Austen Averbeck

Austen Averbeck grew up in Tarpon Springs, Florida, where he faced a challenging upbringing. His parents struggled with drug addiction, creating a rough home environment. Wrestling was a significant part of Austen’s life during high school, providing him with discipline and focus. However, when he turned 18, he dropped out of school, took up a job at Chili’s, and began to realize that he needed to make a change to avoid falling into the same path as his parents. Seeking a new direction, Austen joined the U.S. Army in 2016.

Austen went through basic training in South Carolina and attended AIT (Advanced Individual Training) at Fort Sill, Oklahoma. He was then stationed at Joint Base Lewis-McChord in Washington, where he joined the Army’s air defense team, working in the 14G Air Defense Battle Management System Operator role. His responsibilities included using radar and AIS systems, but he found himself with extra time as many of the soldiers were deployed in South Korea.

To stay engaged, Austen pursued his passion for martial arts and wrestling by attending the Army’s Combatives Program. He completed Level 1 and 2 courses, reigniting his enthusiasm for martial arts. Over time, Austen became heavily involved in the Combatives Program and worked alongside Sergeant Castillo to help manage and lead the training at Joint Base Lewis-McChord. His dedication to fitness and combat readiness made him stand out. He maintained a high PT score, always aiming for peak physical condition. Austen firmly believed that soldiers should remain combat-ready, emphasizing the importance of continuous training, both mentally and physically.

Austen’s role in the Combatives Program was critical, especially since many soldiers, particularly those not in infantry or artillery roles, did not receive frequent hand-to-hand combat training. Austen and his team focused on providing soldiers with the skills they needed to protect themselves, offering recurring training sessions to keep them sharp. His philosophy was simple: soldiers and police officers should maintain a high standard of fitness and readiness. He was critical of individuals who didn’t meet these standards, believing that as members of the military or law enforcement, they had a responsibility to be in the best shape possible.

After serving in South Korea and Japan and working with the Navy on a mission in Guam, Austen decided not to reenlist after his initial contract. Although he enjoyed his work and had a “golden ticket” assignment, he knew that his future lay elsewhere. He saw the potential of his GI Bill and wanted to focus on building a life outside of the military. Austen used his final months in the Army to take college classes at Highline Community College in Washington, studying international business.

Upon leaving the military, Austen returned to Florida just as the COVID-19 pandemic began. He spent a year with a friend, catching up and relaxing, but soon realized that he needed to re-engage with the professional world. He landed a job at BBG, a commercial valuation firm in Tampa, but the cost of living in Tampa quickly became too high. Fortunately, Austen had met his partner, Rachel, by this time, and together, they moved forward with their lives. The couple has one daughter and another child on the way.

Austen currently works for Paradigm Technologies, a technology company, where he focuses on sales and solutions. A lifelong learner, he continues his education by pursuing a bachelor’s degree in organizational leadership while also collecting various technology-related certifications. His passion for learning and self-improvement extends beyond his professional life, as he emphasizes the importance of keeping both the body and mind sharp. For Austen, continuous growth—whether through physical fitness, education, or spirituality—is essential for maintaining a balanced and fulfilling life.

He advocates for finding challenges, whether in learning new skills, maintaining fitness, or embracing spirituality. These lessons, many of which were reinforced by his time in the military, have shaped his belief system. Austen’s journey from a tough upbringing to a soldier and now a civilian has instilled in him the value of perseverance, self-discipline, and the pursuit of personal excellence. His story serves as a reminder that, no matter the circumstances, one can always strive to improve and make the most of life’s opportunities.