Veteran Spotlight: Stacey Ojeda

From Small-Town Indiana to Global Service

Stacey Ojeda grew up in Morocco, Indiana, and graduated from North Newton Jr./Sr. High School. Inspired by her family’s Navy background, she joined the military after high school instead of going straight to college.

Military Journey

She began boot camp in Orlando in 1988, later training in electronics in Memphis, Tennessee. Excelling in her courses allowed her to choose her assignments, which took her to Jacksonville, Hawaii, San Diego, and even aboard the USS Nimitz aircraft carrier. Her work centered on helicopter electrical systems, where she not only honed her technical expertise but also discovered a passion for teaching and mentoring her peers.

Challenges and Growth

Serving brought both adventure and sacrifice. Ojeda traveled the world and embraced leadership, but she also faced long stretches away from family and the challenge of proving herself in roles not traditionally held by women at the time. Through perseverance, she built resilience and leadership skills that carried into her civilian career.

Civilian Career and Adaptability

After leaving the service, Ojeda continued working with technology—from helicopters to lasers, cryogenics, and now medical equipment at Beckman Coulter, where she’s been for 20 years. She credits the military with shaping her adaptability and troubleshooting abilities, living by the motto “adapt and overcome.”

Life Beyond Work

Outside of her career, she enjoys riding her purple Harley Davidson, attending local festivals and concerts, catching Cubs games in Chicago, and watching movies.

Giving Back

Ojeda also volunteers with Operation Charlie Bravo, a nonprofit supporting veterans in Crown Point. Passionate about helping others considering military service, she emphasizes the importance of preparation and understanding the sacrifices involved.

“Veterans often share an understanding that’s hard for civilians to grasp,” she says. “I just want to make a difference wherever I can.”