Worcester Business Journal

30 Worcester Business Journal | November 16, 2026 | wbjournal.com Why did you choose the Navy? My interest in the Navy began with the stories my father shared about my grandfather's service as a sonar opera- tor aboard a submarine during World War II. Hearing those stories as I grew up gave me a lasting respect for my grandfather, his generation and their service to our country. My older brother's service as an en- listed sailor further strengthened that connection and gave me a firsthand sense of what Navy service meant. As I pursued my bachelor of science in me- chanical engineering at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, that early interest in the Navy grew into a clear path forward. I saw an opportunity to apply the engineering principles I was studying while continuing my family's tradition of service and contributing to something larger than myself. What is it like to serve on a submarine? Life aboard a submarine is demand- ing, but it is also deeply rewarding. Crews spend their days training, maintaining the ship, and preparing to carry out the mission, while still making time to exercise, unwind, and build the camaraderie that is essential to life aboard a submarine. e first dive is unforgettable, but before long, the routine and pace of life aboard the boat make being un- derwater feel entirely normal. What roles have you had in the Navy, and what did each involve? Over the past 20 years, I have served in a range of submarine leader- ship roles, beginning as an engineer- ing division officer aboard a ballistic missile submarine. In addition to leading my division, I led watch teams responsible for operating and main- taining the propulsion plant and later for driving the ship and carrying out its missions. at first tour taught me the value of trust and teamwork through the exceptional sailors with whom I served. I later completed my department head tour as the navigation and opera- tions officer aboard a fast-attack subma- rine in Pearl Harbor, and served as the executive officer aboard a guided-mis- sile submarine in Kings Bay, Georgia. Each assignment reinforced my respect for the skill and professionalism of our sailors, but serving as the executive offi- cer was especially fulfilling; the position gave me the opportunity to be closely involved in every aspect of the com- mand and to have a direct, meaningful influence on the professional develop- ment and well-being of the sailors and families we served. While my tour as the executive officer was one of the most rewarding assignments of my career, it was also among the most challenging. e role required balancing a demand- ing operational schedule with the responsibility to care for sailors and support their families, oen amid rapidly changing circumstances that created uncertainty. It reinforced the importance of clear communication, flexibility and teamwork. Although I could not remove every obstacle facing the crew, I was con- tinually impressed by their resilience, professionalism, and commitment to one another. Together, we worked through those challenges, remained focused on the mission and accom- plished what was required. You recently assumed command of SRS 32. What is the mission of SRS 32 and what are your responsibilities? As the commanding officer of Submarine Readiness Squadron 32, my focus is to ensure our submari- ners and the commands that support them have what they need to succeed. SRS 32 centralizes administrative and functional support for Submarine Squadrons 2, 4, and 12, providing a common pool of experts that helps the squadrons use resources efficient- ly while remaining focused on their operational missions. U .S. Navy Cmdr. Matthew Braden, a native of New Braintree, recently took command of Submarine Readiness Squadron (SRS) 32 during a ceremony at Naval Submarine Base New London in Groton, Connecticut. e 20-year Navy veteran has served in many leadership roles on submarines. Braden talked to the Worcester Business Journal about his current assignment and why he joined the military. He also explained why Navy sailors are well-prepared for business. Navy commander explains why sailors are well prepared for the workplace Our team of approximately 60 professionals provides specialized logistics, medical, spiritual, legal and administrative support in areas beyond the primary operational responsibilities of submariners. My experience at sea helps me provide leadership and guidance to the SRS 32 professionals who deliver that support, while ensuring we remain focused on the needs of the sailors, families and commands we serve. Nuclear-powered submarines are extraordinary technological systems, but their success depends on the men and women who operate and main- tain them. Ensuring sailors and their families are cared for is essential to readiness and to the success of the commands we support. Do you think military veterans enter the civilian workplace better prepared to do business? If so, why? e Navy prepares sailors exception- ally well for success beyond military service. roughout my career, I have seen sailors develop the technical expertise, discipline, adaptability, and professionalism needed to operate in demanding environments and solve complex problems as part of a team. ey learn to communicate clearly, lead with accountability, and remain focused on the mission even when circumstances change quickly. Just as importantly, they understand the value of trust, teamwork, and taking care of the people around them. ose qual- ities are valuable in any organization and provide a strong foundation for success in the business world and in whatever career path they choose. is Q&A was conducted and edited for length and clarity by WBJ Editor Mark Conti. W PHOTO | COURTESY Cmdr. Matthew Braden U.S. Navy commander Submarine Readiness Squadron 32 Hometown: New Braintree. Education: Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, University of Massachusetts Amherst Years in Navy: 20 Cmdr. Matthew Braden

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