Looking Back
Where are they now?
Scott Arthur Eberting
I love learning about the career paths of people, I always have. I recently read a book about Ulysses S. Grant. His career path is very interesting. Of course, it ended well, but he had a tough go of it for a long time. He was ‘pushed’ out of the Army in 1854, but reluctantly returned in 1861, (the beginning of the Civil War). A hometown friend pushed for Grant’s quick military promotions, Lincoln was later impressed, and eight years later Grant was President. Wow.
Our very own Harry Truman wasn’t happy with his early career choices. He hated farming and his clothing store failed. He once quipped, “If I had not become President I might have become a piano player in a ‘*&^%*#’ house.” He was a serious piano player.
I have shared before that I became a teacher because the UCM (CMSC at the time) Dean of Men thought I was a little too ‘rebellious’ to be one of their math department’s grad assistants. (A lot of young people were ‘rebellious’ in the ‘60s.) The rejection was hurtful at the time. Financially broke, I frantically started looking for a teaching job. Of course, I would like to thank the Dean now. That forced path change ended up being a good one for me.
I recently learned about a 2010 CHS alumnus, Scott Eberting. He has had some interesting career experiences. He made a big career decision last spring. Scott was a well-known student-athlete. During high school, he was the soccer goalie, did track and field, and played basketball. I remember him well, making great save after great save on the soccer field. He was a big part of CHS soccer becoming competitive. You know he had to be a determined young man because he also became an Eagle Scout. When asked about some school memories he said, “I enjoyed English class with Mrs. Sadler, because I’ve always been a storyteller and enjoyed having her book choices to focus on. Steve Ritter and Shawn Hutchinson showed me how to develop as a leader in soccer and in school. I had many teachers and coaches that were good role models.”
Scott attended Missouri Valley and Pitt State as his ‘Media Arts’ path unfolded. I asked Scott about his film work. “Regarding film work I have spent time producing and directing short films and videos mostly focusing on sports, music videos, and promotional videos with some short fiction and experimental film. I’ve also made films at grad school at the University of Montana and Colorado. I also had international experience in Costa Rica. My future endeavors are to keep creating documentaries to inspire travel and people to have new experiences and hobbies.”
Like most career paths, a jog in the road found Scott working as a cook at the Glacier National Park in 2013, and as a guide at other NPs. Soon after he got his Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in media arts in Montana. It does not take long to realize Scott has an adventurous side.
Then in April 2022, Scott made a big decision and joined the Space Force. (If you are like me, you know very little about our newest armed forces branch.) The U.S. Space Force was established on Dec. 20, 2019, when the National Defense Authorization Act was signed into law, creating the first new branch of the armed services in 73 years. Space Force was added to: Army, Marines, Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard. Scott’s job is in electromagnetic warfare which focuses on detecting, characterizing, and monitoring satellite signals on the electromagnetic spectrum around the world. (OK, I am not sure what that actually is, but I did not think I should ask too many questions, either.) Scott did offer, “My job is technically space systems operations, with electromagnetic warfare as one of the three disciplines within SSO that you get to apply for.” Scott feels there is a strong chance the Space Force will be a long-term career move. He could eventually become a commission officer. He obviously has an interesting career path.
When I talk to young people about their future, I remind them that career paths are often a winding road and sometimes a bumpy road, and that is OK. Of my four children only one ended up working in the field they trained for. So, young and old, keep learning, stay flexible, and enjoy the ride. Thanks for sharing Scott, keep us safe and have fun. To all, feel free to refer a friend for “Where are they now?” Until next time.
