Wilbur O. and Ann Powers College of Business

Reflections from a former Clemson Air Force ROTC Instructor

Share:

By Capt. MacKenzie Golka

When I first arrived at Clemson University as an Air Force ROTC instructor in 2022, I didn’t know exactly what to expect. What I found at Clemson was more than a job. It was purpose, connection and a place to call home.

If I’m being quite honest, Clemson was never part of “the plan.” I earned my own commission through Officer Training School in 2016 and began my career as a Nuclear and Missile Operations Officer. I later cross-trained in Public Affairs, a career field I had long aspired to join. That transition opened the door to serve at the Major Command level with Air Force Global Strike Command Public Affairs, and all signs pointed to me continuing a trajectory consistent with my career field. Then 2022 happened.

That year brought personal tragedy with the unexpected passing of my mother. Amid grief and shifting circumstances, my career plans changed. Just as it felt like my world was coming apart, things ever so quietly began to fall into place, and it all started with an unexpected ROTC job listing that appeared in my assignment cycle.

Golka, pictured middle row, at a Military Appreciation Football Game.

I didn’t know it then, but that listing would lead me to a place that I would soon love. As an Auburn alumna, I had often heard Clemson described as a kindred spirit, sharing a similar culture, close-knit community and an infectious school spirit. I decided to reach out to the then-detachment commander, Colonel Jason King. I shared my story with him about my career shifts, the challenges, and most importantly, my desire to shape cadets into not just capable officers, but good and decent human beings. The very next day, he ranked me as his top pick. That affirmation confirmed what I already knew: this was the right place, and the right mission, at the right time.

From day one, my family was welcomed into the Clemson community with open arms. I may not be a Clemson alum, but we were treated like Tigers all the same. The cadre of instructors became our second family, and the cadets were kind, respectful and inspiring, especially to my young son, who looked up to them with awe.

Over the past two and a half years, I’ve had the honor of teaching and mentoring the cadets at Detachment 770, watching them grow into exceptional leaders. I have the utmost confidence in their potential, and I know that the future of our Air Force is in good hands.

These cadets are the kind of people you hope to serve alongside. They are principled, driven and above all else, they lead with both conviction and humility. After Hurricane Helene, countless cadets volunteered their free time to help members of the community clear debris and restore their properties. And that wasn’t an isolated act. Service is ingrained in every fiber of who they are. There isn’t a week that goes by without a group of cadets stepping up to serve the Clemson community in some form or fashion. They don’t do it for recognition or accolades. They do it because they genuinely care.

If I’ve learned anything in my career so far, it’s this: the Air Force demands more than technical expertise. While it’s often associated with aircraft and STEM degrees, the reality is that we need leaders who bring both intellect and empathy to the table. We need officers who can make complex decisions under pressure, but who also understand the human element of leadership. What I’ve seen at Detachment 770 are cadets who embody that balance. They are sharp, capable and deeply compassionate. They care about the mission, but they care just as much about the people who carry it out.

My time at Clemson may be coming to an end, but this experience has shaped my growth and perspective in ways I never could have anticipated. This assignment gave me clarity, confidence and a renewed sense of purpose. Without doubt, I am a better officer, mentor and person for having been here.

To Colonel Kiser, Major Fields, Major DeBerry, Captain Pennell, Captain Evans, Master Sergeant Holden, Staff Sergeant Navarro and Ms. Abbie — thank you for carrying this mission forward with integrity and heart. The detachment is in excellent hands.

To Clemson University — thank you for giving my family exactly what we needed at exactly the right time. Though my duty station may change, the Clemson family will remain an important part of our story.

I have been incredibly honored to serve here, and I’m thankful every day for that privilege.

For more information about Clemson Air Force ROTC, visit their website here.
Want to Discuss?

Get in touch and we will connect you with the author or another expert.

Or email us at news@clemson.edu

    This form is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.