MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Ala. -- Within the 26th Network Operations Squadron, Airman 1st Class Jack Dahlke stands out not just for his technical skill, but for his quiet professionalism, leadership and unwavering reliability.
As a Wide Area Network Enterprise Operator, Dahlke plays a role in maintaining the security and availability of the Air Force’s global network infrastructure.
“A1C Dahlke is a paramount figure on our team,” said Senior Airman Carl Campbell, 26 NOS enterprise supervisor. “He is reliable and trustworthy in every right.”
Since arriving at Maxwell-Gunter in April of 2023, Dahlke continues to lead by example. He’s trained more than 25 personnel ranging from brand-new Airmen to seasoned noncommissioned officers.
Dahlke works on the Enterprise Router Team, helping manage and protect the Air Force’s network. His team takes care of important routers and systems at 237 locations, keeping over 1,100 network connections running smoothly and securely.
“What I enjoy most is the engineering side of things; solving problems and coming up with unique technical solutions to complex challenges,” Dahlke said.
Dahlke says his grandfather has been a lifelong inspiration, teaching him valuable life lessons. He also credits a senior airman he served with who recently PCS’ed for shaping the Airman and technician he strives to become each day.
"What originally drew me to the Air Force and this career field was the opportunity for high-level training and education in a field that really matters,” he said.
But what sets Dahlke apart is more than his technical acumen, it is the level of trust placed in him so early in his career. On his first deployment, Dahlke filled a master sergeant billet, leading key efforts in support of CENTCOM’s enterprise network. For his contributions, he earned the Joint Service Commendation Medal.
“Early in that deployment, I was told on short notice that I’d be briefing several high-ranking leaders; more stars than I’d ever seen in one room,” said Dahlke. “I ended up doing really well and even got coined for it.”
Outside of work, Dahlke is an avid auto enthusiast and races autocross events in a 1997 Porsche Boxster, which he restored himself.
When asked what advice he’d give to new Airmen entering the career field, Dahlke said, “Stay sharp on the basics. You can dive deep into advanced topics, but if you lose track of the fundamentals, it’ll catch up to you.”
Dahlke believes true influence on his team comes not from giving orders, but from sharing knowledge, being reliable, and quietly setting a strong example for others.
Looking ahead, Dahlke is pursuing a network engineering degree at Western Governors University, further sharpening the skills that make him such a vital member of the 26 NOS team. Whether leading projects, mentoring peers, or maintaining mission-critical networks, Dahlke continues to embody the standard of excellence in today’s cyber force.