignments were integral to my career, helping me to understand the complexities of organizing and developing communities across diverse cultures.
A groundbreaking Project
While serving as the President/CEO of the EdCo Educational Community Credit Union in Des Moines, Iowa, I was selected as the Project Manager for a multi-year project reintroducing cooperative banks into the republics of the former Soviet Union and Eastern Europe. This project involved working with a network of 97 agencies across 44 states and was recognized by the United Nations. I was a finalist for the role of President/CEO of the Farm Agricultural Organizations Cooperative Bank in Rome, Italy.
Reflecting on my journey, it seems like only yesterday that I was an 18-year-old facing the future with a sense of curiosity and determination. The decision to join the Air Force was a turning point that guided my life toward adventure, learning, and innovation.
Conclusion
The decisions we make can shape our entire lives. For me, the choice to serve in the Air Force was the catalyst that set me on a path of wonder and adventure. Each step, every opportunity, and every experience has been a part of my extraordinary journey.