Although he may look intimidating, Captain Daniel Dominguez has made a positive impact on UMA’s JROTC classes. To understand how he got to UMA, there is a lot of experience that
made him how he is today.
Before UMA, Captain Dominguez went to Basic Military Training in 2005 at Lackland AFB in
Texas. Later in that year, he went to technical training schools in Monterey, California, and San Angelo, Texas. He began his career with the 169th Intelligence Squadron at the Utah Air
National Guard as an Airborne Cryptologic Language Analyst.
He graduated from the University of Utah in 2012 with a bachelor of science in sociology. He then went to the non-commissioned Officer Academy in Tennessee. In 2013, Captain switched careers, transferring to the Wyoming Air National Guard to be able to pursue a commissioning opportunity as an Intelligence Officer in 2015, which he graduated from.
“Capt. Dominguez applied to be an AFJROTC through the United States Air Force (USAF), like most of the instructors. Administration and I interviewed multiple excellent candidates and Captain Dominguez stood out. He has both enlisted and officer experience. He has experience with teenagers, that is what stood out with him.” Stated Lt. Col Tisher when asked about the hiring process.
Captain Dominguez teaches the 9th/10th grade JROTC classes, teaching the Aerospace
Science portion. “Captain is a no-nonsense guy but knows how to joke around when the time is appropriate. He has a direct and interactive teaching style with the students. He brings an
unique experience with a background in intel and various special duties around the world.”
states Staff Sergeant Merrick.
“Captain Dominguez is a great addition to our team. The skills that he displays that are effective are his compassion, attention to detail, and teamwork. His teaching style is very direct and professional, but includes levity and candor.” States Lt. Col. Tisher.
One thing Captain Dominguez wants cadets to know is that there is always a time and place. A time and place to relax, but also a time and place to be on point and pay attention.
In Captain Dominguez’s free time, he coaches basketball at Riverton High School in Riverton UT. One key takeaway from Captain’s experiences is that there are always challenges, but “it’s not what defines me. It’s my response to the challenges that matter.”