Chief Warrant Officer 3 Nicholas Theriot, a native of Kenner, Louisiana, is one of the sailors ensuring the U.S. Navy maintains freedom from the ocean to the stars at Navy Meteorology and Oceanography Command (METOC).
Theriot currently serves as the reserve program director at METOC, headquartered at the Stennis Space Center in Mississippi.

Theriot graduated from Bonnabel High School in 2007. Additionally, Theriot earned a bachelor’s in national security from Excelsior University in 2021.

Theriot joined the Navy 17 years ago.

“I joined the Navy to serve my country and to travel,” said Theriot. “Initially, I also wanted to avoid college. I wanted to serve my country and do something better. I looked at all the branches, but the Navy gave me the best deal. My brother was in the Navy, too.”

The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Kenner.

“I learned to be personable and friendly at home growing up,” said Theriot. “Growing up in our neighborhood, we got to know people for who they are instead of for what you see. Having a friendly personality and a sense of humor goes a long way in keeping a good reputation and networking. When you’re personable and you get to know people, it builds trust and confidence, and you can kind of start to get a sense of how people are doing.”

According to Navy officials, sailors and civilians working throughout Naval Oceanography collect, measure, and analyze the elements of the physical environment (land, sea, air, space). They synthesize a vast array of oceanographic and meteorological data to produce forecasts and warnings in support of safety of flight and navigation.

With 90% of global commerce traveling by sea and access to the internet relying on the security of undersea fiber optic cables, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity of the United States is directly linked to recruiting and retaining talented people from across the rich fabric of America.

Theriot serves a Navy that operates far forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation’s prosperity and security.

“We will earn and reinforce the trust and confidence of the American people every day,” said Adm. Lisa Franchetti, chief of naval operations. “Together we will deliver the Navy the nation needs.”

Theriot has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.

“My proudest accomplishment in the Navy is watching junior sailors or junior officers, who I’ve had an impact on, succeed,” said Theriot. “It feels great to hear someone you’ve had an impact on succeed. Anytime you see someone you made an impact on getting an award or selected for something, it’s a great feeling inside. You helped somebody.”

Theriot can take pride in serving America through military service.

“Serving in the Navy has been one of my biggest accomplishments,” said Theriot. “I have traveled the world, learned different cultures and have been exposed to so much. I owe all of my life’s success to my upbringing at home and the Navy.”

Theriot is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.

“A huge thanks to my parents, Sandra and Kenneth, my brother, Kenny, my wife, Ciara, and other family and friends who made me who I am and who have supported me throughout my career,” added Theriot. “A big shout out to retired Senior Master Sgt. Gail Willis, who deeply encouraged service before self to a greater cause.”