The NOAA Corps gained 20 new officers on Apr. 3. The first NOAA Corps Basic Officer Training Class (BOTC) of 2025 graduated after spending 12 weeks learning skills needed to become leaders in one of the nation’s eight uniformed services.
For the first time, three BOTC classes will be held per calendar year, increasing the annual number of incoming officers by 50%. BOTC is held at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy in New London, Connecticut where NOAA Corps and U.S. Coast Guard officer candidates train alongside each other in a joint officer training program. Before receiving their first assignment, officer candidates take part in the demanding and fast-paced training program, which prepares them for the NOAA fleet.
The classes are conducted through a mixed-learning curriculum involving classroom and hands-on instruction. Conformity to the strict standards of appearance, conduct, and obedience to orders are also stressed and measured. Leadership development is a key component.
Upon completion of BOTC, graduates set out to the NOAA fleet where they operate ships that map the seafloor, monitor oceanographic and atmospheric conditions, and support fisheries research. In some classes, officers are assigned to the aviation program to operate aircraft, however all of the officers in this class will be heading to one of NOAA’s 15 research vessels.
With a combination of commissioned service and scientific expertise, NOAA Corps officers are uniquely capable of leading some of NOAA’s most important initiatives. Their mission involves contributing to scientific research around the nation, including remote areas, where they assess marine life and the environment. They also support disaster relief operations and play a role in ensuring the safety of waterway navigation. Learn more about the NOAA Corps and how to apply to become an officer.
Congratulations to the following newly commissioned ensigns:
Ensign Adam Stickney; Portsmouth, United Kingdom (following assignment at Marine Operations Center - Pacific)
Ensign Sanam Viliani; Los Angeles, California
Ensign Elias Lawson; Ashland, Oregon
Ensign Travis Miller; Bexley, Ohio
Ensign Nolan Palmer; Natick, Massachusetts
Ensign William Smith; Wetumpka, Alabama
Ensign Noel Anderson; Ashfield, Massachusetts
Ensign Sabrina Dahl; Chesapeake, Virginia
Ensgin Joshua Bennett; Trinidad, California
Ensign Caitlin Retzlaff; Pensacola, Florida (following assignment at Marine Operations Center - Pacific Islands)
Ensign Matthew Tillman; Panama City Beach, Florida
Ensign John Canez; Oro Valley, Arizona
Ensign Jesus Rodriguez; San Antonio, Texas (following assignment at NOAA Gulfport Marine Support Facility)
Ensign Joshua Howsmon; St. Louis, Missouri
Ensign Gabriel Kuntz; Boise, Idaho
Ensign Jacob Saum; Ventura, California
Ensign James Hutzenbiler; Knoxville, Tennessee
Ensign Camille Cube; Falls Church, Virginia
Ensign Brendan Peck; Fleming Island, Florida
Ensign Lindsey Thurston; Goshen, New York