Growing up in San Francisco, in the shadow of Starfleet Command, Alexander knew where he would end up. Entering Starfleet Academy at 18, he spent the next four years learning everything he could. He graduated 3rd in his class. He could have gotten a higher placing, but didn't do as well in some classes as in others. He reported to have told his Guidance Counselor," I don't want steer the ship, or command the ship, or shoot at things with the ship. I just want the engines. That's all."

Maxwell entered the Daystrom Institute upon the recommendation of the Commandant of Starfleet Academy. He spent the next two years learning from the best minds in the UFP. Most notable of his time there was when, during a lecture, he challenged the theories of improved warp propulsion by Dr. Leah Brahms (She later autographed his copy of Transwarp Theory).

Maxwell was posted aboard the USS Argo as his first starship. In a position of Assistant Engineer's Mate, Maxwell was able to get in close to most of the ship's operations. Five months into his tour, Chief Engineer McMurdock suffered a severe nervous breakdown and had to be unstrapped from the main warp core. needless to say, Maxwell was promoted to Assistant Chief Engineer and Lieutenant.

His next posting was with the Klingon/Starfleet exchange program. He was stationed aboard the IKC Dor'Va, a Vor'cha class battlecruiser. He spent almost nine months onboard and for a while, even took a klingon girlfriend (a truly enlightening experience).

His current position was received two months ago, and is with the newly-refitted USS Excelsior NCC-2000A. He has spent the time since arriving, learning the ship and its engines. He fully believes the ship is ready for anything the galaxy can throw at her.