Kyle Bernard PC ‘16

Kyle Bernard PC ‘16

Military Branch: Navy
Division: HSL-48, HSL-40
Rank at Discharge: Petty Officer Second Class
MOS: Aviation Electronics Technician (AT)
NBSS Program: Preservation Carpentry

How did your military service inspire you to attend NBSS?

In the Navy we were always striving to be better. Better at your job, better at leading, better at supporting other sailors. I took that ethos out of the Navy and into my woodworking, eventually finding NBSS and an outstanding group of folks in Preservation Carpentry. There’s nowhere better in the country to learn principle and immediately put it into practice.

How did your military training help you be a successful student at NBSS?

The military is about completing the mission as a team. Many of our projects were team-based, and having worked with many different personalities in various situations made this easy.

How did your military training help you be a successful student at NBSS?

One of the biggest lessons I took away from the Navy was that almost every person I came across had something to teach, good and bad. Everyone has their specialty, that little tip that can make something just a little bit easier. Granted, at times these teachings are more cautionary tales of how not-to-be, but these are still essential lessons nonetheless. That same attitude carried to NBSS; whether it was the staff, my fellow students, guest speakers, or professional tradesfolk, I truly believe I learned something from each and every person I interacted with over those two special years and I have tried to carry that perspective with me throughout my career.

What is your current job?

Director of Exhibits, National Museum of the United States Navy

What advice would you give to someone considering NBSS or a career in the trades?

Don’t be rigid in what your “path” is. Life comes at you fast and change is the only constant.

Anything else you would like to share about your NBSS experience as a veteran?

If you are transitioning right out of service and straight into NBSS, remember that civilians see the world differently from you as a service member. The guidance/guidelines that come with the uniform are not there.

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Read more about Kyle’s experience going from the Navy into Preservation Carpentry.