Captain Mark Robert Sickert is a native of Michigan and holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Metallurgical Engineering from Michigan Technological University, a Masters of Arts Degree in Strategic Studies from the Naval War College and is a graduate of the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program.

Following commissioning via AOCS in February 1981 and designation as a naval aviator in January 1982, Captain Sickert was assigned to HS-2 where he completed two WESTPAC/Indian Ocean deployments aboard USS KITTY HAWK.
In July 1985, he assumed duties as Aide and Administrative Assistant to the Chief of Staff, CINCUSNAVEUR in London, England.

In July 1987, he was assigned to CVW- 6 at NAS Cecil Field, Florida as Air Wing ASW Officer where he completed two Mediterranean deployments aboard USS FORRESTAL and flew with HS-15. Immediately following this tour Captain Sickert joined HS-8 in April 1990 at NAS North Island, California and completed one WESTPAC/Indian Ocean deployment as squadron Operations Officer in support of OPERATION DESERT SHIELD aboard USS INDEPENDENCE.

In July 1992, Captain Sickert assumed duties as the Helicopter Shore Detailer at the Bureau of Naval Personnel. He completed his tour in the Aviation Officer Distribution Division as Assistant Captain Detailer and then assumed duties as Aide to the Chief of Naval Personnel.

In June 1998, Captain Sickert assumed command of HS-14 forward deployed in Atsugi Japan and completed two Arabian Gulf deployments aboard USS INDEPENDENCE and USS KITTY HAWK in support of OPERATION SOUTHERN WATCH. During Captain Sickert's command tenure HS-14 earned two consecutive Battle Efficiency awards.

In November 1999 Captain Sickert reported to the Naval War College in Newport, Rhode Island. Following completion of his studies in November 2000 Captain Sickert entered the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program. Captain Sickert is currently the Executive Officer of USS JOHN C. STENNIS (CVN-74).

Captain Sickert has been awarded the Meritorious Service Medal with two gold stars, the Navy Commendation Medal with three gold stars, the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal with three gold stars as well as numerous unit and campaign awards. Additionally, Captain Sickert has accumulated nearly 3000 flight hours in H-3 and H-60 series helicopters.