Kevin Roth: Founder of Shadow Rider Media

Aviation and Service

Kevin Roth grew up in a small suburb outside of Philadelphia. He always aspired to serve in the military and had a greater calling to the world of aviation. What began with a deep admiration of Apaches and Harriers eventually led him to answer the call of the Air Force, where he would go on to serve among one of the most elite Close Air Support (CAS) platforms in existence, the AC-130.

After graduating from the Air Force ROTC program at Penn State, Kevin began his training as a Navigator at Randolph Air Force Base (AFB). His dedication and skill ultimately brought him to the AC-130U, an aircraft renowned for its precision and power, protecting ground forces in Air Force Special Operations Command. Since then, he has continued to grow throughout his career, helping to establish multiple AC-130J programs— the latest model replacing the AC-130U— at both Hurlburt Field and Cannon AFB.

A Passion for Astrophotography

Kevin continues to serve in the United States Air Force, but in 2019, he found a new creative outlet that would become a source of inspiration and purpose: astrophotography.

“I’ve always been intrigued by space and space photography. As a kid, I used to gaze in awe at the Hubble captures that NASA would release.” While living in Florida, Kevin met Dustin, an experienced astrophotographer (shoutout to @dustinsphotography!). “Dustin taught me how to get started and I became obsessed afterwards! I continued to practice and learn, and eventually wanted to share my work with friends and family.”

That passion led to the creation of Shadow Rider Media, a brand that celebrates the wonder of the universe through his lens. What began as a humble Instagram page is evolving into a growing community where Kevin shares and sells prints of his work—offering others the chance to see what many miss under the glow of city lights.

Resilience and Leadership

Kevin’s journey of resilience and leadership is grounded in one important truth: we can learn something from every experience, even if it’s what not to do.

“In my time in the military, I’ve met and worked with a lot of really great people,” Kevin reflects. “But I’ve also encountered individuals who had a negative effect on my life. Those experiences taught me the kind of leader I want to be.”

Sometimes these experiences show us what we don’t want to become. This perspective is one so many of us can relate to, both inside and outside the military. Leadership challenges often teach us just as much, if not more, than leadership successes.

Taking the time in these situations to consider what leadership means to you matters. Focusing on the kind of person we want to be and not allowing the negative to define you.

“It’s always important to remember that you are so much more than your shortcomings or what others try to box you in as. I’ve learned that people’s negative actions often stem from fear, insecurity, or self-interest — and letting their behavior dictate my outlook only gives them power.”

Resilience to Kevin means refusing to dwell in negativity and using every challenge as fuel to keep moving forward. He believes it takes discipline, repetition, and faith, trusting that anyone can strengthen their resilience by trusting themselves through God.

Kevin’s story shows that defining moments rarely come from a single chapter of life. Sometimes, purpose reveals itself in unexpected ways. His goal now is to continue traveling and capturing the night sky, sharing its beauty with others. He reminds us that often, wonder can be found right in our own backyard, if we just look up.