William Hawkins was born on the USS Valiant. His father was a security officer and his mother was in the science department. Growing up on a starship left him knowing only a Starfleet lifestyle. Joining Starfleet was something he decided to do at an early age.

Schooling on the Valiant served him well, but once Will was old enough he decided that he would like to return to Earth to continue his education. It was there that he focused himself completely on his school work and graduated in the top 5 of his class. With his application to Starfleet Academy accepted, Will was off to further his career.

While in the Academy, Will decided to major in medice. He spent the next four years at the Academy buried in his studies, which left his social life in shambles. He had no relationships and no friends, aside from those he studied with. He was more interested in being the best officer he could be more than making new friends.

Time seemed to fly by, in Will's eyes, as he graduated from the Academy and left to attend the Starfleet Medical Academy. Again, he focused his attention on school work and studying, absorbing knowledge like a sponge. He figured he wasn't here to win a popularity contest, but he did manage to make a few friends while there.

After graduation, Will had received offers to serve aboard various ships but settled on a small medical ship. The USS Hope served mostly as a medical courier and life guard in space than anything else. William thought it would be a nice start to his career.

After 2 years on the Hope, Will came to the conclusion that his life there was rather dull. They had delivered vaccines and saved numerous lives, but Will wanted more. The only really exciting thing to happen to him was his promotion to Lt. Jg.

Secretly, Will wanted to see more action. He wanted to be in ever changing situations in the heat of battle, so when a position aboard the USS Samurai was open, Will applied and now serves there as their Chief Medical Officer.