Javier Marquez is using his experience and knowledge gained from serving in the USMC in his work on WSMR overseeing all Potential Explosion Sites by ensuring sites are Department of Defense Explosives Safety Board approved.
Javier Marquez on why he serves
WHITE SANDS MISSILE RANGE, N.M. (May 31, 2022) Javier Marquez, Explosives Safety Manager for White Sands Missile Range (WSMR), assigned under the White Sands Test Center, has been on post for almost five years. In September 2017, he was hired as the first 0017 Explosives Safety Specialists, not just for WSMR, but within U.S. Army Test and Evaluation Command. Prior to joining the WSMR community, Marquez served in the United States Marine Corps (USMC) for over 20 years. His occupations in the Marine Corps were Infantry, Security Forces, Ammunition Technician and Explosives Safety. After his service, he worked as an Ammunition Supply Point supervisor on Fort Bliss.
He is now using experience and knowledge gained from serving in the USMC in his work on WSMR overseeing all Potential Explosion Sites by ensuring sites are Department of Defense Explosives Safety Board approved.
When asked what he likes most about his job, Marquez explained, “I have a lot of responsibility with this unique position. Having a lot of experience with ammunition and explosives is used here on WSMR where it all starts with testing and evaluation. You’re not just in safety for people but also for the environment, and to keep people and facilities safe. Ultimately, it is because I am still serving my country. Period. I owe the country a lot, the Department of Defense has done me well, it is a big umbrella, and it feels good to serve my country by bringing my experience and background to the table here at WSMR.”
He stays busy under the Army’s Career Program-12 as an ESS professional and serves as a member of both the Nation Environment Policy Act and Rio Property Planning Board.
Marquez enjoys being closer to home and supporting his family as his children transition to college and adulthood. His daughter studies media and communications at Texas Tech, and his son, a high school student, is one of the top flute players in Texas. He loves to spend his free time supporting his children’s passions and hiking and camping with his family.