Tyler Gohlich acclimates to U.S. Military Academy at West Point

MADISON – Cadet Tyler Gohlich of Madison has learned to conduct himself in military aspects of daily life while simultaneously balancing a heavy academic load at the United States Military Academy at West Point.

Gohlich, a member of the Class of 2026, is in Echo Company, 1st Regiment.

During the first year of West Point, all cadets have a difficult schedule with adapting to military and studying for college courses. “Getting used to preparing a room for inspection while taking six classes was difficult at first, but, after a little while, it became second nature,” Gohlich said.

Gohlich is majoring in operations research, which is affiliated with West Point’s Math Department. He is considering eventually becoming an Operations Research Systems Analyst or ORSA for the Army after he completes some time in a combat arms branch. ORSAs perform data analysis to advise military leaders on approaches to handle the Army’s problems.

For any teenagers who are thinking about applying to West Point, Gohlich said the major prerequisite to prepare is being physically fit. “Cadets take the same physical test as the regular Army — the Army Fitness Test or AFT,” Gohlich said. “Knowing the events and working on your weaknesses before arriving can help you succeed.”

The Gohlich family moved to Madison in 2017 when Tyler’s father, David Gohlich, was stationed at Redstone Arsenal. That fall, Tyler entered eighth grade at Liberty Middle School.

Tyler’s parents, David and Heather Gohlich, have one younger son, Andrew Gohlich, who is a freshman studying computer science at the University of Michigan. “My dad works as an Operations Research Analyst at MITRE,” Tyler said.

“My dad graduated from West Point in 2000 and was my main inspiration for applying,” Tyler said. “My uncle is also a graduate.”

Tyler graduated from James Clemens High School in 2022. While at James Clemens, Tyler achieved the prestigious honor of National Merit Scholar. He was a leader in First Priority, a Christian organization, and earned the Eagle Scout rank.

Tyler was Team Captain of the Jets Cross-Country Running Team. He served as one of the Team Captains of the Jets Track Team.

After West Point, all graduates must serve five years minimum on active duty and three years on reserves in the U.S. Army. Gohlich hopes to serve as an Infantry Officer.