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GRAFENWOEHR, GERMANY - Chief Warrant Officer 2 Nathan Shea has a unique journey that led him to join the U.S. Army. As a younger man working in a paint shop, he realized he wanted to do more with his life. He sought what he believed would be a more meaningful and challenging career by pursuing his long-standing interest in aviation. Shea entered the Army in 2012 as a 15W, or unmanned aircraft systems operator.

"I wanted to do something exciting," Shea said. "The Army gave me the opportunity to explore aviation."

Shea seized every opportunity available and became the distinguished graduate at Advanced Individual Training. Upon completing 15W school, he looked for additional training and flight time whenever possible.

In 2015, his achievements led him to become a UAS instructor, transitioning to a full-time instructor role in the active guard reserve for the Pennsylvania Army National Guard.

"Being an instructor allowed me to refine my skills and share what I loved with others," said Shea.

In 2017, Shea took on a new challenge as a standardization instructor operator, training new operators and planning major training exercises. One of his most significant tasks was overseeing and planning annual training. This was accomplished through extraordinary mentorship from one of Shea's colleagues.

Inspired by his mentor, Shea began the process of becoming a warrant officer. "Chief Smith encouraged me to pursue it because of my passion for planning and mission execution," said Shea. By 2018, Shea completed Warrant Officer Commissioning School and the Warrant Officer Basic Course as a 150U, embracing the leadership challenges it presented.

As a newly appointed warrant officer, Shea quickly took on numerous responsibilities, including managing flight operations for multiple brigades as a facility operations officer. He also took the UAS safety course - typically reserved for more senior warrant officers - and led the safety program at the UAS facility. "I was a Warrant Officer 1 in a position usually held by a Warrant Officer 2 or 3," Shea said. It was a challenge he understood and was ready to take on.

In 2023, the National Guard Bureau selected Shea to serve as a regional standardization officer for the northeast region, coordinating UAS operations for surrounding states including Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, Maryland and Virginia, with Pennsylvania serving as the hub of all operations.

Reflecting on his career, Shea encourages future UAS operators to be open and adaptable to change. "The field is constantly evolving," Shea said. "Being comfortable with the high operational tempo and always ready to learn is essential in the UAS world. Embrace change, stay curious and always be ready to adapt."

Shea's career shows the power of dedication and adaptability. From working in a paint shop to leading aviation missions, his journey serves as a testament to his perseverance and leadership. Shea's contributions have set a high standard for future UAS operators within both the United States Army and Pennsylvania Army National Guard and will ensure the program's continued success.

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