GUEST SPEAKER: FORCM (RET) Christian Detje

FORCM (RET) Christian Detje is a distinguished military veteran and accomplished leader with over 34 years of service in the United States Navy, including five tours as a Command Master Chief. Residing in Atoka, Tennessee, he brings extensive expertise in leadership, human resources, joint operations, and project management. Renowned for transforming strategic visions into actionable outcomes, FORCM (RET) Detje has a proven record of driving operational excellence and building high-performing teams in high-pressure environments.
During his naval career, FORCM (RET) Detje served as a trusted advisor to senior leaders, including Rear Admirals and Commodores, spearheading initiatives that enhanced personnel policies, operational readiness, and international alliances. Notable achievements include revitalizing the Navy Ceremonial Guard in Washington, DC, from 60% staffing to over 100% capacity and improving enlisted selection processes at Navy Personnel Command, significantly reducing gaps at sea. His leadership in Naval Forces Korea strengthened partnerships with the South Korean Navy and Japanese Self-Defense Force through shared training and cultural engagements.

Today, FORCM (RET) Detje serves as the Operations and Maintenance Manager at Kapsch TrafficCom in Memphis, where he oversees critical TDOT projects, ensuring compliance with stringent timelines, budgets, and quality standards. He also contributes to his community as an Alderman for the Town of Atoka, shaping local governance, and as President of both the Historic Ruffin Theater and the Tipton Arts Council, where he champions community arts initiatives and drives operational modernization.
A graduate of the Naval Postgraduate School and the Naval Senior Enlisted Academy, FORCM (RET) Detje has completed the Joint Leadership Keystone Course. His dedication to mentorship, strategic planning, and operational efficiency makes him an inspiring speaker, poised to share valuable insights with the Chief Petty Officer community at this year’s dining-in event.