10 Within 10 Recognition
Steve Poe '07
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College: College of Education and Human Services
Job title and employer: Chief of managed care and patient administration, U.S. Air Force in Ramstein, Germany
What has been your coolest moment since graduation?
My coolest — and scariest — the moment was going great white shark cage diving in South Africa last year with my family. To see a great white shark on TV is one thing; to be face-to-face with one is another.
What are you proudest of?
The first is my kids. Even at 4 years old (I have boy/girl twins), they do things that make me so proud as a father. The second is my wife, Nichole. Being a military spouse is not easy. Picking up and moving every few years, sometimes twice a year, and across the world is tough for anybody. Not only does she do it, but she also embraces it.
What advice would you give to new graduates?
I keep a small note taped just below my computer in my office that simply reads, “When You Die, Die On ‘E.’?” That’s it. Have no regrets; leave nothing left.
What has your work life taught you?
Lots. I’ll keep it to three: 1) You cannot effectively lead an organization from behind your desk. I’ve seen leaders try; they’ve all failed. 2) A good leader will know all their folks’ names and a lot about them. A great leader will know their spouses’ and kids’ names and a bit about them. 3) Surround yourself with people smarter than you. Then give them the credit.
If you could do anything right now, what would you do?
I’d be sitting in Congress. I’m passionate about leadership and implementing common-sense change. We need more of it.
10 years of 10 within 10 - 2023 update
Current city and state: San Angelo, TX
Current job title and employer: Chief Operating Officer (Ross Medical Group) at United States Air Force
What is happening in your life today that you didn't expect when you were named one of the 10 within 10?
Since being named one of the 10 within 10, things have come full circle. Nearly 12 years later, I am now back at the same United States Air Force Base Medical Group where I started my military career (and where my kids were born), now serving as the Chief Operating Officer on the Executive Staff. Goodfellow Air Force Base was one of my favorite assignments, so the opportunity to come back and lead in a larger capacity was a dream come true. I've recently been promoted to Lieutenant Colonel and have been selected to take command next summer of the Medical Support Squadron at the 87th Medical Group at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst in New Jersey.
When you think of CMU today, what word comes to mind?
Blast! By far, the best four years of my life were spent at CMU. The friends, opportunities, and experiences I had were unrivaled.