EMU Today

YPSILANTI -- In a display of grit, determination, and unwavering commitment, Cadet Renan Martins successfully passed and graduated from the U.S. Army Sapper School, emerging as a beacon of excellence and readiness to take on the challenges of modern military officers in the Engineer Corps. Cadet Martins will graduate from the GameAbove College of Engineering and Technology in 2024 with his master of science in engineering management and a minor in military science. 

The U.S. Army Sapper School is known to be one of the most physically and mentally demanding schools currently offered in the United States Army. It is a 28-day course that teaches advanced combat techniques to skillful soldiers within the Army Corps of Engineers. From bridging gaps and demolishing obstacles to constructing field fortifications, sappers play a pivotal role in ensuring the success of military operations.

“Passing Sapper School signifies a major milestone in any soldier's military career, especially as a cadet before commissioning. This completion represents I have acquired and shown the necessary skills to lead those around me and provide hope and solutions when all other methods have been exhausted,” Martins said. 

“It provides my leadership with an understanding of what I am capable of as a soldier and allows other training and development opportunities to open up sometime soon in the future.”

Lieutenant Colonel Eli Ruesink praised Cadet Martins’ exceptional dedication and highlighted the importance of his accomplishment in today's evolving battlefield landscape. 

"Cadet Martins’ successful completion of Sapper School exemplifies the spirit of excellence that the EMU ROTC program values. As a Sapper qualified leader, he is now equipped to tackle complex challenges on the battlefield head-on and demonstrates the necessary competence that soldiers seek out from and in their leaders,” said Lieutenant Colonel Ruesink.

Cadet Martins’ success inspires all aspiring military engineers, showcasing the dedication and commitment required to excel in one of the most challenging and essential roles in the armed forces.

“I have looked up to Sappers throughout my entire time in the military and strived to be one from the beginning,” said Martins. “Having accomplished this goal has shown that the numerous months of training, rehearsals, and preparing have paid off. And most importantly, it has given me a major understanding of how incredible your mind and body can perform under stress, limited food, and sleep deprivation,” said Martins.

“I can confidently say I am an expert within my field in the military, and the tab I now wear lets others know I will always be there for them when needed.”

About the GameAbove College of Engineering and Technology
The GameAbove College of Engineering and Technology provides world-class experiences in engineering, technology, cybersecurity, autonomous vehicles, drone technology, gaming, aviation, and other areas of study in high-demand career fields. It is within the college’s mission to cultivate individuals' intellectual and personal growth through research-informed education and diverse programs that emphasize the practical application of scientific knowledge. For more information about the GameAbove College of Engineering and Technology, visit the college’s website. 

About Eastern Michigan University
Founded in 1849, Eastern is the second oldest public university in Michigan. It currently serves more than 14,000 students pursuing undergraduate, graduate, specialist, doctoral and certificate degrees in the arts, sciences and professions. In all, more than 300 majors, minors and concentrations are delivered through the University's Colleges of Arts and Sciences; Business; Education; Engineering and Technology; Health and Human Services; and its graduate school. National publications regularly recognize EMU for its excellence, diversity, and commitment to applied education. Visit the University’s rankings and points of pride websites to learn more. For more information about Eastern Michigan University, visit the University's website. To stay up to date on University news, activities and announcements, visit EMU Today.