HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass -- Col. William Curlin, military deputy of the Cyber and Networks Directorate, is retiring this month after 42 years of Air Force service.
Curlin enlisted in 1984 with plans to earn a college degree, gain technical experience and travel the world.
“Over time, I learned more about serving in the Air Force and realized the military way of life was a good fit for me,” he said. “The military offered more than I ever envisioned.”
The dedication and commitment associated with military life resonated with Curlin’s upbringing, leading him to earn a commission from Air Force Officer Training School in 1996.
“As I learned more about serving, I began to view my decision to serve as a way of life, and the impact I could have leading as an officer,” he said.
A Shreveport, Louisiana, native, Curlin previously served five years as the Cyber and Networks’ Special Programs Division senior materiel leader at Hanscom AFB prior to his current position.
“Acquisition as a career aligned with my technical training, business management and information technology degree, noncommissioned officer leadership skills and Officer Training School experience,” he said.
His career began with the opportunity to field a weapons system, broadening his perspective across the Air Force’s acquisition career field.
“From an acquisition perspective, I was fortunate to play a small role in developing several firsts and fielding critical combat capabilities,” said Curlin. “Working to develop the Small Diameter Bomb for the F-22 fighter was a very rewarding experience.”
Curlin said the most fulfilling aspect of his career has been leading Airmen.
“As a commander, I’m most proud of having the opportunity to support others as they achieve their goals and dreams while accomplishing the mission together as a team,” he said.
As his career progressed, Curlin said he recognized his strengths were best applied in supporting roles advocating for people, programs and teams while securing resources.
“As you rise in leadership, you realize the value of your authority is your ability to provide top cover,” he said. “That is the best example of empowerment I know.”
Curlin’s approach to leadership was shaped by the Air Force’s core values of “integrity first, service before self, and excellence in all we do.”
“Never lose sight for how the smallest of details can make the difference between victory or defeat,” he said. “I remind my team that when our crews are flying through a storm, a weather radar can make all the difference between mission accomplishment and mission failure.”
Curlin emphasized that mission success ultimately depends on the people behind the systems.
“Each person brings talents and strengths from our experiences and training,” he said. “Our strength is in teams. It is how we will continue to prevail, and that’s what makes our country great.”
Curlin will retire during a ceremony Feb. 27 at 1 p.m. at the Minuteman Commons. Retired Lt. Gen. Michael Schmidt will officiate the ceremony. All with base access are invited to attend.
In retirement, Curlin plans to spend time hiking and fishing before deciding what to do next.
“I’d love to make my way across the Presidential Traverse, if I can keep up with our three kids on the trail,” he said. “After that, I’ll likely look for opportunities to continue to contribute in meaningful ways, serve a worthy cause and find that next challenge.”
Curlin expressed gratitude for the mentors and leaders who supported him during his career.
“That’s what I’m thankful for,” Curlin said. “It’s been a fun ride.”