Air Force Veteran Named 2025 Rhodes Scholar

A former U.S. Air Force C-130 crew chief has earned the distinction of becoming a Rhodes Scholar, one of the most prestigious academic honors in the world. According to the article “Former C-130 crew chief earns prestigious Rhodes Scholarship,” published by Military Times, Nicholas “Nick” Bradford, a U.S. Air Force Academy graduate, is among the 32 American recipients selected to study at the University of Oxford in 2025.

Bradford, originally from Houston, Texas, served as a C-130 Hercules crew chief before attending the Air Force Academy, where he graduated in 2023 with a degree in geospatial science. His academic focus includes environmental and climate sciences, and he has devoted much of his research to understanding the intersection of climate change and national security. His selection as a Rhodes Scholar highlights a growing recognition of the importance of interdisciplinary knowledge within the military.

The Rhodes Trust, founded in 1902, selects scholars based on academic excellence, leadership, and commitment to service. Bradford’s selection underscores his commitment not only to technical and scientific advancement but also to public service. At Oxford, he plans to pursue a Master of Science in Environmental Change and Management, followed by a second master’s degree in Global Governance and Diplomacy.

Bradford’s military career and academic achievements are emblematic of a larger trend of service members distinguishing themselves in civilian academic and policy-making arenas. His work aims to bridge the gap between science and policy, with the goal of crafting actionable solutions to climate-related security risks. In interviews cited by Military Times, Bradford emphasized the importance of applying military experience toward solving global challenges, noting that climate is no longer a standalone issue but one that intersects with nearly every aspect of global stability.

The inclusion of a former enlisted airman in the Rhodes Scholar cohort also reflects the U.S. military’s emphasis on developing well-rounded leaders able to operate across a range of complex environments. Bradford’s academic trajectory stands as a testament to the opportunities that military service can provide in developing leadership, discipline, and a commitment to community—qualities that align closely with the values upheld by the Rhodes Trust.

As a Rhodes Scholar, Bradford joins a long line of influential figures—from U.S. presidents and senators to prominent scientists and authors—who have used their scholarship as a platform to drive meaningful societal change. His future work at Oxford and beyond may play an important role in shaping policy responses to some of the most pressing challenges facing the United States and its allies.

The Military Times piece provides a snapshot not only of Bradford’s achievements but also of a wider initiative to support veterans and service members in pursuing advanced education and addressing complex global issues. Bradford’s story serves as an inspiring example of how military experience and academic ambition can combine to effect real-world impact.