Minot State University
10/10/2024 | News release | Distributed by Public on 10/10/2024 15:32
Onward: An interview with Adam Calderon
By Veronica Corey
Communications and Marketing Specialist
MINOT, N.D.- This past July, Adam Calderon completed his first year as a finance specialist at the North Dakota Center for Persons with Disabilities (NDCPD).
Currently finishing his final semester as an economics major at Oregon State University, Calderon has greatly expanded his expertise in finance while at Minot State University. With a passion for numbers and statistics, he found his calling in economics after exploring other fields like public relations and sports science.
Originally from La Puente, California, Calderon's journey to the finance world is rooted in a rich and diverse background. In 2012, he enlisted in the United States Air Force as a Security Forces member, where he had the unique honor of managing the dignified transfer program in Kuwait. His military service took him across the globe before eventually bringing him to Minot.
Minot State University Communications caught up with Calderon between his busy schedule of crunching numbers to learn more about his experiences at the NDCPD and his time in Minot.
Can you walk us through your journey from joining the US Air Force to settling in Minot? What were some of the key experiences that shaped your time in the military?
AC: I spent the first part of my life in Southern California. I spent as much time on the beach as I could. I left California in 2012 when I enlisted in the US Air Force as a Security Forces member. I was lucky enough to be stationed in Aviano, Italy, for three years, where I did law enforcement and nuclear security. I spent some time in the Middle East in early 2015 and came to Minot AFB in 2016, where I did missile security. The best and most humbling experience I had while serving was running the dignified transfer program when I was in Kuwait. Ensuring every ceremony, we had for any fallen American coming home went as perfectly as possible. I separated in 2018 and had a few different jobs until getting settled here at MSU.
What does an average day look like in your current role?
AC: Each day can be different. Ranging from processing paperwork with the business office for payroll or contracts to reviewing expenses from any of our ongoing projects.
What initially attracted you to Minot State University, and how did your time here shape your career path?
AC: I'd been working in the finance department for the City of Minot when I saw the job posting for this position at NDCPD. It seemed like a great opportunity to further my experience in the finance world. I've been here since July 2023. It has been really rewarding and taught me a lot about finance and myself as a person.
Can you share a bit about your background and what motivated you to pursue your field of study?
AC: I actually went through a few major changes since separating from the military. I dabbled in public relations and sports science before deciding on economics. While in the Air Force, I did receive some criminal justice credits for going through the Security Forces Academy. I ultimately chose economics because of my fondness for numbers, statistics, and the overall financial world.
Can you describe your career journey after graduating? What were some key turning points or decisions?
AC: I'm just about there, with about one semester left. But I had the chance to step into the finance world over two years ago and learn more than I could've expected.
What skills or experiences do you believe have been most valuable in your professional development?
AC: It's not for everyone, and I didn't think it was for me until I did it, but jumping into the deep end of a new position might be my most valuable experience so far. I had an idea of what I was going to be doing here at NDCPD, but it's so much more than I thought. It's probably the best professional growth I've had.
Can you share a significant lesson learned during your time at MSU or in your career?
AC: I learned that your team is your biggest asset. It was something I'd forgotten since getting out of the military. NDCPD might be the best team I've had the privilege of being a part of as a civilian.
What are your current goals or projects you're excited about in your career?
AC: Just to keep learning. I've met some amazing people here at MSU who have been here for a while, and they've shared that learning never stops.
What do you like to do outside of work: family, hobbies, or other areas of interest?
AC: I have two amazing kids, Leo and Lennox. My little man, Leo, is 5, and his little sister, that he calls "chicken," is 2. My fiancé and I are huge homebodies and frequent the gym, but we like to travel when we can. It's not uncommon for us to stay in on a Friday night watching something scary and building Lego sets after a heavy leg day. I have a chocolate lab named Peanut Butter. When I can, I do some woodworking, write, and play video games when I want to be a couch potato.
What are we missing from your story?
AC: I'm a huge mental health advocate, not just for veterans but for everyone. Everyone has a story, and no person's trauma is greater or lesser than anyone else's. I have some friends I served with, and even though we are all in different states, we still check in on each other. There is nothing wrong with asking for help.
About Minot State University
Minot State University is a public university dedicated to excellence in education, scholarship, and community engagement achieved through rigorous academic experiences, active learning environments, commitment to public service, and a vibrant campus life.
Published: 10/10/24