PANAMA CITY, Fla. –
Morris Jarmon Jr., an electrical engineer at Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division (NSWC PCD), embodies the spirit of mentorship and innovation that is crucial to the U.S. Navy's success. His journey spans more than two decades from a contractor supporting the Air Force and Navy to his present role highlights a deep-seated passion for problem-solving and a commitment to nurturing the next generation of naval talent.
Jarmon's path to NSWC PCD was paved with a dynamic educational background, including bachelor’s degrees in mathematics and physics from the University of West Florida, and master’s degrees in electrical and biomedical engineering from Florida Atlantic University. This extensive knowledge base has been instrumental in his work on critical projects such as Quickstrike Mining and in-service mines, which serve as strategic tools for maritime control, tactical deterrence, and force protection in modern naval warfare.
However, Jarmon's contributions extend far beyond his technical expertise. He has also taught a diverse set of science and technology courses at Gulf Coast State College for more than 27 years and is a dedicated mentor, guiding his colleagues on various projects and fostering an environment of growth.
"I contribute by collaborating on solutions, prototyping, documenting, focusing on the end goals, and providing mentorship, whether it’s technical problem-solving or supporting team growth and innovation through feedback and training," said Jarmon. This dedication to mentorship is a cornerstone of his professional philosophy, which he sees as vital for the "absolute success of missions."
NSWC PCD actively promotes this culture through a variety of programs and initiatives aimed at the professional development of its workforce. Programs, such as the WayPoint Mentoring program and the Naval Research Enterprise Internship Program, are designed to "Enable, Encourage, and Empower Success," as the command's workforce development team's motto states, and he is a major user of these training programs and service because “the support is excellent.”
“The mentor is an experienced person sharing wisdom to help a less experienced one, the mentee, develop skills, reach potential, and navigate challenges, creating a trusted relationship that benefits both by fostering future leaders, encouraging new perspectives, and building valuable lasting connections,” he said.
For Jarmon, this powerful tool is vital for knowledge transfer, talent retention, and an innovative workforce.
"Mentorship is guidance, growth, support, and yes, you can do this, support. As leaders and subject-matter experts, the ‘been there, done that’ can be an all-to-familiar go to phrase and the school of hard knocks is a costly way to learn and gain experience,” said Jarmon. “At a minimum, a lack of knowledge, experience or attention to detail can result in monetary, time, and productivity losses, and in extreme cases, can result in the loss of valuable lives. Mentorship maintains the long-term integrity of the mission and the well-being of the fleet and the warfighter.”
By sharing their experience and wisdom, mentors like Jarmon, are not only guiding their mentees to success but are also strengthening the very foundation of the U.S. Navy, ensuring it remains a formidable force for generations to come.