Somewhere in between lower decks and high ranks lies a mysterious land, full of Lieutenants and Lieutenant Commanders. They make up the backbone of the Fleet, leading departments, joining task forces, and giving Lower Deckers a hard time. However, they have been overlooked by interviews recently and don’t often get the credit they deserve. This new series Rising Through the Ranks aims to change that!
These interviews will focus on the journey, growth and character development that happens as Lower Decks is left behind but Command is not quite in sight yet. We will also be taking this opportunity to find out what it’s like to write for particular duty posts, lead a department, write without the training wheels of mentorship, and make plans for career advancement.
Today we’ve asked Lieutenant Commander Nathan Richards, a male, Human and the Chief of Ops on the Amity Outpost to share their experience.
S. Richards: Hello Nathan! It has been a little while since we have heard from you. Give us an update! Anything fun and new happening for you OOC?
N. Richards: Can’t say there is too much exciting going on. Working, simming, and spending time with the family. You know, normal adult stuff.
What do you miss the most about being a lower decker and what advice do you have for those eager to move up in rank?
N. Richards: Sometimes I miss the simplicity of it. Focusing on the character and not so much the responsibilities that come with rising rank. The one thing I can say to those eager and seeking promotion, is just enjoy the journey. You know how the old saying goes. It’s not the destination, it’s the journey. And the friends you make along the way or something like that.
How have things changed for you and Nathan since becoming a Department Chief?
N. Richards: Being in charge of a department and the characters who occupy that department has been interesting. Playing for and against everyone’s strengths and weaknesses to bring out the most interesting and entertaining story has been a fun experience.
Are there any hurdles you’ve had to overcome to make it this far? If so, what was the biggest one?
N. Richards: I wouldn’t say there were any real hurdles. Just staying consistent and putting your all into the character and story and showing the initiative to move up. It’s been a wild and fun ride.
We’ve heard some rumors that Nathan has had some big life changes recently! How are things going between Nathan and Robin Hopper?
N. Richards: They are going good. I don’t think it’s much of a rumor anymore, but we are expecting to be writing a wedding a little later this year. Adding onto the pile of weddings that have already taken place around the fleet as I’ve heard. But beyond that, who knows. We’re just taking it day by day, sim by sim.
Thanks for your time, Lieutenant Commander Nathan Richards!
You can read more about Lieutenant Commander Nathan Richards on the wiki.
