Aaron Gilson-Bond
Mechanical Engineering, Class of 2026
From Midwest City, OK
Take the leap, but do so with an understanding of the commitment. Joining the military or ROTC while attending a university like OU provides incredible opportunities for personal growth, leadership development, and career advancement. My advice is to talk to current ROTC students, ask about their experiences, and think about your long-term goals. Be ready to embrace challenges—they’ll shape you into a better version of yourself.
As a part of the Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps (NROTC) at the University of Oklahoma, Aaron Gilson-Bond has used his passion for engineering and service to his country to propel his professional goals forward.
“I developed a deep appreciation for the Navy’s impact, especially from an engineering perspective,” Aaron said. “I thrive on staying busy, so I sought opportunities that were both meaningful and challenging.”
When Aaron discovered the Naval Research Enterprise Internship Program, a program that places college students in Navy laboratories to conduct research for ten weeks over the summer, he knew he found the perfect opportunity to use his academic and Navy background.
“This internship allowed me to apply my studies in a real-world setting while furthering my commitment to serving in the Navy after college,” Aaron said.
During his internship, he focused on troubleshooting cabin pressure issues in support aircraft. This experience allowed him to gain hands-on experience with nondestructive inspections and engine tests.
“I worked on systems that I was just beginning to study in my courses at OU,” Aaron said. “Presenting findings to engineers and collaborating with other interns showed me the importance of clear communication and teamwork. The experience was incredibly rewarding, as it reinforced my ability to adapt, analyze, and contribute to an environment of innovation.”
As a military-affiliated student at OU, Aaron has learned how to meet every challenge that comes with balancing academics and ROTC commitments.
“It’s both demanding and rewarding, but with support systems from NROTC and my academic college, I have found resources, encouragement, and a sense of belonging,” Aaron said.
Aaron made an impact in his military community at OU by creating a SharePoint system for the NROTC program, giving his classmates access to resources that help them succeed and stay on track for NROTC and academic responsibilities. His leadership has grown outside of on-campus roles, with not only his summer internship but also his time as an instructor at the New Student Indoctrination program in Great Lakes, Illinois. Aaron served as the head midshipman of the deck, where he led students through the customs, traditions, and expectations of the Navy.
“At the end of the program, sitting with the students informally and hearing their thoughts about their experience was eye-opening,” Aaron said. “The most rewarding part was witnessing the transformation of my students.”
A pivotal moment for Aaron’s career and educational path came during a visit to FLEETFAM in San Diego, California, where it solidified his decision to pursue a career as a Nuclear Surface Warfare Officer.
“Seeing an aircraft carrier up close was unforgettable,” Aaron said. “It’s essentially a floating city, with engineering systems that represent the pinnacle of naval innovation. It gave me a firsthand look at the operational side of the Navy, and I left with absolute certainty that this is the career path I want to follow.”
As Aaron looks forward to his future, he believes the combination of his internship, experiences, and leadership roles in NROTC and on-campus organizations have created a springboard for his success after graduation.
“I plan to apply all these lessons in the Navy and carry them into any future endeavors, whether within or beyond the military,” Aaron said. “Every challenge, whether academic, physical, or professional, has made me more confident in my abilities. I’m grateful for the opportunities I’ve had and for the people I’ve met along the way. NROTC gave me a clear purpose and a passion for serving my country.”
