CAPT Steven R. McDowell

Deputy Commander, Naval Surface and Mine Warfighting Development Center (NSMWDC)

21 November 2023 A native of Millbrook, NY, Captain Steven McDowell is a 1993 graduate of Brockport University with a bachelor’s degree in Communications Studies. He received his commission through Officer Candidate School in 1997 following his initial enlistment as an Intelligence Specialist onboard USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71).  

His at sea assignments include Information Systems Officer in USS Mount Whitney (LCC 20); Fire Control Officer in USS San Jacinto (CG 56); Combat Systems Officer in USS Nicholas (FFG 47) and USS Cape St. George (CG 71); Executive Officer in USS Mobile Bay (CG 53); Commanding Officer in USS Gary (FFG 51), and Deputy & Commander, Destroyer Squadron 23.

McDowell’s shore tours include Naval Postgraduate School with a master’s degree in National Security Affairs; N6 at Destroyer Class Squadron; N5/Assistant Chief of Staff Plans Officer at Expeditionary Strike Group Two, Legislative Fellow to U.S. Senator Susan Collins of Maine; Executive Assistant at Naval Warfare Integration Group (OPNAV N00X); Global Force Management Data Initiative Branch Chief at Joint Staff, J8; Deputy Director, Surface & Mine Warfighting Development Center, Sea Combat Division; and Director, Surface Advanced Warfighting School, Surface & Mine Warfighting Development Center.

His personal awards include the Legion of Merit, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Navy Commendation Medal, Navy Achievement Medal, as well as various campaign and unit awards.