Kurtis Hatherly, a proud graduate of Pahrump Valley High School’s Class of 2014, has traveled a long and rewarding journey from his small-town roots to a distinguished career in the U.S. Army. Today, Kurtis serves as an Indirect Fire Infantryman (11C) and Army recruiter, helping others find purpose and direction, just as he once did.
During his time at PVHS, Kurtis was shaped by the relationships he built with teachers, coaches, and peers. While he doesn’t recall a single standout moment from high school, he treasures the positive influences that surrounded him. “I was very blessed to have a ton of positive influences in my life which steered me in the right direction,” he said. Among those who left a lasting impression were Jenn Shockley, Mr. and Mrs. Funk, and Coaches Rieger and Clayton. Their mentorship gave him a foundation of discipline and resilience, traits he would rely on in his career and personal life.
In high school, Kurtis was an early graduate and spent a year playing football, experiences that taught him the value of teamwork and perseverance. The lessons he learned on the field and in the classroom still guide him today. Though he no longer lives in Pahrump, Kurtis maintains his connection to PVHS by serving as the Army recruiter for the school, helping current students explore the opportunities he once found.
After graduating, Kurtis moved to Las Vegas, where he initially worked in what he described as a “dead-end job.” He soon realized he wanted more from life. With his older brother already serving in the Army, Kurtis began researching his options, speaking with recruiters from every branch of the military. Ultimately, he felt most aligned with the Army’s atmosphere and sense of camaraderie, a decision that would change the course of his life.
He began his military journey with One Station Unit Training (OSUT) at Fort Benning, Georgia, which combined basic training and Advanced Individual Training into a single cycle. This rigorous program prepared him for the challenges of his first assignment at Fort Lewis, Washington, where he spent two years. His career then took him to Fort Bliss, Texas, for three years, during which he completed a seven-month deployment to South Korea. In 2022, Kurtis returned to Nevada as a recruiter, a role that allows him to share his experiences and mentor the next generation of soldiers.
Throughout his career, Kurtis has amassed numerous awards and accolades, but he considers his greatest achievements to be the relationships he has built and the soldiers he has mentored. “The soldiers I’ve overseen are going to be the individuals who continue my legacy after I’ve left a location,” he said. His work as a recruiter has been particularly meaningful, as it allows him to guide others toward new opportunities and watch their confidence grow. “The ability to help people start their lives or restart their lives and see their demeanor change for the better is incredibly rewarding,” he added.
Growing up, Kurtis faced significant challenges that shaped his resilience and leadership skills. As the eldest of several brothers, he was forced to mature quickly and take on the role of a mentor at a young age. “Growing up, we didn’t have the best childhood. I was forced to mature at a very young age and, being their big brother, I had to lead by example,” he said. His efforts to be a positive influence for his siblings naturally pushed him to strive for excellence in his own life, a trait that continues to drive him.
Through his military service, Kurtis has learned the importance of adaptability and self-reflection. One of the most valuable lessons he has taken away is the ability to accept feedback, both positive and negative. “The most important lesson I’ve learned throughout my career is to learn to take criticism,” he shared. This willingness to grow and improve has been instrumental in his success.
Outside of his military duties, Kurtis is deeply committed to his family. Married to his high school sweetheart, Emily, he cherishes their life together with their daughter Madison and their two dogs, Zeus and Lilly. Balancing his responsibilities as a soldier and a family man requires careful time management, but Kurtis is intentional about prioritizing his loved ones. “When you’re off, you’re off,” he said, emphasizing the importance of being present with his family. In his current role as a recruiter, he appreciates the flexibility to adjust his schedule and ensure quality time with Emily and Madison.
Kurtis also pursues personal interests, including his passion for fitness. An aspiring powerlifter, he is preparing to compete in the near future, channeling his discipline and determination into this new challenge. He is also working toward a Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity with a focus on Digital Forensics, a field he sees as essential in today’s world. While he doesn’t plan to leave the Army anytime soon, Kurtis envisions a second career in federal cybersecurity after his military retirement, with the goal of securing a second pension for his family.
Though his career has taken him far from Pahrump, Kurtis remains connected to his hometown and community. In addition to his work with PVHS, he volunteers with JROTC programs at high schools in Las Vegas and participates in community events as a member of the Color Guard team. His dedication to service extends beyond the military, reflecting his commitment to giving back and supporting others.
As Kurtis looks to the future, he is excited about upcoming opportunities, including attending Air Assault training next March, a goal he has long aspired to achieve. This next step in his military career represents another milestone in a journey defined by resilience, mentorship, and the pursuit of excellence.
Kurtis’s story is one of determination, growth, and the lasting impact of positive influences. From his days at PVHS to his current role as a mentor and leader in the Army, he exemplifies the power of perseverance and the importance of giving back. His journey serves as an inspiration for others, showing that with hard work and a willingness to adapt, it is possible to achieve greatness while staying true to one’s values.
