STORY CITY, Iowa — On a cold November day in 2007, deep in the mountains of Afghanistan, Kain Schilling’s life changed forever. While serving with the 173rd Airborne, Schilling was wounded in combat. The injuries he sustained ended his military career, but not his commitment to service.
"One of my good friends received the Medal of Honor for saving my life that day," Schilling shares, recalling the heroism of Kyle White, with whom he attended the award ceremony.
In fact, Schilling was wounded twice during his time in the military, receiving two Purple Hearts and two Bronze Stars, including one for Valor. Those experiences, and so many more, forged the principle that continues to guide Schilling today: put people first.
Upon returning home, Schilling began a new chapter as a security officer at the Duane Arnold Energy Center in 2008. He quickly discovered a company culture mirroring his personal values.
When Duane Arnold shut down in 2020, Schilling and his family relocated to Story City for his wife’s medical career. Finding NextEra Energy again felt like destiny.
"I really enjoyed working for NextEra Energy," he explains. "When I saw the company in my little town in rural Iowa, I was really excited. I was happy to return."
Schilling joined the NextEra Energy Power Generation Division, starting as a warehouse supervisor. Drawing on his military experience, he focused on building trust and fostering collaboration.
Today, as part of the company’s Generation Repair Services (GRS) team, Schilling manages inventory for production operations during a major facility expansion.
"The ability to build trust quickly and maintain clear communication has proven invaluable," he says, reflecting on the lessons he learned in combat that now shape his work.
Outside of work, Schilling dedicates his time to his wife and two children, ages 13 and 8—shuttling between gymnastics meets and soccer games. He previously coached his son’s soccer team, finding joy in mentoring young athletes.
Veterans Day holds deep meaning for Schilling, coming just two days after the anniversary of his injury in combat.
"I reflect on what those guys did," he shares, remembering the friends and fellow soldiers lost during his deployment. For Schilling, the day serves as a quiet moment of connection with those who survived and remembrance of those who didn’t return.
