Jonathan Channell
Jonathan Channell arrived at Tennessee Tech University with dreams of space exploration, majoring in mechanical engineering as a stepping-stone to a future in space. However, after joining the Navy, he discovered a deep passion for military service.
“My grandfathers were proud members of the Greatest Generation and veterans of World War II,” he said. “I loved to listen to their stories and was inspired to honor their legacy. I had no idea that I’d become a veteran 25 years and eight months later.”
Channell chose Tennessee Tech for the scholarships, affordable tuition and high-quality education, he says. However, he found much more than a degree — he found a second family.
“I developed relationships with great people from all over the world,” Channell said. “I was not a Monday through Friday student. Campus was my home. The international student cadre were kind, curious and committed – and always on campus. We had some wonderful times together.”
After graduating in 1998, Channell began his Navy career at Officer Candidate School, earning his commission as an ensign in December of the same year. He quickly progressed, earning his Wings of Gold in 2001 and qualifying to fly the F/A-18 Hornet in 2002. Over his career, Channell accumulated 2,855 flight hours, 455 carrier landings and 1,000 hours as a T-34 flight instructor. His service included five combat deployments and leadership roles, such as commanding officer of the Navy Recruiting District Pittsburgh.
“My favorite part of my job was connecting with and having a direct, positive impact in the lives of my Sailors,” Cannell said. “And knowing that my Sailors were always there for me, even when I did not know that I needed them. It is very difficult for me to describe the awesome power of mutual trust and respect that is so strong, we’d sacrifice our lives for each other.”
Channell’s career was filled with rewarding moments: the pride in his father’s eyes whenever he shared a Navy story, the gratitude of civilians, receiving a Navy sword from his wife during his promotion to lieutenant commander, celebrating the successes of his Sailors, safe landings on the aircraft carrier.
“There was also the indescribable sensation of touching land for the first time in 206 days, culminating a three-year tour as Air Officer on USS Dwight D. Eisenhower – without question the most demanding assignment of my Navy career,” Channell recalled.
Even though Channell did not go into space as he first envisioned, he found his engineering background invaluable in his naval career, particularly in understanding aerodynamics and working with cutting-edge technologies.
“In order to protect and implement the technology, I had to understand it. I relied heavily on my mechanical engineering background,” he said. “While I am unable to disclose details, I am very pleased to share that the U.S. military continues to field the most advanced technology on the planet – things that make one proud to be an American.”
Channell retired from the Navy this year in Virginia and is transitioning to civilian life with his wife Angela, as they approach their 25th wedding anniversary this December. They have two sons, Braxton, a pharmacy technician, and Branham, who is in the process of joining a leading aerospace company.
To those just starting out in their careers, he offers this advice: prioritize mental health, create your own opportunities and never stop learning.
“Someone once told me, ‘You graduate with a few basics…and then the real learning begins.’ Looking back, there’s wisdom in that declaration,” Channell said. “I’d add that the learning never stops. Twenty-six years after earning a B.S., I’m still learning new things every day.”
