Darrel Kalinski: From Navy Nurse to Leader in Anesthesiology

"Every great career begins with a foundation built on service, discipline, and heart - and for Darrel Kalinski, those values have guided every chapter of his life. From the athletic fields of his youth to the operating rooms of major hospitals, his story is one of dedication, resilience, and a steady pursuit of excellence. "I've always believed that if you're going to do something, you do it with integrity and purpose," Kalinski says. "That principle has carried me through every stage of my life - from the Navy to healthcare to fatherhood.""

"Born on Andrews Air Force Base to a Marine Corps veteran, Darrel Kalinski grew up surrounded by structure, teamwork, and service. Sports quickly became his first classroom. He played football, basketball, and baseball through high school, where he learned the power of focus, consistency, and leadership. "Sports taught me more than just competition," he recalls. "They taught me accountability. You can't win if you're not willing to put in the work.""

"That same work ethic defined his early career. His first job at Publix, where he worked for five years, grounded him in the importance of discipline and customer care. But even then, Kalinski knew he wanted more - a career that combined science, physical performance, and service to others. After earning his Bachelor of Science in Exercise Physiology from the University of North Florida, he became a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) - one of the most respected credentials in sports science. He later served as an assistant strength and conditioning coach at Jacksonville University, helping collegiate athletes reach their peak performance."

Darrel Kalinski built his life around service, discipline, and compassion, applying those values across athletics, the military, and healthcare. He was born on Andrews Air Force Base to a Marine Corps veteran and learned teamwork and leadership through football, basketball, and baseball in high school. Early employment at Publix instilled discipline and customer care. Kalinski earned a B.S. in Exercise Physiology from the University of North Florida, became a CSCS, and worked as an assistant strength and conditioning coach at Jacksonville University, focusing on safely pushing athletes to reach peak performance.

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