From the desert to the coast to the classroom

Tucson, Arizona native and United States Coast Guard Senior Chief Petty Officer Nicholas McGowen got off the water of Lake Champlain on the shores of Vermont on a recent humid summer morning.

But he didn’t start there. 

Growing up in Arizona, McGowen wanted to serve but didn’t know what called him. A high school project took him to a small Coast Guard boat station in Portland, Oregon. During that trip, his love of rescuing and saving lives grew and has since developed into 17 years of service with the Coast Guard.

“I joined in November 2006 and went straight to Alaska right after boot camp in Cape May, New Jersey,” he said. “That was a bit of an adjustment from Arizona to Alaska. Two weeks after arriving in Alaska, I was in the Bering Sea in January on a 60-day patrol. It was a big shock to the system, but I loved every minute of it.”

During this time, he had thought about continuing his education, but hadn’t found a program that fit. In 2022, the time seemed right to finally take things a step further and focus on his education.

“I had all this knowledge and all this experience, and I didn’t know what to do with it,” McGowen said. “The military has so many opportunities where I could utilize my tuition assistance, and the Naval Community College covered some classes as well. How could I not take advantage of that and leave my GI Bill for my three boys.”

Arizona State University and the United States Naval Community College partnership offers various associate degree programs, including logistics (maritime), military studies and organizational leadership. Through the programs, enlisted military members are prepared for various careers in the armed forces.

Designed for sailors, marines and coast guardsmen interested in leadership roles and becoming better leaders, the associate in arts in organizational leadership equips learners with problem-solving skills, effective communication and resource management.

McGowen is the first graduate of that program.

As the Officer in Charge of Station Burlington, McGowen is the commanding officer, leading his unit, a role that requires strong leadership skills. This position is unique among the U.S. military branches of the Coast Guard; It entrusts enlisted members with the burden of command.

“The foundation to leadership is being able to work with people and problem solve,” McGowen said. “If there is a conflict within my unit or if there is a sensitive personal matter, I’m the individual that handles all of those leadership decisions that need to be made. I chose this degree program because it enhanced the skills I had already developed over all these years. It came natural to me with my experience.”

And because ASU established pathways to four-year degree programs, he was able to continue his education after graduating with his associate degree.

“ASU accepted my AA credits and a few of my Navy trainings. That really helped a lot,” he said.

McGowen enrolled in the organizational leadership program through ASU Online, allowing him to learn from the same faculty who teach on-campus and continue to earn his degree wherever his military career takes him. 

“One big thing I have discovered during my time studying with ASU Online, is the kind of leader I really am — a transformational leader,” he said. “For the longest time, I thought being a servant leader was the best I could be, but the organizational leadership classes taught me a lot about myself and opened my eyes to different leadership styles. It was a bit surprising but in a good way. I’ve learned how to inspire and lead in a whole new way.”

But how does he balance family, work and school?

McGowen learned to prioritize his time. To be present for his sons, he focused on his courses after they went to bed or before he had to go to work. Free time was spent doing the things they love to do together, like fishing and hiking. He also had a support system: his wife. 

College is a significant transition for any student, even more so for military students. That’s why the ASU Pat Tillman Veterans Center is available to students and families who have served with resources to help them succeed on their college journey.

“My advice is simple. There will never be a perfect time to start, so just go for it.” McGowen said. “Life’s always busy, especially in the military, so don’t wait for the stars to align. Make sure you have some kind of support system if you can, but the main thing is to just start — apply for classes, talk to an advisor, and dive in. Your military experience will help you out more than you think.”

The center staff includes veterans and current military personnel who help students with their military education benefits. The center also offers programs, events and a place where student veterans can connect with and support each other. 

“I'm really excited about ASU because it’s going to open the door,” McGowen said. “If I do retire from the military, I could start working for nonprofits. I'm on the board of directors for the U.S. Coast Guard Chief Petty Officers Association, and I really enjoy raising money and helping to give it to causes in need.” 

As for what’s next? He’s not quite sure, but for now, McGowen is thankful to be in Vermont, where his family is thriving.

“My boys are in a good school with good friends,” he said. “Being a military family, it can be hard moving every few years. My wife has also made some really great friends here. Everything right now is looking good for me to make E9. If I make E9, that's a pretty big milestone for enlisted folks, so that would be nice. We will just have to wait and see!”

Learn more about the United States Naval Community College and Arizona State University partnership at usncc.asu.edu.