Plechash ’75 is a highly accomplished leader whose career spans military service, business, and extensive civic engagement. A first-generation American, Plechash graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1975 with distinction, earning a B.S. in Aerospace Engineering and recognition as the top-ranking Marine selectee in his class. Commissioned into the U.S. Marine Corps, he underwent elite flight training – including qualification as a TOPGUN fighter pilot – and served with distinction for over two decades. During his Marine Corps career, he led units in complex operational environments, flew the F-4 Phantom II jet and rose to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel before retiring after Operation Desert Storm. His military service was marked by excellence in leadership and tactics, as well as a deep commitment to mentoring junior Marines.
Following his military retirement, Plechash transitioned to the business world, where he applied his leadership and analytical skills as a senior executive. He held management roles at major corporations such as Exxon and Oracle and later made his mark in finance and investment banking. His broad professional experience has honed his strategic planning, financial acumen, and organizational governance expertise. In addition to his corporate career, Plechash has been a tireless volunteer and community leader. As a Naval Academy Blue and Gold Officer for nearly twenty years, he has mentored and guided numerous young candidates through the Academy’s admissions process, reflecting his passion for developing future military leaders. He also served three terms as a National Trustee of the USNA Alumni Association, during which he was an active member of the Board’s governance committee, helping to shape policies and uphold the Association’s mission and bylaws.
Residing in Minneapolis, MN, Plechash has been a driving force in alumni engagement across the Upper Midwest. He served nearly a decade as president of the Upper Midwest Chapter of the Alumni Association, during which he dramatically increased membership and program offerings. Under his leadership, the chapter grew to become one of the largest globally and earned the inaugural “Chapter of the Year” award. He also remains active in veteran and civic organizations – including serving multiple terms on the Wayzata City Council – demonstrating dedication to public service. Plechash’s blend of military, corporate and community leadership, coupled with his prior Board of Trustees experience, makes him uniquely qualified to contribute to strategic governance, membership growth and Academy outreach initiatives.