2024 STEM Hero Honorees

Education:  Associate of Applied Science in Business Administration, Logistics  Management, Community College of the Air Force; Airman Leadership School; NCO Academy.

As an Air Force Master Sergeant, Therrion Grooms is an exemplary leader who consistently goes above and beyond the call of duty with selfless contributions to the military and the wider San Antonio community where he is based. 

A motivated and results-oriented logistics professional, including extensive experience as a Basic Military Training instructor, MSgt Grooms supervises 22 military training instructors and 1,600 trainees, instilling in them the fundamental skills and values necessary for military service at Lackland Air Force Base.

 MSgt Grooms also was instrumental in addressing mental health concerns among recruits. Through his keen awareness and proactive approach, he’s facilitated a decisive 35% reduction in waiver denials for recruits. This ensures that individuals with potential mental health concerns receive appropriate support, strengthening the overall well-being of our military personnel.

Within the Special Warfare program, MSgt Grooms has proven to be an invaluable asset. Tasked with resolving PT attendance conflicts, he meticulously designed and implemented new standard operating procedures. His transformative work resulted in a phenomenal 99% PT average score, 100% attendance, and six 737 TRG Physical Training awards.

MSgt Grooms  is not just a model Airman; he is a pillar of the community.   His innovative approach to U.S. citizenship processing led to an impressive 83% decrease in average processing time, reducing wait times from 8 months to a mere 4 weeks. This not only improved efficiency but also directly contributed to exceeding recruitment goals by a significant 130 recruits.

MSgt Grooms also leads an outreach program that has provided critical support to local children and families facing adversity.  As youth basketball coach, he has inspired and mentored countless youth, teaching the value of teamwork, discipline, and perseverance.  He also works with local organizations like Child Safe to organize a “Back to School Bash” to fund critical support for 5,000 children facing abuse and demonstrates his dedication to creating a safe and nurturing  environment for San Antonio's most vulnerable youth.