MANCHESTER, N.H. - U.S. Navy Ensign Myles McCarthy charted a unique course to commissioning as an officer in the Navy Reserves. Raised in Stoneham, Massachusetts, McCarthy graduated from Malden Catholic High School in Malden. At a crossroads, he faced a decision: enlist in the Navy or attend college.
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U.S. Navy Ensign Myles McCarthy. Photo by Townsend Portrait Studio, Newport, RI. (Courtesy Photo) |
Opting for the latter, McCarthy earned a bachelor’s degree in history from the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth. After a few years working in security, McCarthy felt his career lacked direction and decided to make a change.
“I reevaluated my goals and revisited the idea of joining the military,” said McCarthy. "I was drawn to the Navy because of its technical career options, opportunities for quick enlistment, and assistance with student loan repayment.”
McCarthy transitioned to civilian life in 2016, starting as a field service technician while pursuing a career in cybersecurity. During this time, he joined the Air Force Reserve, serving five years at Westover Air Reserve Base in Chicopee, Massachusetts, as a combat crew communications technician. There, he helped establish the base's first combat crew communications office alongside Senior Master Sgt. Shannon Oleksak, the combat crew communications superintendent.
“My time in the Air Force Reserve provided opportunities to gain certifications and hands-on experience in the cyber field,” said McCarthy.
His first cybersecurity certification, earned through the Air Force, opened the door to his role as an information system security officer at BAE Systems. Steadily advancing in the cybersecurity field, McCarthy earned a master’s degree in project management and operations and a graduate certificate in Six Sigma Black Belt. He is currently working toward his next cyber certification, further enhancing his professional expertise.
Toward the end of his Air Force Reserves contract, McCarthy transferred to the Air National Guard, serving in the combat crew communications office at Pease Air National Guard Base in Newington, New Hampshire. During this time, he participated in a 90-day activation to support the New Hampshire State Prison in Concord, New Hampshire. The mission was to supplement the correctional officer staff in control centers due to critical understaffing.
While in the Air National Guard, McCarthy learned about the Navy Direct Commission Program and decided to apply. He was accepted and selected for the Information Professional (IP) Officer Program. He completed Officer Development School in November 2024 and will be attending IP Basic Training in 2025.
“As a Reservist, I have had the privilege of contributing to unique missions that demonstrate the flexibility and importance of the Reserve Component,” added McCarthy. "My experiences in both the Navy and Air Force Reserves have been instrumental in shaping my career and personal growth.”
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