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LCDR Joel D.P. Thomas

Executive Officer, Nuclear Power Training Unit, Ballston Spa, N.Y.

Lieutenant Commander Joel Thomas is a native of Prunedale, CA. He earned a Bachelor’s of Science in Biochemical Engineering from University of California, Davis, a Master’s of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the Naval Postgraduate School, and a Doctor of Philosophy in Chemical Engineering from the University of Minnesota. He commissioned through Officer Candidate School in Newport Rhode Island in September 2014.

At sea, LCDR Thomas has served as the Engineer Officer aboard USS LOUISIANA (BLUE) (SSBN 743) and Assistant Engineer/Quality Assurance Officer/Reactor Control Assistant aboard USS COLUMBUS (SSN 762). During these two tours he deployed to the 7th Fleet Area of Operation and conducted two strategic deterrent patrols.

Ashore, he has served as the Training Officer at the Navy Data Center Detachment Okinawa. He currently serves as the Executive Officer of the Nuclear Power Training Unit Ballston Spa.

His personal awards include the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (3 awards), Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (2 Awards), and various unit commendations.