John Witte

Experience

• 

  US Navy

  Feb 2002 - Apr 2005

  Division Officer - USS ALBUQUERQUE (SSN 706)
• 

  US Navy

  Jun 2005 - Apr 2007

  Naval Special Warfare Operations Officer - Submarine Squadron One
• 

  US Navy

  Nov 2007 - May 2010

  Engineer Officer (Chief Engineer) - USS MICHIGAN (GOLD) (SSGN 727)
• 

  U.S. Fleet Forces Command

  May 2010 - Mar 2012

  Nuclear Propulsion Program Inspector
• 

  US Navy

  Jun 2012 - May 2014

  Executive Officer - USS MINNESOTA (SSN 783)
• 

  National Defense University

  Jun 2014 - Jun 2015

  Graduate Student - Joint Advanced Warfare School
• 

  Joint Enabling Capabilities Command

  Jul 2015 - Jun 2017

  Joint Planner - Knowledge Management
• 

  US Navy

  Mar 2018 - now

  I lead the Navy's only submarine rescue command, with the mission of transporting sailors from a disabled submarine to the surface. I collaborate with government stakeholders and a dedicated on-site contractor to maintain worldwide rescue capability.Major accomplishments in this role include:- Prioritized and directed contractor operations with an annual budget of over $30,000,000 and over 160,000 labor hours. Improved unity of effort among diverse stakeholders to achieve program objectives.- Led all planning, logistics, and scenario development for advanced Remotely Operated Underwater Vehicle operations during major international exercises.- Improved capabilities and staff procedures for global undersea rescue response by building relationships among government and civilian partners. Provided on-scene and remote technical support for a civilian submersible accident. Show less I managed the operations of a senior staff that provided training and oversight for a squadron of five submarines. I also provided mentorship and guidance for submarine commanding officers based on my experiences in command.Major accomplishments in this role include:- I was selected by Navy leadership to take command of a damaged submarine after the previous commanding officer was fired. I led training, repairs, and crew morale recovery efforts, resulting in a safe and efficient voyage home.- Developed and implemented an improved combat readiness training construct for the squadron's attack submarines, resulting in a 10% increase in participation in fleet priority exercises and recognition as a leader in tactical innovation.- Led multiple engagements and exercises with local officials and emergency response organizations in support of the Navy's emergency and radiological incident response for the state of California. Show less I led planning, operations, training, and maintenance for 130 crew members assigned to a nuclear fast attack submarine.Major accomplishments in this role include:- Increased operational availability by 200% by establishing effective stakeholder relationships and improved strategic planning. Ranked #1 in a squadron of five submarines in on-time mission execution, earning the Battle Efficiency award (Battle E) in 2020.- Managed all phases of operations, maintenance, and training to support an advanced nuclear plant. I built cohesive teams able to excel in high-pressure situations, with performance consistently evaluated in the top 20% during regulatory inspections.-Provided leadership in the retention and development of managerial and technical talent through a positive and collaborative culture. Routinely ranked in the top ten for retention and advancement among submarine crews. Show less

  • Commanding Officer, Undersea Rescue Command

    Jun 2023 - now

  • Deputy Squadron Commander - Submarine Squadron Eleven

    Apr 2021 - Jun 2023

  • Commanding Officer - USS ANNAPOLIS (SSN 760)

    Mar 2018 - Apr 2021