Joseph Wotton:
CLASS OF 1977
South Broward High SchoolClass of 1977
Hollywood, FL
US Air Force Academy Class of 1981
Colorado springs, CO
Joseph's Story
Life
Finished my 20 yrs of AF service, retired as a LtCol. Working for IBM these past 5 years. Happily married with three kids, son is in Colorado with his wife. One daughter has made me a Grandpa (she and the little guy are living at home with us) while my other daughter works in a high end restaurant (Jay Alexanders) in Tampa. Greatly enjoying life these days since I get to work mostly out of my home when I am not traveling (but I do travel too much). Also loving the year round recreation opportunities Florida affords after years of New England and Colorado winters!
School
Went to the AF Academy after SBHS, Graduated in 1981. Did a masters while in the AF and also completed numerous training courses for my work as an Acquisition Officer.
College
The Academy was definitely challenging for me. In retrospect, I wish I had focused more of my time on academics. But, I have wonderful memories of my waterpolo and swimming team pals and our adventures together. I also greatly appreciate the many experiences provided during those four years. I would definitely take advantage of outside activities like skiing, hiking and rafting if ever out there again. I tremendously enjoyed going back to USAFA for 4 years to coach waterpolo and reconnect with my wife. More on tha...Expand for more
t time in my life later...
Workplace (Air Force)
Spent 20 years in the Air Force. Started in S Cal for 7 years in two assignments (81-88). 2nd job was in Newport Beach in the Ford Aerospace plant - had a great view of Catalina Island. Then went back to the Air Force Academy as the assistant water polo coach - the most fun job I ever had (88-92). Loved the interaction with the cadets and the laughter we shared each day. Reconnected with my wife after two years and married her in 1990 like I should have 10 years before when I was a junior at the Academy. We next went to Seattle to the Boeing plant (1992-95). Loved the scenery and the outdoors there. Finished my AF career (1995-2001) at Hanscom AFB, NW of Boston in the Lexington/Concord area - the birthplace of American freedom. Loved the history all around us and Boston - terrific city.
Post Air Force
Moved back to Florida (Melbourne) to work for a small business doing Defense related work. After 2 years, IBM made me an offer I could not refuse in 2003. The job allows me to use my AF experience in selling IBM Research capabilities back to the Government. Loving the job and my teammates. Expect to continue working for IBM until I finally retire unless something much better and/or more interesting comes along.
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