Born and raised in Houston, Texas, Erick's unwavering sense of duty and commitment to serving his country led him to make a pivotal decision after graduating high school in 2011. He bravely chose to answer the call of duty and enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps, embarking on a transformative journey that would shape his character and instill in him the values of discipline, leadership, and selflessness. During his service, he deployed to Afghanistan and participated in Operation Enduring Freedom with the 1st Battalion 8th Marine Regiment in 2012. He would also later deploy with the 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion for a task force deployment in Spain. On both deployments, he showcased his ability to adapt quickly to dynamic environments and demonstrated outstanding problem-solving capabilities, earning the respect of his comrades and superiors alike. Through his military service, Erick not only honed his professional skills but also cultivated a deep sense of camaraderie and an unbreakable bond with his fellow Marines. His experiences taught him the value of teamwork, resilience, and adaptability in the face of adversity. After military service, Erick would go on and excel in academia, earning an Undergraduate degree in Criminal Justice with honors from Sam Houston State University. Eager to broaden his horizons and gain a global perspective, Erick embarked on an enriching journey abroad to England to pursue his passion for global affairs by obtaining a master’s degree in International Affairs and Relations from the esteemed University of Manchester. This academic endeavor allowed him to explore complex geopolitical issues, cultivate cross-cultural awareness, and fine-tune his analytical prowess, all of which he is now eager to apply to the policymaking process. Motivated by a desire to continue serving his country, Erick aspires to make a lasting impact on global security and international cooperation, leveraging his military background and academic expertise to shape effective policies. As a HillVets Fellow, Erick envisions bridging his military background, academic acumen, and adventurous spirit to contribute meaningfully to shaping policies that promote national security and foster collaborative international relationships. He is pursuing a career that focuses on issues concerning national security and international affairs. Beyond his professional pursuits, Erick is an avid outdoorsman, finding solace and inspiration in nature. Whether camping under the stars or hiking in the majestic mountains, he cherishes the lessons of perseverance and humility that the wilderness imparts. Furthermore, he is a passionate globetrotter, having traversed over 30 countries, immersing himself in diverse cultures and fostering an unshakable appreciation for the interconnectedness of the world.

William Cano recently graduated from the University of Georgia, where he earned a Bachelor's degree in International Affairs from the School of Public and International Affairs. Raised in the United States but born in Puebla, Mexico, William has a unique perspective on North and South American cultures, which he has further developed through his travels to multiple countries in the region. After completing high school, William enlisted in the United States Army and served for four years with the 82nd Airborne Division, including participating in Operation Faithful Patriot. For his dedication and hard work during the mission, William was awarded an Army Commendation Medal. William remained committed to public service and community involvement throughout his undergraduate studies. He joined AIESEC UGA, where he coordinated volunteer opportunities in Spanish and Portuguese for AIESEC Ecuador and Brazil, respectively. William was also selected as a Chambliss Leadership Fellow, recognizing students who have demonstrated a commitment to public service and leadership. Now, William is a Master of Arts in International Affairs: Global Governance, Politics, and Security candidate at American University's School of International Service. He also serves as a civil affairs specialist in the Army Reserves with the 360th Civil Affairs Brigade, conducting comprehensive country studies and contributing to the unit's civil affairs database. In addition, William has provided editorial and research assistance to the American Foreign Policy Council, where he conducted foreign policy research and logistical support for Ukraine delegations in Washington, D.C. He looks forward to deepening his knowledge of international affairs and contributing to global development and diplomacy.

