Faculty Spotlight: Brandon Gehrke
Brandon Gehrke is a U.S. Air Force captain, assistant professor of aerospace studies, and the education officer for Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps Detachment 145, part of Florida State University’s College of Arts and Sciences. Gehrke, who has served in the Air Force since 2009, previously held leadership roles in operations and program management, oversaw aviation maintenance and logistics programs, and supported large-scale aircraft modernization initiatives before joining FSU’s faculty in 2025.
Tell us a little about your background and your journey to FSU.
I’m originally from Lake City, Florida, but I grew up as a military kid and lived all over the U.S. throughout high school. I’m an acquisitions officer by trade, but an opportunity came up to become an assistant professor, and FSU happened to be one of the schools on my list. I’m a lifelong fan of the Seminoles, so it really is a dream come true to work for the university.
What inspired you to pursue a career in the military?
Several members of my family served in all branches of the armed forces, and they all enjoyed rewarding careers and traveled extensively. Additionally, I wanted to be part of something bigger than myself and do my part in protecting our way of life. Lastly, the benefits provided by the military ultimately influenced my decision to join.
Tell us about your experiences serving in the U.S. Air Force.
My time in the Air Force gave me experiences I could never have imagined. I lived in both Asia and Europe for a total of five years, immersing myself in cultures I might never have encountered otherwise. I have visited over 40 countries, often traveling to places I never would have dreamed of seeing. These experiences broadened my perspective, challenged me to grow, and shaped how I engage with the world. Looking back, every difficult day was outweighed by the privilege of seeing so much, learning so much, and being part of something bigger than myself.
What’s your favorite part of your current job as a senior military science instructor?
Without a doubt, it’s watching our cadets transform from regular students into warriors. Each week, you get to see that “click” in their brain as they begin to walk and talk like true leaders. The cadets at FSU are some of the most motivated people I’ve ever met, and I know the Air Force will be in good hands once I decide to hang up my uniform. Interacting with them every day has been the highlight of my career.
What does a typical day in your job look like?
The day always begins at 6 a.m. at the Bobby E. Leach Student Recreation Center or on the Mike Long track. Twice a week, AFROTC holds physical training sessions led by our cadets. The other three days are spent motivating each other in the weight room. Most days involve administrative duties and helping cadets solve problems related to their daily lives.
Cadets also spend two days with us in the classroom and a few hours each Thursday at their Leadership Lab, a weekly mandatory class where officer skills are developed and fine-tuned. This course is led by junior and senior cadets, with guidance from active-duty officers, to help cadets learn and practice the skills needed to become Air Force officers.
What do you want the public to know about the importance of your work?
The public should know that AFROTC is demanding and requires a ton of discipline from our cadets. We are essentially conducting a four-year interview with each cadet to make sure they are fit to serve their country. Our staff has over 100 years of combined Air Force experience, so the public can rest assured that we’re only sending out the best of the best to the force.
What is your best memory so far from working at FSU?
Beating Alabama in football is one of my favorite memories at FSU. Additionally, watching our seniors being honored at the military appreciation game was truly a heartfelt and memorable experience. They really appreciated being recognized on the field in their uniforms, in front of family, friends and fans.
Who are your role models?
My mother has been one of my greatest role models. My father passed away when I was young, and my mom raised my sister and I alone for several years until she met my stepdad. As a nurse for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, she worked a very demanding schedule but still found the time and resources to give my sister and me a wonderful childhood. I will forever be grateful for the sacrifices she made for us.
Do you have any exciting upcoming projects or goals you’re working toward?
Our cadets worked diligently to acquire four virtual-reality aircraft flight simulators so they can learn the basics of flying in a controlled environment. We are now working on connecting those simulators with others at different Air Force detachments across the country. This will give our cadets a chance to interact with fellow cadets in other regions and work together to accomplish flying objectives.
If your students only learned one thing from you (of course, hopefully they learn much more than that), what would you hope it to be?
If my students learn only one thing from me, I hope it’s how to face adversity with resilience, especially when they make mistakes. As an Air Force officer, I learned early on that errors are inevitable, but how we respond to them defines our leadership and character. I want my students to understand that setbacks aren’t failures; they’re opportunities to grow, readjust and come back stronger. If they leave my course knowing how to navigate challenges with integrity, humility, and perseverance, then I’ve done my job.