Sunday, February 22, 2009
Eric Moffat employs business skills as ROTC detachment commander
 Skills in teamwork and leadership are two of the most sought-after qualities in the business world. Economics and finance major Eric Moffat puts those same skills to work as detachment commander for the University of Southern Indiana’s Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC).“There’s a strong correlation between the business core and the skills needed in the military,” Moffat said. “The problem-solving and analytical skills taught in the College of Business really pair up well with ROTC training.” Cadet Major Moffat, a senior, was elevated to the post of commander in January. He previously served as training and operations leader for the USI ROTC program, which has 45 cadets. Major Nathaniel Skelley, commanding officer and assistant professor of military science for USI, said the cadet commander works closely with ROTC instructors to facilitate cadet training and ensure discipline. He serves as a mentor to junior cadets. ROTC focuses on the scholar/athlete/leader. “That’s what we expect cadets to be,” Moffat said. “Physical fitness is important, but this is also a leadership program.” He defines a good leader as an individual who can make decisions, show confidence, and communicate clearly so everyone understands the plan and the expectations. A leader is willing to work with people and has patience. An Army brat, Moffat was born in Germany and grew up in upstate New York and Michigan. He earned an associate degree at Grand Rapids Community College in Michigan and served in the National Guard there. He relocated to Evansville and enrolled at USI in fall 2006 after returning from a 12-month tour in Iraq with his Michigan guard unit. His experience in Operation Iraqi Freedom took him to the Anbar province, where he served as a forward observer for the infantry unit before shifting into information operations. He dealt with local leaders as well as people on the street, helping to assess concerns and identify needs related to infrastructure and security. “It was definitely a hands-on experience in learning to understand them [Iraqis] and their culture,” he said. In Evansville, Moffat drills with the 163rd Field Artillery Unit of the Indiana National Guard. Upon graduation in May, he will become a finance officer for the 138th Finance Battalion, based in Indianapolis. In addition, he will seek civilian employment as a financial analyst. Moffat said ROTC is a challenging and rewarding program with many benefits, including help with college costs. Though the ROTC program is time-consuming for a student balancing a full load of classes and other commitments, it teaches discipline that helps with time management. “I enjoy the esprit de corps and relationships that come from being in an organization like this,” he said. In July, Moffat will take on yet another leadership role — parenting. He and his wife Jennifer, a special education teacher at North High School in Evansville, are expecting their first child. Betty Vawter News & Information Services 812/465-7050 |
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