Every great career begins with a foundation built on service, discipline and heart – and for Darrel Kalinski, these values have guided every chapter of his life.
From the sports fields of his youth to the operating rooms of major hospitals, his story is one of dedication, resilience and a constant pursuit of excellence.
“I’ve always believed that you have to do something with integrity and purpose,” Kalinski says. “This principle has carried me through every phase of my life – from the Navy to healthcare to fatherhood.”
Early discipline and a lifelong commitment to learning
Born at 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. While in school, he played football, basketball and baseball, learning the power of focus, consistency and leadership.
“Sport taught me more than just competition,” he remembers. “They taught me to take responsibility. You can’t win if you’re not willing to put in the work.”
The same work ethic characterized his early career. His first job at Publix, where he worked for five years, taught him the importance of discipline and customer service. But even then, Kalinski knew he wanted more – a career that combined science, physical prowess and service to others.
After earning a 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 exercise science. He later served as an assistant strength and conditioning coach at Jacksonville University, helping college athletes reach their peak performance.
“I loved this job,” he says. “It was about helping people achieve what they didn’t think was possible – cross boundaries safely and see the results.”
Answering a New Call: The Path to Nursing and the U.S. Navy
While working with athletes, Kalinski became fascinated with the science of recovery and care – how the body heals after stress or injury. This curiosity led him back to the classroom. He returned to the University of North Florida, this time to pursue a bachelor’s degree in nursing with the help of a scholarship from the U.S. Navy Nurse Candidate Program.
“It was one of the biggest decisions of my life,” he says. “The Navy gave me the opportunity to serve my country while developing skills that truly save lives.”
Kalinski was commissioned as a United States Naval Officer and served six distinguished years as a Navy nurse, earning the rank of Lieutenant (O-3). His military experience shaped not only his clinical skills but also his leadership style.
“In the Navy, you quickly learn that leadership is not about authority, but about example,” he explains. “You have to stay calm under pressure. People depend on you to stay calm, especially in difficult moments.”
A Career in Anesthesiology: Precision and Purpose
After his service, Kalinski used his post-9/11 GI Bill to earn a Master of Science in Nursing and became a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) – the highest clinical degree in the nursing profession.
“This is the pinnacle of what you can achieve as a nurse,” he says. “Anesthesia requires absolute concentration. It’s about balancing science, experience and intuition.”
Kalinski then worked in hospitals and medical centers throughout Florida, including Orange Park Medical Center and Borland Groover, as well as in independent contract roles. Over his 12 years in the operating room, he has built a reputation for technical precision, calm leadership and compassionate care.
He remains a Florida board-certified advanced practice nurse and an active voting member of several major professional organizations, including the National Board of Certification and Recertification for Nurse Anesthetists (NBCRNA), the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists (AANA), and the Florida Association of Nurse Anesthetists.
“Being a part of these organizations keeps me fit,” he says. “Medicine is constantly evolving and it is my responsibility to evolve with it.”
Faith, family and leadership beyond medicine
Outside of work, Kalinski is a husband, father, and dedicated member of the Church of Eleven22, where he serves in various ministries. He helps lead a 70-member men’s discipleship group, teaches in the Kids Ministry and mentors youth in the Student Ministry.
“I learned that leadership in the church is no different than leadership in healthcare,” he says. “In both places, you listen first, guide gently, and show grace when people are struggling.”
He also volunteers on the church’s Care and Respond teams, offering prayer and support to individuals and families in crisis. “It’s humbling work,” he adds. “You meet people in some of their most difficult moments and remind them that they are not alone.”
When he’s not serving or working, Kalinski enjoys running, training and coaching his son in flag football and soccer – something he calls “the highlight of his week.”
“Being a father is my greatest joy,” he says. “Watching my son learn teamwork and perseverance brings me full circle.”
A legacy of service and strength
At every stage of his journey – athlete, soldier, nurse and mentor – Darrel Kalinski has held fast to the same core values: faith, excellence and service to others.
“I don’t think success has anything to do with titles or recognition,” he reflects. “It’s about using your gifts to make a difference – wherever you are, with whatever you have.”
His life reminds us that true leadership is not about power or prestige. It’s about presence – showing up, remaining steadfast and supporting others along the way.
