When Lt. Joshua Diaz joined the U.S. Coast Guard in 2007, he never imagined that a graduate degree would become a turning point in his career. Nearly two decades later, Diaz credits Virginia Tech’s Online Master of Natural Resources (OMNR) program with helping him rise through the ranks and lead critical offshore energy initiatives.

“I chose Virginia Tech in part because of a strong family connection. My brother, Chris Diaz, earned his degree there and was an NCAA All-American in wrestling,” Diaz said. “Beyond that, I’ve always had a strong interest in natural resources since I was a child.”

Always self-motivated, Diaz looked for ways to advance his career in the Coast Guard by continuing his education on the graduate level.

“At the time, I was serving on active duty in the Coast Guard as a Marine Science Technician, and the degree aligned perfectly with my professional goals. It supported my pursuit of becoming a commissioned officer and allowed me to deepen my knowledge in a career field I’m passionate about.”

Diaz enrolled in the OMNR program through the Center for Leadership in Global Sustainability (CLIGS) in 2014 and graduated in December 2015. Balancing full-time military service with graduate-level coursework was demanding, but for Diaz, the challenge was worth it.

“The program is challenging, but the sense of accomplishment and pride that comes from giving it your full effort is unmatched,” he said. “The hard work you invest in your education truly pays off—I’ve never met anyone who regrets earning an advanced degree.”

A degree that opens doors

For Diaz, the MNR program was more than an academic experience, it was a career catalyst. Shortly after completing his degree, he was accepted into Officer Candidate School and commissioned as an officer in 2016. Today, he serves as Chief of the Investigations Division at Sector Virginia and was recently selected for promotion to lieutenant commander where he oversees investigations involving vessels supporting the Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind project in coordination with the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement. He also held other key positions within the Coast Guard, including serving as a National Technical Advisor at the Outer Continental Shelf National Center of Expertise, focusing on offshore energy, including wind.

“Without question I would not be where I am today without the foundation I gained at Virginia Tech,” Diaz said.

Diaz says the program instilled qualities that continue to shape his leadership style.

“Discipline, leadership, and pride,” he said. “I completed my degree while serving full-time on active duty, which required sustained focus and commitment. That discipline continues to motivate me today. Along the way, you learn a great deal about yourself, your capabilities, and how far you can push your goals. And once you do, those goals only continue to grow.”

For Diaz, Virginia Tech’s OMNR program stands out among his academic achievements.

“I can’t recommend it highly enough,” he said. “I’ve since earned additional advanced degrees, but nothing compares to my experience at Virginia Tech. For anyone considering a degree in natural resources, Virginia Tech – particularly the Center for Leadership in Global Sustainability – is truly second to none.”

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