Williams attended the United States Naval Academy, graduating in 1993 and was commissioned as an Ensign in the U.S. Navy.

Williams volunteered for and received orders for Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL training (BUD/S) at Naval Amphibious Base Coronado.

[1] Following SEAL Tactical Training (STT) and completion of six month probationary period, he received the 1130 designator as a Naval Special Warfare Officer, entitled to wear the Special Warfare insignia.

Williams volunteered for and completed a specialized selection and training course for assignment to Naval Special Warfare Development Group (NSWDG) in 2001 serving as assault troop commander, operations officer, and squadron executive officer till 2006 during which time he planned, rehearsed and operated during classified operations during Operation Enduring Freedom.

[2] Williams later earned a Master of Arts degree in National Security and Strategic Studies from the Naval War College.