Alumni Achievement Award. This award is given to a GMC alumnus who recognizes the importance of their education at GMC and exemplifies the core values of “Duty, Honor, Country” and “Character Above All” in their professional and personal lives. Their interest and loyalty is evident through their contributions of time, talents, and/or philanthropic support to GMC.
The life of Major Monte Washburn (Ret) deeply reflects the Georgia Military College core values of “Duty, Honor, Country.” He has displayed these values in both his service to the Nation and through his many achievements in the civilian sector.
Monte’s education includes a Bachelor of Science from Park University, a Master of Education from Boston University, a Master of Science from Columbia Pacific University, and an Executive Master of Business Administration from Wichita State University. His academic pursuits were in the fields of computer science, artificial intelligence, and business. Monte is a certified Project Management Professional and a Distinguished Toastmaster as well.
Monte enlisted in the U.S. Army in November of 1977 to be part of the 1st Battalion, 75th Rangers. Afterwards he was assigned to the 2/21st Infantry Battalion. He had planned to leave at the completion of his enlisted contract but was encouraged to attended Officers Candidate School. He was then assigned to Armor branch and served with the 4th Battalion 68th Armor, 3rd Armored Calvary Regiment, the Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers, and at Combat Developments for the Chemical Corps.
Monte feels that his most significant contribution during his military service was his work on the development of a new Nuclear Planning System for the NATO theater, with a NATO security clearance of Cosmic Top Secret ATOMAL. During his service, Monte was recognized for several distinguished achievements, to include the Meritorious Service Medal and Joint Services Commendation Medal. After the Gulf War, Monte separated from active duty and completed his military career in the Army Reserves.
Washburn is not shy when telling others that his GMC education prepared him for his immense success in his civilian career. After leaving active duty he pursued a career in the information technology and computer science field, a field in which he has excelled greatly.
Monte’s impressive civilian career included time with Deloitte, Pizza Hut, Cargill, and Central Illinois Light Company. During this time he held various leadership positions to include project leader, manager, director, and vice president. In 1999, Monte started an information technology services company, securing a 10-million-dollar contract on the first day of business. His company, with over 50 employees, provided development projects and services to organizations including Ameren, Caterpillar, Komatsu, Boeing, Cessna, Lone Star Steakhouse and several agencies of the United States government.
In addition, Monte has shared his immense knowledge and experience with the next generation by teaching courses in computer science, math and business at the City College of Chicago, The University of Maryland, Boston University and Embry Riddle University.
Washburn is a proud GMC alumnus and is committed to helping the institution grow into the future. He has previously served on the GMC Alumni Association Board and looks forward to attending monthly gatherings for GMC Alumni in North Alabama.”
Monte lives in Decatur, Alabama with his wife, Irina. They have one daughter, Alisa.
