Warrant Officer Jenna L. Russell embodies resilience, leadership and service, balancing a 21-year Army Reserve career with an unwavering commitment to her community. From enlisting in 2003 to becoming a Warrant Officer, her career has been defined by mentorship, perseverance, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Currently assigned to the 3-378th BCT BN, 95th TD, 108th TC in Norman, Oklahoma, she is furthering her expertise while attending Warrant Officer Basic Course (WOBC).

Russell’s path to the Warrant Officer Cohort is a testament to her dedication and willingness to step outside her comfort zone. Initially set on reaching Sergeant Major, she pivoted toward becoming a Human Resources Technician (420A) after recognizing the opportunities it presented for career progression. Her journey has included assignments as Drill Sergeant, Company First Sergeant, Brigade S-1 NCOIC, BN S1 HR Tech, and HHC Commander, along with mobilization in support of Operation Enduring Freedom at 95th Division HQs. Her exceptional leadership was recognized at Warrant Officer Candidate School (WOCS), where she earned Distinguished Honor Graduate and the prestigious Iron Warrant award.

Beyond her military career, Russell’s dedication to community service is just as profound. She actively engages in disaster relief efforts, organizes donations for tornado victims, and supports local schools through educational programs. Following the devastating November tornado in Oklahoma City, she personally donated eight truckloads of essential items to families in need. She also volunteers with the Koda Foundation, neighborhood watch programs, and local CrossFit competitions, helping to strengthen and inspire those around her.

As a single parent, Russell has demonstrated that balancing military service, personal growth, and family is possible with determination and support. She holds a CrossFit Level 1 certification and volunteers as a competition judge, reinforcing her belief in the importance of physical and mental resilience. She has also worked with local schools, teaching elementary students about the American flag and its significance.

Currently attending WOBC, Russell is shaping her future in the Warrant Officer Cohort while mentoring the next generation of Soldiers. She has already helped multiple Soldiers prepare for Warrant Officer Candidate School (WOCS) and continues to lead by example. Through her career, service, and dedication to others, she stands as a model of what it means to be a Warrant Officer—both in uniform and beyond.

Question: Your journey to becoming a Warrant Officer has been marked by leadership and perseverance. What motivated you to take the next step in your career, and how has the transition to the Warrant Officer Cohort challenged and inspired you?

Russell: I was on my third look for the Sergeants Major Academy, and with 42As being over strength, my best friend—who is a Warrant Officer—suggested I explore that path for career progression. At first, I was hesitant; I had never envisioned myself becoming a Warrant Officer, as my plan was always to make E-9. However, I’ve learned that stepping into discomfort often leads to the most growth. Every time I’ve taken a leap into the unknown, my career has flourished. Now, as a Warrant Officer, I approach challenges differently, researching regulations thoroughly, offering multiple courses of action rather than a single directive, and ensuring that the right decisions are being made based on doctrine.

Question: You are currently attending the Warrant Officer Basic Course (WOBC). What has been the most valuable lesson you have learned so far, and what advice would you give to Soldiers preparing to attend?

Russell: The most important lesson is to take time for yourself and trust that your unit can function without you. I see Soldiers trying to manage both their duties at home and their coursework here, and they end up burning out. I used to be one of those Soldiers. WOBC is an intense learning experience, and the best way to succeed is to stay focused on the present. Regulations are your best friend, so read everything carefully. If something isn’t clear, don’t hesitate to ask for help, even if others seem to understand. Also, make sure you have all your uniforms squared away before you arrive; being prepared ahead of time makes everything much easier.

Question: Your dedication to community service is evident through your efforts in disaster relief, youth education, and volunteer work. Why is it important for Warrant Officers to engage with their communities, and how has giving back shaped your leadership style?

Russell: Community support is vital to the success of the military, and it’s our responsibility to foster that relationship. People, especially children, look up to Soldiers, and our presence in the community leaves a lasting impression. When disaster strikes, Soldiers run toward it, that’s what we’re trained to do. When the November tornado hit my neighborhood, my military friends didn’t hesitate to show up with tools and cleanup equipment to help me and my neighbors rebuild. That experience reinforced my belief in selfless service and the importance of taking care of those around you. I also reflect on my early years as a Soldier, I didn’t have someone in my chain of command who I could look up to for mentorship. That motivated me to become the leader I needed when I first joined.

Question: As a former Drill Sergeant, First Sergeant, and Human Resources leader, you have mentored countless Soldiers throughout your career. How do you plan to continue mentoring and developing the next generation of Soldiers and Warrant Officers in your new role?

Russell: By continuing to lead by example and push Soldiers beyond their comfort zones. Many don’t realize their own potential until someone shows them what they are truly capable of achieving. Already, I have had two Soldiers complete Warrant Officer Candidate School, and I have two more currently working on their packets to go before the board. My goal is to continue identifying and developing future leaders, just as my mentors did for me.

Question: Many Soldiers looking to transition to the Warrant Officer Cohort worry about balancing military service, civilian careers, and personal life. How have you managed these responsibilities, and what strategies have helped you stay focused on your goals?

Russell: I couldn’t have done it alone. Family, friends, and fellow candidates played a huge role in helping me manage everything—whether it was looking after my house, caring for my son, or just providing moral support. During Warrant Officer Candidate School, teamwork was essential; we leaned on each other to get through it. Sacrificing sleep to finish assignments after my son went to bed was a regular occurrence, but it came down to one question: How bad do you want it? For me, failure and quitting were never options. That mindset kept me focused and moving forward.

Question: With 21 years of service, you have experienced numerous challenges and achievements. Looking back, what has been the most defining moment in your career, and how did it prepare you for this next chapter as a Warrant Officer?

Russell: There are two defining moments that shaped my career. The first was in 2008, I was ready to leave the Army. I was in a toxic environment, receiving poor evaluations as a 19-year-old E-5, and I just didn’t enjoy being a Soldier anymore. Then, I mobilized with a new unit, and the change in leadership and environment reignited my passion for service. No one back then could have predicted the Soldier I would become. The second defining moment was in 2023, when I submitted my Warrant Officer packet. Two months later, I made the E-9 list, ranking third on the OML. A month after that, I was selected for Warrant Officer. It was a bittersweet decision, I had finally made it to where I always wanted to be as an NCO, but I knew becoming a Warrant Officer was the right choice for my future. Now, I’m focused on seeing how far I can go and how many others I can help along the way.