A native of New Jersey, Captain Brett Oster received a Bachelor of Science from Lehigh University in Materials Science and Engineering in 1997. Upon graduation, he enlisted as a nuclear Electronics Technician and then gained his commission in 1998 via Officer Candidate School. He received a Master of Arts in National Security and Strategic Studies as well as JPME Phase I & II from the Naval War College.

At sea assignments include Ordnance Officer in USS MITSCHER (DDG 57), Main Propulsion Assistant in USS HAWES (FFG 53), Weapons Officer and Combat Systems Officer in USS FORREST SHERMAN (DDG 98), Executive Officer in LCS Crew 109, Executive Officer in USS McFAUL (DDG 74), Chief Staff Officer in DESTROYER SQUADRON TWO SIX, and Executive Officer and Commanding Officer in USS MITSCHER (DDG 57). 

Shore-duty assignments include instructor tours in the Seamanship and Navigation Department at United States Naval Academy and in the Maritime Warfare Department at Surface Warfare Officers School, the Joint Fires Officer in United States Naval Forces Central Command, the Washington DC Placement Officer in Navy Personnel Command, and most recently the Joint Integrated Air and Missile Defense Office Warfighter Requirements Branch Chief in the Joint Staff.
    
Captain Oster has been awarded the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Navy Commendation Medal, Navy Achievement Medal and various other unit, campaign, and service awards.