RIO RANCHO, NM, April 30, 2025 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Sam Desai has been selected for inclusion in Marquis Who's Who. As in all Marquis Who's Who biographical volumes, individuals profiled are selected on the basis of current reference value. Factors such as position, noteworthy accomplishments, visibility, and prominence in a field are all taken into account during the selection process.

Mr. Desai is a distinguished professional with a robust career in both the military and civilian sectors. Currently serving as the director of business development at MCT Industries Inc. since 2011, he has played a pivotal role in researching new proposals, securing contracts and acting as a technical subject matter expert. His expertise in communication between military and civilian sectors and providing worldwide support for GSE issues has been instrumental in his success. Prior to his current role, he dedicated 30 years to the United States Air Force (USAF), achieving the highest enlisted rank of chief master sergeant.

As a first-generation immigrant born in Kampala, Uganda, Mr. Desai was educated in London until age nine. After immigrating to the United States, he obtained his GED diploma and enlisted in the Air Force in 1980 at age 17. In 1997, he earned an associate degree in applied technology in aerospace ground equipment from the Community College of the Air Force.

Mr. Desai served the USAF in various roles, beginning as a wrench turner on the flightline and advancing to maintenance group superintendent for the largest stateside and deployed maintenance groups in the USAF. He also served as the GSE equipment manager for the Air Mobility Command and as senior enlisted leader for the Air Force Operational Test and Evaluation Center. His responsibilities included overseeing tests for urgent operational needs and overseeing GSE acquisitions, sustainment and training for GSE professionals across the Air Force. His career has brought him to over 40 countries, 49 states, and several U.S. territories. Notably, he led initiatives to upgrade equipment in Panama from 1994 to 1999 and innovated de-icing equipment for aircraft, which proved invaluable during the Afghanistan war.

His career culminated as the command chief for the Combined Joint Special Operations Air Component (CJSOAC), while deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan. His leadership was crucial during combat operations while stationed in Qatar for Operation Enduring Freedom, Iraqi Freedom and the Horn of Africa.

After retiring from the military, Mr. Desai continued his education by pursuing additional coursework in marketing and accounting. Transitioning to civilian life required him to adapt and learn practical skills quickly. He emphasizes the importance of logical deadlines, understanding parameters, leadership approval and knowing the right people to accomplish tasks.

Beyond his professional achievements, Mr. Desai has been involved with civic organizations, such as Habitat for Humanity in New Jersey, and is a life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. His commitment to community service reflects his dedication to giving back and supporting others. Throughout his career, he has received numerous accolades, including the Bronze Star Medal for meritorious service in combat, the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, six Meritorious Service Medals for peacetime accomplishments, three Air Force Commendation Medals and two Air Force Achievement Medals. Mr. Desai is also the recipient of the New Jersey Distinguished Service Medal with one device. He is also proud of publishing an article on leadership and joint strategies and delivering a commencement speech at a 2010 Airman Leadership School graduation at Hurlburt Field, Florida.

In his personal life, Mr. Desai has lived on 5 continents. He has raised his twin sons as a single parent since they were 11 months old while relocating around the world. He prioritizes spending time with his twins and grandchildren. He also enjoys reading and participating in activities at his community church, particularly Sunday school. He values his Christian faith, family and the strong relationships formed during his military service, which have provided him with a supportive network throughout his career. Looking ahead, he plans to focus more on his faith, recreation, health and spending time with his family while indulging his passion for travel and exploring new places.

About Marquis Who's Who®:
Since 1899, when A. N. Marquis printed the First Edition of Who's Who in America®, Marquis Who's Who® has chronicled the lives of the most accomplished individuals and innovators from every significant field of endeavor, including politics, business, medicine, law, education, art, religion and entertainment. Who's Who in America® remains an essential biographical source for thousands of researchers, journalists, librarians and executive search firms around the world. The suite of Marquis® publications can be viewed at the official Marquis Who's Who® website, www.marquiswhoswho.com.

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