Rick J. Stephas currently resides in the countryside near the small town of Bronson, Iowa. A loving husband to Emily Stephas and father to Leighton, Beau, and Garret. He grew up on a farm near Spencer, Iowa with three brothers where he raised horses. During high school Rick was active in all sports: Football, basketball, baseball and track. Rick attended college at Iowa Lakes Community college where he earned an Associated of Arts degree in Aviation/Airport Management and obtained his private pilots license. Furthering his college education, he transferred to Iowa State University where he obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Forestry/Ecosystem Management. After college Rick received a commission in the United States Marine Corps and served on active duty (2010-2013) and in the Selected Marine Corps Reserve (2014-2018). While in the Marine Corps he served with the 1^st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, 4^th Marine Logistics Group, and 4^th Marine Air Wing. Having one deployment to Afghanistan (2012-2013) where he trained and advised foreign security forces. Post service, Rick has been employed with MidAmerican Energy where he performs as an Operations Shift Manager at a power generating station near Sioux City, Iowa. During his down time, Rick enjoys traveling, fishing, horseback riding, and spending time with his family outdoors.