From the Battlefield to Energy Security: A Special Forces Officer’s Journey to a Graduate Degree in Energy and Earth Resources

November 11, 2024

In recognition of Veteran’s Day, we are proud to share the story of one of our Jackson School graduate students who has served in the military. In this interview, Theo Tsirigotis reflects on how his time in service has shaped his approach to his studies. We hope you find Theo’s journey inspiring and appreciate the unique perspective he brings to our community.

An interview with Theo Tsirigotis, MA EER/MBA Candidate, Class of 2026

Can you share a bit about your military history and experience and how it led you to pursue a graduate degree in Energy and Earth Resources (EER)?

My military career began with a commission as an officer into the U.S. Army Infantry from Claremont McKenna College. I served as a Rifle and Scout Platoon Leader, and later in the 75th Ranger Regiment, deploying to Afghanistan in support of Operation Freedom’s Sentinel. After completing the Special Forces Qualification Course, I was appointed as a Detachment Commander in the 10th Special Forces Group in Germany. Leading a team in support of strategic objectives across Eastern Europe, particularly in response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, underscored the crucial link between energy security and national security. This understanding, that a failure to increase diversification of energy sources, particularly renewable energy, poses not only a long-term danger but a short-term risk to the safety of citizens and the integrity of government, motivated me to pursue the M.A. in Energy and Earth Resources and MBA dual degree.

What challenges and opportunities did you face transitioning from military service to academic life?

Thankfully, with programs provided by the military and the support from administrators at The University of Texas at Austin, the transition to academic life was fairly seamless. However, one major challenge was finding individuals with similar interests in the field who could answer questions as I began my application process. More typical post-military routes, like MBA programs, have more established veteran populations to support prospective veteran applicants.  Fortunately, I found current and former students who provided a wealth of advice and support as I narrowed my search and began the transition from military service.

How does the EER program’s emphasis on integrating insights from various disciplines resonate with your military experience, which often requires a broad perspective?

The Energy and Earth Resources degree’s interdisciplinary approach is well-suited to the energy industry and mirrors the broad perspective required in the military. As an Army Special Forces officer, I dealt with complex problems that necessitated a wide-ranging view to support strategic objectives in unique cultural, geopolitical, and resource-constrained environments. The EER program’s focus on technology, policy, and financial intersections feels like a continuation of the problem-solving culture central to my successes in the Special Forces.

Where do you see yourself after graduating from the EER program, and how does your military experience fit into your future aspirations in energy and earth resources?

One of the less well-known challenges of transitioning from military service is the overwhelming number of choices when pursuing a career in the civilian sector. I am particularly interested in enhanced geothermal systems, grid infrastructure security, and improvements in the built environment. My overarching desire is to find a position where I can contribute to solutions for a security-conscious, financially practical, and environmentally sustainable energy transition.

What advice would you give other military veterans considering transitioning to academia, especially in a program like EER?

My biggest suggestion for other veterans considering a transition to academia is to leverage your networks and the multitude of veteran-run transition volunteer services available to research what best matches their interests and passions. A sense of purpose and service is central to the identity of most veterans, and finding that purpose can be difficult at first. I encourage them to consider programs like the Energy and Earth Resources degree, which equip graduates with the tools necessary to address challenges in a dynamic, growing, and vitally important industry.