Kevin’s unique background shaped his passion for national security studies and international relations. Born in Medellin, Colombia, Kevin emigrated to the United States with his parents at the age of six, settling down near Boise, Idaho, in the early 2000s. With a deep interest in national security from an early age, Kevin's experiences as an immigrant from a conflict-affected country motivated him to join the United States Marine Corps. As an 0352, Anti-Tank Missile Gunner (2016-2020), Kevin participated in two Unit Deployment Programs to the Indo-Pacific. During these deployments, Kevin's unit engaged in multinational training exercises, including Cobra Gold, where he was meritoriously promoted to Sergeant. While on active duty, Kevin attended professional military education courses and leadership courses, including the Advanced Anti-Tank Missile Gunner’s Course aboard Camp Pendleton, California’s Advanced Infantry Training Battalion where he graduated as the “Gung-Ho” recipient: An award presented by the instructors, but voted on by his peers for demonstrating the utmost mental and physical discipline, while exuding unrelenting motivation. Kevin’s interest in international affairs and security studies was shaped by his service. He chose to focus his studies on counter-terrorism, preventing violent extremism, and political radicalization. While balancing his military commitments, Kevin commenced his education at Boise State University in 2019, enrolling in and attending online classes while still on active- duty. He eventually attended classes on campus in Boise, Idaho after completing his active-duty service. Determined to get the most out of his time at Boise State University, Kevin undertook an accelerated M.A. in Political Science during his undergraduate senior year, earning dual credits that contributed to both his B.S. and postgraduate M.A. degrees. He graduated Magna Cum Laude with a B.S. in Political Science, emphasizing International Relations and Comparative Politics, in May of 2022. Building upon this foundation, Kevin achieved another milestone in May of 2023, completing his M.A. in Political Science. Now, Kevin is poised to continue his academic journey as an incoming Master of Public Administration candidate at The George Washington University in Washington D.C. in Fall of 2023. His studies will explore the intricate relationship between economic-political institutions and violent extremism, while also gaining the skills and experience necessary to operate within fast-paced administrative environments. Driven by a genuine commitment to making a positive impact in national and international security, Kevin aspires to contribute to the development and implementation of innovative U.S. federal policies. His vision encompasses creative approaches that blend and leverage political- economic development, public-private partnerships, civil society participation, and counter- terrorism measures that increase the resilience of at-risk communities, while hampering the reach and impact of extremist organizations. Outside of work and school, Kevin enjoys exploring the beautiful scenery our Nation has to offer, watching the New Orleans Saints football team dominate the NFL, and spending time with family and friends (preferably in nature).

Nancy Springer graduated from the U. S. Naval Academy and was commissioned into the U. S. Marine Corps in May 1987. Holding both the logistics and motor transport officer military occupational specialties, she served in various motor transport and logistics positions in both the operating forces and supporting establishment. Peacetime duty assignments included Virginia, North and South Carolina, California, Missouri, Hawaii, and Okinawa, Japan. Combat service included Operation Desert Storm (Saudi Arabia), Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom (Afghanistan and Bahrain). After her Marine Corps retirement in 2017, Nancy settled in Arlington, VA, worked as a defense contractor and joined several civic and service organizations. Her volunteer work includes Past Commander (2021-2022) and Life Member, John Lyon Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3150; Vice President, Arlington Ridge Civic Association (2019-2021); Board Member, FairVote Virginia (2020-2023), Member, Arlington & Alexandria City League of Women Voters (2022-present), and Past President and Chapter Secretary, Quantico Area Chapter, U. S. Naval Academy Alumni Association (2017-present). She has a Master’s degree in National Resource Strategy from the Industrial College of the Armed Forces (re-named Eisenhower School for National Security and Resource Strategy) and a Master’s degree in International Relations from Webster University. In her spare time, Nancy likes to run and see new places. She is an avid traveler who has visited 48 of the 50 states and several foreign countries.

Tyler is originally from Jackson, Mississippi and joined the Air Force months after graduating high school in 2015. For six years, Tyler served as a firefighter and was stationed at Joint Based Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage, Alaska and Seymour-Johnson Air Force Base in Goldsboro, North Carolina. Being both a service member and firefighter initiated Tyler’s dedication to public service. It was during this time Tyler earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science & Government from the University of Arizona Global Campus. Upon leaving the service, Tyler started his International Relations Master’s program at the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies, where he spent his first year abroad in Bologna, Italy and second year here in DC. His studies focused on national security, defense, US foreign policy, and the Middle East. Looking to build upon his studies, Tyler is pursuing a career on Capitol Hill that focuses on issues concerning national security and foreign affairs. Outside of his professional life, Tyler is an avid drummer as well as a licensed DC tour guide.

