Student Anthony strikes a confident, veteran-inspired pose, reflecting strength and professionalism.

(Photo by: Khadeeja Saleem)

Precision has always been a part of Anthony Rima’s life. From the Air Force all the way to his work here at JCCC, Rima has worked as a confident, resilient leader, as well as a team player.

During his four years in the United States Air Force, Rima served as an Aircraft Armament Systems technician, where he worked on F-16 fighter jets. An Aircraft Armament Systems Technician’s responsibilities are to load, unload and position munitions onto aircraft, check and test systems, inspect parts that may be disassembled and more.

“The work was demanding and high stakes, but it taught me discipline, resilience, and confidence in my ability to solve complex problems under pressure,” Rima said. “More than anything, military service gave me a strong sense of purpose and a foundation of leadership that continues to shape how I approach school, service and my future career.”

Rima is attending JCCC to earn his general science degree before transferring into a mechanical engineering program. In his professional career, he hopes to push for innovation in areas such as prosthetics, exoskeletons, robotics and clean energy systems.

“My long-term goal is to work on engineering solutions that improve quality of life and push technology forward in meaningful ways,” Rima said.

While keeping his options open, he’s aiming high as he applies to different programs.

“I know a lot of people in the office and outside the office look up to him and feel inspired by the good work he’s doing not just in the office, but in his own academics,” Gianni Trook, Vice President of Communications for the JCSVA, said.

As a member of JC Student Veterans of America, Peer Advisors for Veterans Education and Student Senate, Rima is always willing to step up and get it done with a smile on his face. Last year, when the President of JCSVA had to step down, Rima stepped up and filled the role.

“A lot of us wore many hats that semester, but Anthony wore the most hats, and he did it really well,” Trook said. “He’s a very dependable person. I want people to know that.”

Within JCSVA, Rima works to create spaces for veterans to connect, find support and stay involved. With PAVE, he mentors student veterans as they navigate campus life. In the Student Senate, he works to represent student voices, manage budgets and support campus life initiatives.

“Each role taught me that leadership is less about position and more about showing up for people,” Rima said.