KUWAIT – In the ever-evolving operational landscape of the U.S. Central Command, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers stands as a crucial force in strengthening infrastructure, enhancing security, and delivering the engineering support and services essential for sustained military and partner-nation success. For U.S. Army Sergeant Major Alan E. Thomas, Jr., a seasoned Army engineer and project manager currently serving with the Expeditionary District in Kuwait, the experience of working within USACE is proving to be a career defining experience.
Thomas’s journey into military engineering began in 2001 when he joined the U.S. Army and trained at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, as a combat engineer. Early in his career, he developed a deep appreciation for driving results in complex operational environments, an ability that shaped his leadership style and served him well in future deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. Over the years, he expanded his expertise, training as an Army infantryman and later as a horizontal construction engineer, adapting quickly to the evolving demands of military engineering.
"Throughout my career, I have prioritized problem-solving in high-stakes situations so serving with the Army Corps of Engineers in CENTCOM and supporting Combined Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve presented an exciting opportunity to apply those hard-earned skills on a strategic level while also providing a chance to integrate my military engineering capabilities with civilian project management methodologies." Thomas explained.
“Leveraging my leadership experience and engineering expertise in a joint, expeditionary environment was another motivating factor in my decision to volunteer," Thomas said. “The Expeditionary District offered the perfect opportunity.”
The Army Corps of Engineer’s role in the Middle East has deep historical roots, dating back to the 1950s when it began executing military construction projects across the region. As CENTCOM formally took shape in the early 1980s, USACE played a foundational role in developing critical infrastructure that continues to support military operations today. From airfields and logistics hubs to secure facilities and force protection measures, USACE’s work has been integral to sustaining U.S. and allied forces, strengthening host-nation partnerships, and ensuring long-term regional stability. Over the decades, USACE has expanded its mission, adapting to emerging threats and operational needs while maintaining a steadfast commitment to delivering engineering solutions in one of the world’s most challenging and complex environments.
For Thomas, volunteering with an organization with such a strong legacy was a natural next step in his career. His previous roles, including serving as command sergeant major for the 81st Troop Command, multiple leadership roles during deployments to Kuwait, Iraq, and Afghanistan, and overseeing training initiatives for junior engineers across the Army, laid a strong foundation for tackling the unique challenges of one of the most dynamic operational environments on earth.
"Supporting the USACE mission differs significantly from my previous roles due to the scale, complexity, and long-term strategic impact of the projects," Thomas noted. "Unlike traditional Army engineering assignments, which often focus on mobility, survivability, and combat engineering support, the extreme environmental conditions and complex operational environment require an extensive understanding of infrastructure development, contract management, and interagency coordination."
The Expeditionary District partners with CENTCOM and SOCOM and their component commands, including U.S. Army Central, U.S. Air Forces Central, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command, as well as interagency and multinational military organizations across Kuwait, Iraq, and Central and South Asia. Effective leadership is essential to navigating the complexities of these partnerships while driving successful program and project execution—ensuring USACE continues to be the partner of choice in the region.
Operating in such a dynamic region requires more than strategic partnerships; it demands the ability to adapt mission execution to the realities of logistical and security challenges. Thomas’s experience in training exercises and contingency operations shaped his approach to overcoming these complexities while keeping projects aligned with mission objectives.
"One of the biggest challenges I face in this environment is the need to execute construction projects under extremely austere conditions while ensuring they not only stay on track with the mission, schedule, and budget but remain in compliance with safety and engineering standards," Thomas said.
"Many projects also require balancing mission urgency with logistical constraints, host-nation regulations, and force protection measures. By leveraging data-driven decision-making, we have been able to anticipate challenges, streamline processes, and sustain project momentum.”
Despite the complexities of the mission, USACE’s impact on warfighter readiness stands out as Thomas’ core motivator.
“So many of the projects executed and innovations developed by USACE contribute to logistics sustainment, power generation, and critical infrastructure supporting combat operations and directly enhances warfighter readiness, operational effectiveness, and force protection," Thomas said.
"I am extremely proud to be a part of an organization that delivers critical infrastructure and engineering solutions that directly supports those on the front lines. "Whether it is improving forward operating base infrastructure, constructing hardened facilities, or enhancing energy resilience, our work ensures that warfighters have the facilities, resources, and operational capabilities they need to succeed in any environment.
Thomas also shared his thoughts on the fulfillment he finds in his role as the district’s senior enlisted advisor and how he sees mentorship as a key component of mission success.
"The most rewarding aspect of this deployment is the opportunity to mentor junior engineers and officers," Thomas shared. “Working in a joint and interagency environment allows me to collaborate with highly skilled professionals from various disciplines, fostering a continuous learning culture."
He also had some advice for military engineers thinking about volunteering with USACE overseas.
"For Army engineers considering volunteering with USACE,” Thomas advised, “I highly recommend it. Every Army engineer can benefit from embracing adaptability and seeking out opportunities to expand beyond traditional engineering roles," Thomas emphasized.
"This assignment offers an unparalleled chance to advance expertise in project management, logistics coordination, and contingency construction planning. I would emphasize the importance of understanding contracting and acquisition processes, as these play a significant role in executing large-scale infrastructure projects,” Thomas continued. “Familiarizing yourself with the Department of Defense acquisition framework, funding mechanisms, and contract oversight responsibilities will also provide a solid foundation for success.
"The experience will also give you an unparallel opportunity to build strong professional networks within USACE and across the joint force,” Thomas continued. “Collaboration with civilian engineers, contractors, and host-nation officials is vital to navigating complex projects successfully. Additionally, you will have opportunities to engage in mentorship and professional development, such as earning project management certifications or pursuing additional technical training, which will enhance your ability to contribute meaningfully to the mission and broaden and deepen your knowledge and expertise exponentially."
Looking back on his time so far, Thomas reflected on how his experiences are shaping his professional journey.
"This will be a defining chapter in my career as an Army engineer," he said. "The challenges, professional growth, and direct impact on mission success continue to reinforce my commitment to military engineering and leadership development. Serving with the USACE professionals across the region is providing invaluable lessons that will shape my approach to engineering operations, mentorship, and problem-solving for years to come.
Through the dedication of professionals like Thomas, the Expeditionary District is designing the future of CENTCOM operations, delivering engineering excellence that builds a strong foundation for enduring success and ensures our nation’s engineers, mission partners, and warfighters remain strong, capable, and ready.