James Wusterbarth Male • United Arab Emirates
James Wusterbarth's journey from his birth in Heidelberg, Germany, to his current role as an independent contractor in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, is a rich tapestry of service, resilience, and perpetual learning. His diversified career has spanned from serving in the U.S. Navy, teaching at the graduate level, broadcasting on regional television, and working in federal law enforcement to international contracting. In the 1990s, he commenced his professional journey in Washington, D.C., working at the Center for Counterterrorism Studies. He followed this by earning his commission as a U.S. Naval Officer. His time in the Navy, particularly at Basic Underwater Demolition SEAL training, was a testament to his unwavering determination and fortitude. Every service member who makes it into SEAL training believes they are exceptionally tough and unbreakable, but unlike most who arrive at BUD/S, James successfully survived the infamous Hellweek and persevered through seven months of formidable training without quitting. Even when an opportunity for him to serve in Naval Special Warfare did not materialize, his grit and unwavering commitment did not go unnoticed. Naval Aviation offered him one of their most coveted billets, extending him the unheard of privilege to “attend flight school as a second choice.” He deployed extensively throughout the Mediterranean, participating in Operation Allied Force, and later, Operation Enduring Freedom. His impressive military tenure was only the first chapter in a life of commitment and service to others.
His numerous certifications and licenses show his insatiable appetite for learning and mastery. His portfolio includes multiple FAA Pilot Licenses, a DOT Merchant Mariner Master Captain's License, various boating instructor licenses, and a PADI Master Diver certification. His expertise extends to over 35 years as an emergency responder. He holds roles as diverse as a Backcountry Federal Law Enforcement Ranger, Red Cross Certified Lifeguard Instructor, a decade of service to the National Ski Patrol, DOI Red Card Wildland Firefighter with an additional USPA Skydiving Certification, a National Registry Certified EMT, ICS Search And Rescue Coordinator, and FEMA SAR Manager. His dedication in showing up to help where there is the greatest need was profoundly evident in the aftermath of 9/11 when he drove through the night to assist at Ground Zero. This act was yet another example of his extensive commitment to voluntary service, particularly in times of crisis. He has given thousands of hours of volunteer service over the last four decades, and worked in an astounding 34 countries, with additional travels through more than 50. His altruism also extends domestically, with volunteer work for LGBTQ, Hospice, and women's charities as well as fundraising for women's shelters. His ongoing commitment to gender equality, global and domestic emergency responding, and decades of volunteer service was notably recognized when he was unexpectedly honored as the first and only male to ever be awarded the 'Women at Ground Zero Scholarship’ to help EMS workers pay for post graduate schooling.
-Written by: Stephen Jacobsen, Humana-Global Corp
'Rapid Response Contractors Anytime, Anywhere'
