CWO3 Joel Smith: Candidate for Vice President of CWOA

I am honored to introduce myself as a candidate for Vice President of the Chief Warrant and Warrant Officers Association (CWOA). With over 22 years of active-duty service and extensive experience in leadership roles, including serving as President of the Juneau and Norfolk Chapters, I am deeply committed to the success and future of our association

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Throughout my career, I have dedicated myself to service, both in uniform and within my local community. Currently stationed at the Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Cyber, and Intelligence Service Center (C5ISC), my responsibilities include Planned Maintenance Analysis, Maintenance Procedure Card Development, and serving as a Contracting Officers Representative. My prior assignments include serving as a Radar and Tactical Systems Technician on CGC FORWARD and CGC DEPENDABLE, as well as holding leadership positions at Electronics Support Detachments (ESD) and Training Centers across the country. As a permanent Cutterman, I take great pride in my seagoing experience and the leadership lessons learned from those tours.


My passion for mentorship and professional development is reflected in my certifications in Instructor Development, Course Development, Master Training Specialist, Program and Project Management, and Life Cycle Logistics. I am a graduate of the Coast Guard Chief Petty Officer’s Academy (Class 227), where I was honored with the Spirit of the Chief Award, and I have also completed the Chief Warrant Officer Professional Development (CWOPD) course. These experiences have reinforced my belief in the importance of fostering an engaged and forward-thinking community within the CWOA.

“Why I Am Running for Vice President”

I am running for Vice President because I believe in the strength of our association and the power of impactful initiatives to grow our membership. As a lifelong member of the CWOA, I have seen the positive changes that dedicated leadership can bring, and I am eager to contribute to our continued growth and success. In this role, I will:

✅ Uphold the mission and values of the CWOA, ensuring that we remain an organization dedicated to the professional advancement of our members.

✅ Lead the Membership Committee, working diligently to expand our reach and increase engagement among active-duty, reserve, and retired members.

✅ Support the President and Board of Directors, ensuring our association remains strong, transparent, and mission-focused.

✅ Advocate for our members' interests, addressing their needs and concerns while fostering a sense of unity and purpose.

In addition to my commitment to the Coast Guard, I am actively engaged in my local community, serving as Vice President of my Civic Association and supporting the Virginia Beach 3rd Precinct Citizens Advisory Committee. These roles have reinforced my ability to build coalitions, foster engagement, and create lasting impact—skills that I will bring to the CWOA as Vice President.

Looking Ahead

If elected, I will work collaboratively with the Board of Directors and our membership to develop strategic plans that address the evolving needs of our association. By organizing impactful programs, events, and outreach efforts, I aim to enhance member participation and satisfaction. I am also committed to ensuring transparent communication and fostering a vibrant, inclusive, and engaged membership community.

I appreciate the nomination and the opportunity to serve. I look forward to engaging with each of you in the coming weeks and, if elected, working together to strengthen the CWOA for years to come.

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