Additionally, for ten years Professor Kirst worked for a former Fortune 500 company, Smith International, Inc., in the global oilfield services sector. He held various roles in senior finance, marketing and operations. His last position was Corporate Vice President of Business Development. Prior to joining the CUA faculty he served as the Chief Financial Officer for the Diocese of Arlington and Chief Advancement Officer for the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA. Professor Kirst also served as a US Navy Officer for seven years, including six months in Vietnam, and later as an Intelligence Officer in the Naval Reserves. He currently serves as a Member of the CUA MSBA Advisory Board. Professor Kirst holds a B.A. in Political Science from Loyola University of Los Angeles, and an MBA from the University of Southern California. Professor Kirst also earned a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license in the State of California. He and his wife, Mary Ellen, have raised 6 children (one a CUA graduate) and reside in Washington DC.