Rank: Senior Chief Petty Officer
Rating (job): Aviation Electrician. “I troubleshoot and fix complex electrical problems on military aircraft ranging from jets to helicopters,” said Wortham.
Years in Navy: 24
Current Duty Location: USS John C. Stennis
Reason for joining Navy: Money for college. “So far, I received my master’s degree and I'm currently pursuing my doctorate degree,” said Wortham.
Favorite part of job: Mentorship. “My favorite part of the job is watching the sailors I trained over the years grow in their professional development and watch them successfully train and inspire the next group of incoming sailors,” said Wortham. “This gives me a sense of satisfaction. When I retire, I’ll know I made a difference in a lot of the lives of sailors I had the pleasure to serve with.”
Hometown mentor: High school homeroom teacher, Mr. Smith. “He inspired me to stay in school and not to follow in some of my friends’ footsteps who were on the wrong path,” said Wortham.
Memories of hometown: “I miss being with my family and close friends on a regular basis,” said Wortham. “I also miss some of the food that you can only find in my hometown.”
Navy Week: “I am looking forward to going back home, seeing my family, eating some good food, but also assisting the local community,” said Wortham.