Navigating New Waters

By Amy Charles, MBA '23

Phillip Fields is a man who has never shied away from new challenges. At 44 years old, he has traded in his naval uniform for textbooks, swapping the ocean’s vastness for the halls of academia. A Pikeville native, Fields spent two decades in the U.S. Navy, but his next mission was decidedly more grounded. He is a first-year student at the University of Pikeville, pursuing a degree in teaching. His goal to become a middle school math and history teacher is one that combines his love of learning, passion for helping others and years of experience gained from a life spent navigating the high seas.

Fields’ journey began in 2000 when what started as a plan to get some life experience turned into a 20-year naval career. Fields enlisted, expecting to serve for five years. However, the Navy had other plans for him, and one year quickly turned into another, with the constantly changing scenery and the camaraderie keeping him engaged. His job transitioned from a Signalman, a role phased out in 2004, to Quartermaster, where he was responsible for navigation and charting courses to get the ship from point A to point B. Fields thrived in this role, enjoying the precision and problem-solving it demanded.

Fields’ career and six deployments earned him the rank of Quartermaster Chief, E7 and took him all over the world to places like Japan, the Mediterranean and the Middle East during Operation Iraqi Freedom. When he retired from the Navy in February 2020, Fields found himself at a crossroads. Although the pay and benefits of military life were appealing, the teaching aspect of his job truly resonated with him.

“In teaching celestial navigation, at first, you see a lost look in their eyes. But when they finally get it, you see that light bulb go off,” said Fields.

“I miss taking complex ideas and teaching them to a group of people, helping them understand difficult concepts. There’s something special about that for me.”

This revelation led him to consider a second career in education. Being a non-traditional student can be intimidating, but Fields views it as an advantage. With a drive honed by his military background, he is determined to succeed.

It may be challenging being the oldest person in class, but my focus is sharper than ever. There is no option to fail. I’m starting a new career at this stage of life, and I’m not giving up on this.

Fields believes that his experience in the Navy will influence his teaching style, particularly when it comes to motivation. He has experience guiding groups who feel disengaged, helping them discover new ideas and purpose. He encourages other veterans to consider education roles, believing that the discipline and leadership skills developed in the military are a natural fit for the classroom. For Fields, becoming a teacher is more than just a new job; it is an opportunity to continue serving in a different way.