Nancy Springer graduated from the U. S. Naval Academy and was commissioned into the U. S. Marine Corps in May 1987. Holding both the logistics and motor transport officer military occupational specialties, she served in various motor transport and logistics positions in both the operating forces and supporting establishment. Peacetime duty assignments included Virginia, North and South Carolina, California, Missouri, Hawaii, and Okinawa, Japan. Combat service included Operation Desert Storm (Saudi Arabia), Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom (Afghanistan and Bahrain). After her Marine Corps retirement in 2017, Nancy settled in Arlington, VA, worked as a defense contractor and joined several civic and service organizations. Her volunteer work includes Past Commander (2021-2022) and Life Member, John Lyon Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3150; Vice President, Arlington Ridge Civic Association (2019-2021); Board Member, FairVote Virginia (2020-2023), Member, Arlington & Alexandria City League of Women Voters (2022-present), and Past President and Chapter Secretary, Quantico Area Chapter, U. S. Naval Academy Alumni Association (2017-present). She has a Master’s degree in National Resource Strategy from the Industrial College of the Armed Forces (re-named Eisenhower School for National Security and Resource Strategy) and a Master’s degree in International Relations from Webster University. In her spare time, Nancy likes to run and see new places. She is an avid traveler who has visited 48 of the 50 states and several foreign countries.

SSgt Jeremy Boutwell, USMC (ret) was born and raised in Seguin, Texas. He attended Seguin High school where he was active in the Naval Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps and National Honor Society. He graduated in 2003. Jeremy fulfilled his lifelong dream at the age of 17 when he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 2002. He graduated as Platoon Honor man from Platoon 2003 Fox Company, 2nd Battalion, Recruit Training Regiment, San Diego, California in September of 2003. He was trained as a machine gunner at School of Infantry West, Camp Pendleton, California. Following graduation from Infantry Training Battalion, he reported to MCAGCC 29 Palms, California for duty with Weapons Company, 3rd Bn, 7th Marines. Private first Class Boutwell immediately began training with his battalion for deployment to Iraq. During this time he was promoted to lead gunner in his Combined Anti-Armor Team, and the battalion deployed to Iraq in January 2004 to conduct counter insurgency operations on the Iraq-Syrian border. During deployment, he was promoted to Lance Corporal, and he was wounded by an Improvised Explosive Device while conducting a mounted combat patrol on March 14, 2004 in the town of Husaybah, Iraq. Jeremy was medically evacuated out of theatre due to severe wounds to his face and legs. After undergoing multiple reconstructive surgeries in Bethesda, Maryland, he was transferred to San Antonio, Texas for follow-up surgeries and rehabilitation. He was assigned to the Marine Corps Detachment, Lackland AFB in June 2004. His orders were to relax and complete his medical care. He had higher aspirations for himself however, and he spent the next two years training Marines, Soldiers, Sailors, and Air Force Officers in basic and advanced infantry skills. He was promoted to Corporal in August 2005. After being found unfit for duty by a medical board in 2005, Jeremy fought the decision of HQMC, and he was proud to be the first Marine to remain on active duty and reenlist under the Extended Permanent Limited Duty Program for combat wounded Marines in December 2006. In January 2007, he reported into 2nd Marine Division to execute a lateral move to the intelligence specialist field. During this time he worked on the 8th Marines Regimental staff, and completed the Marine Corps Air Ground Intelligence Specialist entry level course where he graduated as the Distinguished Graduate. In June 2007, he reported into 1st Battalion 9th Marines for duty as intelligence chief. He was promoted to Sergeant in July 2007. During the next 3.5 years he proudly served with “The Walking Dead” and completed a deployment to Iraq in 2008, and a deployment on the 24th MEU in 2010. His proudest accomplishments during this tour include selecting and training his battalion’s Company Level Intelligence Cells, serving as the battalion targeting officer in Iraq, and serving as chief instructor for several Corporals course cycles aboard the U.S.S. Nassau. He was promoted to Staff Sergeant in Djibouti, Africa in May 2010. In September 2010, Staff Sergeant Boutwell reported to Wounded Warrior Battalion East aboard Camp Lejeune, North Carolina for duty as section leader and platoon commander. During this tour he helped dozens of combat wounded Marines navigate the physical evaluation board process, and helped them transition out of the active duty Marine Corps. He also completed an internship with the National Security Agency in San Antonio, Texas. Jeremy retired from active duty on 31 July 2012. In August of 2013, Mr. Boutwell was hired by Homeland Security Investigations to conduct digital forensic exams as a member of the Human Exploitation Rescue Operative (HERO) Corps program. Over the next 5 years he served HSI in Atlanta, San Antonio, and Washington, D.C. In March of 2019, Mr. Boutwell joined the Department of Homeland Security Homeland Identities, Targeting, and Exploitation Center (HITEC) where he supported law enforcement and counterintelligence operations with digital forensic extractions and analysis. For the last three years he has led a team of 25+ people conducting technical exploitation and digital forensics for the U.S. Intelligence Community, participating in several deployments overseas and strengthening foreign partnerships. Mr. Boutwell has a Bachelor’s degree in public management from Texas State University, and a Master of Arts degree in international relations from St. Mary’s University. His hobbies include reading, running, hiking, hunting, fishing, traveling and shooting.

