The nuclear technology requires particular expertise on the part of Navy personnel. Officers must be able to diagnose problems with the sub's operation. Thus, the need to understand nuclear technology extends well outside laboratories and testing stations. "I am not involved in research and development in any way. As a line officer in the U.S. Navy I earn my paycheck as a warrior," Lt. Males said.

Lt. Males and his ship, the USS Pasadena, are stationed at Pearl Harbor. At sea, different duties divide his 18-hour day. Depending upon the day's assignment, Lt. Males works six hours as either the Engineer Officer of the Watch (EEOW) or the Officer of the Deck (OOD). The EEOW directs 10 enlisted men who monitor the sub's propulsion plant. Lt. Males and his crew are responsible for ensuring proper operation of the reactor, steam, and electrical systems. The OOD essentially drives the ship, assisting the captain with navigation and ensuring combat readiness. As a young sailor, Lt. Males can only serve as OOD while under the oversight of a superior officer. Still, he relishes the opportunity. "Driving the ship is by far the most exciting thing I have done in my life," he explained.

Lt. Males spends the rest of his workday in the propulsion room as the Main Propulsion Assistant (MPA). The MPA monitors the mechanical systems in the engine room, keeping a record of malfunctions and the resulting repairs. The Navy also requires Males to use the submarines exercise room in order to remain fit. A few hours remain to study for Navy exams and to sleep, which Lt. Males wryly noted was not always the Navy's highest priority.

Even during his time off, Lt. Males may be called to participate in war drills. Meant to resemble combat conditions, he described the drills as "intense." The drills simulate casualties and dire situations, forcing officers to make creative adjustments.

In port, the submariner's days calm a little. Lt. Males and his shipmates may leave the Pasadena, visiting local stores, restaurants, and beaches. Of course, port does not mean a vacation. Lt Males still works an 8 to 10 hour day to ensure proper maintenance of the submarine. Every three or four days, he stays on "duty," meaning that he is to remain aboard the ship for a full 24 hours. "There are always enough people on board a Navy ship to take her to sea immediately if threatening conditions make it necessary," Lt. Males said.

In general, service in the Navy keeps Lt. Males on his toes. "Every day I come across a situation that no training program or textbook has prepared me for… My solutions aren't always successful, but each is an opportunity to learn and to grow," Lt. Males elaborated.

Lt. Males encouraged those interested in submarine service to develop leadership skills. "I have to coordinate the efforts of around 25 sailors with incredibly different backgrounds and motivational levels," Lt. Males said when asked to describe the most challenging aspect of his position.

Regarding his educational background, Lt. Males explained that the Navy ROTC required completion of the basic calculus and physics sequences. Although his classmates at the Navy's Nuclear Power School came from a variety of degree programs, including history and music majors, Lt. Males explained that physics provided him with a global scientific knowledge. This broad understanding substantially increased Lt. Males' ability to understand the concepts taught in his nuclear power classes.

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