In this issue, The AFIT Foundation will be recognizing Colonel John Kurian, Deputy Commander for the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center (AFLCMC)! Colonel Kurian graduated from the U.S. Air Force Institute of Technology in 2003 with a MS in Electrical Engineering.

Colonel Kurian initially joined the military because the Air Force offered a four-year ROTC scholarship. He continues to serve because he loves the mission, people, and culture. John is currently serving as the AFLCMC Deputy Commander supporting Lt Gen Shaun Q. Morris.

Colonel Kurian’s favorite memory at AFIT was getting a chance to work with Dr. William Brown (founder of Environmental Research Institute of Michigan (ERIM) and Chief Scientist at AFRL Sensors Directorate – 2001) and presenting a paper on radar waveform design (“Brown Symbols”) at IEEE’s International Radar Conference in Australia. This close collaboration between AFIT and AFRL focused on solving warfighter problems was a very unique and rewarding experience.

AFIT positively impacted Colonel Kurian’s life because it provided a solid technical foundation to help him understand, communicate, and lead a variety of complex development/operational efforts at AFRL, NSA, NRO and AFLCMC. The research experience honed his critical thinking, technical writing, and problem-solving skills. Additionally, Colonel Kurian has continued to leverage relationships developed at AFIT to find talent and tackle pacing challenges.

When asked about advice he would give to those considering entering the military, Colonel Kurian responded, “During my Operational Inherent Resolve (OIR) deployment, our commander Gen Funk used to ask each of us, “WHY do you serve?”. That question stuck with me. Unless the mission, people and culture are compelling, you and your family are not likely to stay long term. Having lived in various parts of the world (including Libya in the mid-80s), part of my WHY includes thankfulness for the opportunities and freedom we enjoy in this nation and the desire to give back in some manner. To whom much is given, much is expected.” Thank you, Colonel Kurian!