Anchored in Excellence: From CU to the High Seas
Admiral Stephen T. “Web” Koehler (Phys’86) has dedicated his life to the U.S. Navy. Inspired by his father’s career as a Navy pilot, Koehler began his own career in naval aviation upon graduating from CU, where he was commissioned through the Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps (NROTC). After nearly 40 years as a naval aviator, he assumed command of the U.S. Pacific Fleet in April 2024.
How did your education at CU Boulder prepare you for a career in the Navy?
My studies in physics made me a more competitive recruit when I joined the CU Navy ROTC. This was especially beneficial when I attended the Navy’s Nuclear Power School later in my career, ultimately enabling me to command a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier.
What leadership principles do you prioritize when commanding a team, both in combat and in peacetime?
Whether in war or peace, operating well requires every individual to maintain a constant pursuit of excellence and a mastery of their area of expertise. A highly skilled team is able to make the extremely difficult look routine. Cooperation and teamwork are non-negotiable standards in any mission.
Reflecting on your roles in major operations, such as Operation Desert Storm, Southern Watch and Iraqi Freedom, what do you want the next generation of military leaders to know?
Every generation of leaders faces new challenges. Our success, however, depends on compassion, care, standards and true leadership of those who work for and with you. Only with a shared understanding of service and a common purpose will you succeed as a team.
What do you see as the biggest challenges for the U.S. Navy in the coming years?
Since the end of World War II, the U.S. Navy has preserved and promoted a rules-based international order with relative peace and prosperity. In the years ahead, we must continue to strengthen our ability to maintain this peace and prosperity with cutting-edge technologies, the innovation of our warfighters, and enduring coordination with our allies and partners — and we always do so with honor, courage and commitment.
Can you share your favorite memory from your time at CU Boulder?
It is hard to pick a single memory. It varies from hiking and climbing in Chautauqua Park and Eldorado Canyon to the CU football win over Nebraska in the fall of 1986. I still remember that win, because there is nothing like the taste of victory.
Photo by Christopher Sypert