Born and raised in Anchorage, Alaska, Commander Pearce graduated from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in 2007, earning a Bachelor of Science in Space Physics and minoring in Mathematics and Computer Science. CDR Pearce was commissioned through Officer Candidate School and reported to NAS Pensacola, FL for flight training in November 2007. He earned his Naval Aviator Wings in July 2010 out of NAS Kingsville. CDR Pearce reported to the VAQ-129 "Vikings" in September for initial fleet training in the EA-18G Growler.

CDR Pearce began operational flying in September 2011 with the World Famous "Black Ravens" of VAQ-135. During the summer of 2012 he deployed to Bagram AFB, Afghanistan flying combat missions in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM. Following his tour with the "Black Ravens" CDR Pearce was selected to attend the Airborne Electronic Attack Weapons School at Naval Aviation Warfighting Development Center in NAS Fallon. Upon completion of the course, earning his Growler Tactics Instructor qualification, he returned back to NAS Whidbey Island and joined the Electronic Attack Weapons School.

In December 2016, CDR Pearce reported to the VAQ-131 "Lancers" as their Training Officer. While a Lancer, he deployed in early 2017 with Carrier Air Group Eight aboard the USS GEORGE H.W. BUSH (CVN 77). During this deployment, CDR Pearce flew combat missions supporting Operation Inherent Resolve and Operation Enduring Freedom. 

Following his time as a Lancer, CDR Pearce transferred to the "Patriots" of VAQ-140 as a Department Head. While with the Patriots, he completed another combat deployment with Carrier Air Group Seven aboard USS ABRAHAM LINCOLN (CVN 72)  in support of Operation Freedom's Sentinel. During his tour with VAQ-140, he served as the Squadron's Maintenance, Admin, and Safety Officer and completed his Master of Science degree in Systems Engineering through the Naval Postgraduate School.

After his department head tour, CDR Pearce served as an action officer in the J8 Directorate at United States Strategic Command (USSTRATCOM). CDR Pearce worked as the Advocacy Officer for Electromagnetic Warfare and Joint Simulation Training and was USSTRATCOM's lead advisor for multiple Joint Requirements Oversight Councils and advocated for funding through multiple President's Budget Request (PBR) cycles

CDR Pearce is joining VAQ-138 "Yellow Jackets" in November 2024 as the Executive Officer. Over his career, he has accumulated over 2,000 flight hours in the EA-18G, including 80 combat missions and over 400 hours of combat flight time. His awards include the Strike/Flight Air Medal (4 awards), Joint Service Commendation Medal, Navy Commendation Medal (3 awards), Navy/Marine Corps Achievement Medals, and various service awards and ribbons.

Last Updated: 26 November 2024