Born and raised in Baxter, Tennessee, Nicholas Rodriguez has demonstrated an unwavering dedication to service throughout his military career. After completing a rigorous course of study at the United States Air Force Academy in 2018, Nicholas commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the United States Army, ready to take on new challenges and contribute to the nation's defense. Upon joining the renowned 82nd Airborne Division, Nicholas quickly adapted to various roles and responsibilities. He was deployed to Afghanistan, where he served as a Fire Support Officer for nine months. During this deployment, Nicholas was responsible for the coordination of joint fires and close air support, working closely with both air and ground forces. This experience provided him with invaluable insights into the complexities of modern warfare and the challenges facing military personnel on the ground. Upon returning home, Nicholas continued to advance his military career by taking on leadership roles as a Platoon Leader, Executive Officer, and Operations Officer. In these positions, Nicholas honed his skills in planning, personnel management, and operational execution. These diverse experiences have given him a well-rounded understanding of the various facets of military life and the broader defense community. Outside of his professional pursuits, Nicholas is deeply committed to his family. As a loving spouse and father to two daughters, Nicholas understands firsthand the unique challenges and sacrifices faced by military families. This personal connection fuels his desire to create a positive impact on the lives of veterans and their loved ones. As a HillVets Fellow, Nicholas is eager to contribute his background and expertise to the policymaking process, advocating for legislation and policies that address the needs of veterans and military families. He hopes to use this opportunity to foster meaningful change and improve the quality of life for those who have served and continue to serve their country.

Erica Catterall is a Commander in the Navy Reserve and a 2003 graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy. As a Surface Warfare Officer, she has completed various positions, ranging from command and control for multinational exercises, international cooperative engagement programs, and continuity of operations planning. In response to the COVID-19 Pandemic, she served on the COVID Coordination Cell to track the impact of the virus across the Navy and advise Navy leadership on policy execution. Erica has served in leadership positions throughout her time in the Navy, managing high-performing teams of 15-300 personnel. As a civilian, Erica has worked for over ten years as a teacher where she educated High School students in Mathematics and gained a strong understanding of the impact of various education policies and approaches to the administration on students. Due to multiple moves for her spouse’s military obligations, Erica was exposed to a wide array of policies and dynamics. When not teaching in schools, Erica provided a home school education to her two daughters. Erica was raised in San Diego, California, and obtained a B.S. in Mathematics from the U. S. Naval Academy. She continued her education by earning an M.A. in Education from the University of Phoenix and is currently completing a second M.A. at the University of San Francisco while studying Public Leadership. Possessing a passion for education and national defense policy matters, Erica has boldly decided to pursue her interest in Capitol Hill, believing that her unique personal experience as a veteran, educator, mother, and military spouse can lead to better-informed policymaking at the federal level.

