The Corps of Engineers also provides engineering assistance following natural disasters, regulates work in the nation's waterways and wetlands, conducts research and development, serves as the Army and Air Force real estate agent, and provides engineering services to 60 other federal agencies. Most recently, Maj. Gen. Flowers graduated from the Virginia Military Institute and was commissioned as a second lieutenant in 1969. He then completed ranger and airborne training. His civilian and military education includes a master's degree in civil engineering from the University of Virginia, the Engineer Basic and Advanced Courses, Command and General Staff College, and the National War College.
Flowers is a registered professional engineer in Virginia.