Cullen Chamberlain, Unifi team member and Airman with the Florida Air National Guard, embodies a commitment to service that spans both his work as a Ramp and Customer Service Agent at Gainesville Regional Airport and his military responsibilities. Cullen brings a sense of duty and dedication from his service to every aspect of his job.
Originally from Fort Lauderdale, Cullen moved to Gainesville for school and enlisted in the Air National Guard to help finance his education. After graduating, he joined Unifi, initially seeing it as a temporary position while awaiting military orders. Yet, one year later, he has found a home at the airport, where his schedule remains flexible enough to accommodate his military commitments, and each day brings new stories.
“I was doing wheelchair assistance for an older lady who was flying for the first time, and she was questioning me about how everything works as I pushed her through security and to her gate,” Chamberlain said. “When we got to the counter, she asked me if I was going to come back and push her to the plane. So when boarding started, I came back and helped her again. I even carried her purse on the plane for her. She got so attached that she was hoping I would be there when she came back, but I had gotten my orders.”
In the Air National Guard, Cullen’s primary duty is to install and maintain radio frequency communications. He deploys, sustains, and repairs communications devices—including antenna systems, tuners and transmission lines—to ensure the Guards’ ability to communicate.
His first deployment occurred during Hurricane Milton, when his unit deployed to Orlando and later Fort Pierce to assist communities devastated by the storm.
“When we first got there, about 98% of the community was without power. There were some homes where all that was left was the foundation. But people were so grateful we were there,” Cullen recalls. Working 12-hour shifts, he distributed essentials like food, water, and tarps and helped elderly residents access medical tents. This experience had a lasting impact, especially witnessing the gratitude of those affected by the hurricane.
Having seen the damage from hurricanes and tornadoes firsthand, Cullen advocates for preparedness, just like the Guard: “Have your emergency supplies ready—72 hours of water, canned food, and most importantly, a battery-powered AM/FM radio so you can always get emergency broadcasts. Also, take the evacuation and need to seek shelter announcements seriously.”
Cullen’s dedication has not gone unnoticed. Known for his reliability and positive attitude, he’s punctual, always willing to pick up shifts and eager to learn.
At Unifi, we deeply value the skills and perspectives our military members like Cullen bring to our team. Their experience in leadership and teamwork aligns seamlessly with our mission to deliver excellence in aviation services.
We actively seek partnerships that reinforce our ongoing commitment to hiring those who serve our country. Our next collaboration is with the VA of Atlanta and Goodwill, and we’re honored to participate in the upcoming Veteran & Community Hiring Event on November 14.
This event represents just one part of our ongoing efforts to connect veterans with rewarding career opportunities at Unifi, where they’ll find a team that honors and values their service.
