Amish Smith

About Amish Smith

I am a Marine Corps officer, historian, and educator with over two decades of leadership experience in military operations, intelligence, and higher education. My career has been defined by a commitment to service, strategic thinking, and mentorship, shaping warriors and scholars for success in dynamic environments.Currently, I serve as an intelligence officer at 1st Force Reconnaissance Company, leveraging my expertise in operational planning, reconnaissance, and intelligence fusion to enhance mission success. Previously, I was an Assistant Professor and Marine Officer Instructor at the University of Idaho and Washington State University, where I trained and mentored over 250 future military leaders in military history, leadership, and ethics. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I spearheaded the transition to online learning, implementing innovative instructional methodologies to maintain academic rigor and engagement.Throughout my career, I have led and developed teams in high-stakes environments, from combat deployments in the Asia-Pacific and Middle East to training the next generation of military officers. My experience includes serving as a Platoon Commander, where I managed $12.5M in assets and prepared my team for real-world missions, and as an Enlisted Reconnaissance Marine, where I conducted 480+ hours of clandestine surveillance and participated in elite training with U.S. and international special forces.Beyond my professional responsibilities, I am deeply committed to service and mentorship. I have served as an Organizational Liaison for Marine Toys for Tots and as a mentor for the Vandal Mentor Network, assisting military-affiliated students and veterans in their transition to academic and professional careers. My involvement with the American Legion reflects my dedication to honoring veterans’ sacrifices and strengthening the military community.Academically, I hold an M.S. in Adult, Organizational Learning & Leadership and an M.A. in History, complemented by a B.S. in History & Philosophy from the University of Idaho, where I graduated Magna Cum Laude. My passion lies in the intersection of history, leadership, and strategy, and I actively engage in professional discussions on military history, virtue ethics, and leadership development.I welcome opportunities for collaboration, mentorship, and meaningful discussions on leadership, military strategy, and education.

Experience

1. Battalion Operations Officer

   United States Marine Corps

   May 2025 — Present

Education

• University of Idaho

  Bachelor of Science - BS, History, Philosophy, Minor in Religious Studies

• University of Idaho

  Master of Arts - MA, History

• University of Idaho

  Master of Science - MS, Adult, Organizational Learning and Leadership (AOLL)

• University of Idaho

  Graduate Certificate, Human Resource Development

• Marine Corps University

  Expeditionary Warfare School - Distance Education Program