Desmond Walker '20

Commander Desmond Walker, Central Michigan University graduate, has been selected for “Career Achievement in Government Award” for the 2022 Black Engineer of the Year Award STEM Conference.

Walker joined the Navy 25 years ago after attending Simmons High School and in 1996 graduating from Mississippi School for Mathematics and Science.

“Although I felt prepared for college, I did not know what I really wanted to do and the Navy provided a great opportunity,” said Walker.

After a few years of service, Walker went on to earn a B.S. in electronics technology from Norfolk State University in 2005, a Master of Engineering Management form Old Dominion University in 2012, and in 2020 earned a Master of Business Administration from Central Michigan University.

“I went into a field that interested me with a good salary, excellent benefits and job security,” said Walker.

Today, Walker is a prospective executive officer of USS Bainbridge.

“I’m in the prospective commanding officers training pipeline for Surface Warfare Officers,” said Walker. “My next command is the USS Bainbridge, where I will first report as the executive officer. The best part of this opportunity is that I will get to work with some of the finest Americans that made military service their career of choice. Under the leadership of the current commanding officer, I look forward to embracing their vision toward effectively and efficiently executing the ship’s mission at home and abroad.”

Founded in 1986, the Black Engineer of the Year Awards (BEYA) is a globally recognized event that celebrates the achievements of people who are underrepresented in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields. Each year, the BEYA Conference brings professionals and students together for three days. The goal is to create connections between students, educators and professionals while facilitating partnerships with individuals and their local STEM resources.

Serving in the Navy means Walker is part of a team that is taking on new importance in America’s focus on rebuilding military readiness, strengthening alliances and reforming business practices in support of the National Defense Strategy.

While there are many opportunities for sailors to earn recognition in their command, community and careers, Walker is most proud of having a supportive family.

“I have had a great career while maintaining a loving and supportive family dynamic,” said Walker. “After 24 years of marriage, through the highs and the lows, we have faced every challenge together and I’m grateful. Being selected for command was another proud moment. When I enlisted, I planned to serve on one ship and learn a trade. Now, I’m on the cusp of commanding my own ship. I’m also proud of the mentorship awards I received as a life member of the National Naval Officers Association. They reflect the time and effort I invested in mentoring and coaching other officers and sailors to be better versions of themselves, whether they ‘stay Navy’ long-term or decide to separate from service after their obligation. I want to help people achieve the goals they set for themselves, not to achieve goals that others think they should have.”

As a member of the U.S. Navy, Walker, as well as other sailors, know they are a part of a service tradition providing unforgettable experiences through leadership development, world affairs and humanitarian assistance. Their efforts will have a lasting effect around the globe and for generations of sailors who will follow.

“At this point in my career, serving in the Navy means I have the opportunity to be an example of leadership for the officers and sailors that are coming up the ranks behind me.” added Walker. “I did not see a lot of black officers when I was enlisted, but I believed it was possible. Now, as a senior officer, I’m in a position to help anyone, regardless of their demographic, become the best version of themselves as part of the world’s greatest Navy.”