Travis Nielsen is a major in the Army Reserve with 17 years of experience combined in the Army National Guard and Army Reserve. Though a logistics officer by trade, he has completed a breadth of assignments, including platoon leadership and company command, battalion and brigade logistics and training, strategic planning, and security cooperation. He deployed to Kosovo for KFOR22 in support of Operation Joint Guardian, Jordan in support of Central Command’s Operation Inherent Resolve and Operation Spartan Shied, and Romania for the Office of Defense Cooperation under European Command and US Embassy missions. Travis was raised in Reno, Nevada, where he received a B.A. in History and Spanish at the University of Nevada-Reno. He also received an M.A. in History from the University of Arizona and an M.A. in International Relations from Webster University. He has been an adjunct history professor for ten years. Travis’s interest in Capitol Hill stems from his passion for public service, team- and consensus- building, and leadership. He strongly believes in using his energy and skills towards the greater good, developing others, and making long-term, positive impact.

Jensen Cheong is a former active-duty Air Force Captain with over seven years of experience leading complex and competent teams. He is a Mission Commander certified Air Battle Manager with hundreds of flying hours on the E-3 AWACS and the Control and Reporting Center (CRC). He has deployed three times in support of national objectives in the Middle East and in response to the Ukrainian Crisis in Eastern Europe. Jensen is also an avid language enthusiast, and he has represented the Air Force globally in an official capacity due to his unique language abilities. Jensen is passionate about public service, policy, and national security. He is committed to leadership and mentorship through effective team-building, individual empowerment, and commitment towards constant improvement. He is a leader in diversity training and an advocate for mental health awareness. Prior to his military career, Jensen was involved in community engagement, social activism, and event planning. As a result, Jensen excels in bringing different stakeholders together to develop efficient and successful teams. Jensen is originally from New York City. He completed his undergraduate education in urban and regional studies at Cornell University. He was commissioned into the Air Force from ROTC at Cornell. He subsequently completed his graduate education in global affairs at the University of Oklahoma. He is a proud volunteer for veterans seeking assistance in the college admissions process.

Doson is a retired Army Medical Sergeant and a Veteran of Operation Enduring Freedom. Born abroad in Hanoi, Vietnam, to a U.S. Army Physician, and whose grandfather served during the first World War, Doson comes from a proud line of military service to our country. Upon returning to the United States, his family settled in the western Great Plains of rural North Dakota, where before graduating high school, he would enlist in the Army National Guard as a Combat Medic. Doson excelled in Basic Training and AIT, where he served as a platoon leader and would go on to receive awards for superior performance in marksmanship, physical training, combatives, and Soldier of the Quarter competitions. Upon graduating medic school in Fort Sam Houston, Texas, Doson was assigned to the 814th Area Support Medical Company (ASMC) in Bismarck, North Dakota. It was with these soldiers that he would deploy to Bagram Airfield at the beginning of 2014. The ASMC was tasked with the evacuation and intervening medical care of all casualties sustained within Regional Command East, Afghanistan. Doson and his team, operating 24-hour shifts out of Craig Joint Theater Hospital, responded by ground ambulance to administer life-saving interventions to NATO, ISAF, civilian, and enemy combatant casualties alike, delivering them from point-of-injury to definitive care. After deployment, Doson was promoted to the rank of Sergeant and transferred to the 1-188th Air Defense Artillery Regiment, where he took charge of the unit’s medical section and assumed responsibility for the management, training, safety, welfare, professional development, and combat readiness of up to fifteen soldier-medics. In addition, he acted to ensure the health and force readiness of the unit, battalion, and state by providing Combat Lifesaver trainings and administering annual flu vaccinations. In the fall of 2018, Doson retired from the Army National Guard having earned two post-secondary degrees, including an A.S. in Health Science, and a B.S. in Pre-Medical Biology with a Minor in Chemistry. Doson began his Juris Doctor in the fall of 2019 on a full academic scholarship and has since passed the USPTO Patent Registration Examination for Patent Attorneys and Patent Agents, completed a Judicial Externship at the United States Court of Federal Claims, and helped to establish a medical technology startup accelerator. Looking ahead, Doson recently got married, and he intends to continue serving our country by representing the policy interests of his fellow veterans and countrymen as a HillVets House Fellow in the United States Congress.