Lt. Jessica Valeske. Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jordan Jennings, Navy Office of Community Outreach

SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) - Lt. Jessica Valeske, a Sacramento native, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Naval Information Warfare Center (NIWC) Pacific.

Valeske graduated from Sheldon High School in 2008.

The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Sacramento.

“My family back at home has taught me the power of respect and integrity,” said Valeske. “Having these values instilled in me from such a young age has helped me in my Navy career.”

Valeske joined the Navy 11 years ago. Today, Valeske serves as an engineering duty officer.

“I joined the Navy because college was expensive and the Navy provided an alternative that would give me life-long skills,” said Valeske. "I also wanted to get out of my hometown and see the world."

NIWC Pacific is comprised of more than 5,200 scientists, researchers, engineers, technicians, and personnel who develop and deploy technologies to support warfighters from seabed to space.

With 90% of global commerce traveling by sea and access to the internet relying on the security of undersea fiber optic cables, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity of the United States is directly linked to recruiting and retaining talented people from across the rich fabric of America.

"We will earn and reinforce the trust and confidence of the American people every day," said Adm. Lisa Franchetti, Chief of Naval Operations. "Together we will deliver the Navy the nation needs.”

Valeske has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.

“I am most proud to have been accepted to the Naval Academy where I earned a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering and a master’s degree in electrical engineering,” said Valeske. "I am also proud of having gone on three deployments and having climbed the ranks from enlisted to commissioning to becoming a lieutenant.”

Valeske serves a Navy that operates far forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation's prosperity and security.

“Serving in the Navy means giving up certain rights and holidays to serve and protect the American people,” said Valeske. “We as sailors become something bigger than ourselves.”

Valeske is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.

“I would like to thank my mom, Susan, and the rest of my family for always supporting me and being there for me whenever I needed them,” said Valeske.

Valeske is also grateful for the opportunity to serve in the Navy.

“I am looking forward to building and contributing to innovating the fleet in terms of technology and keeping this Navy the biggest and strongest navy in the world,” added Valeske.