Barbara Woodworth

 

 

WOUNDED AND DISABLED COMBAT VETERANS DEMONSTRATE HOW TEMERITY AND SKILL ON THE BATTLEFIELD TRANSLATE INTO CAREER SUCCESS.

 

COMBAT VETERANS ARE OUR NATION’S HEROES. THEY ARE THE ONES, IN THE COURSE OF THEIR SERVICE, MANY TIMES ON THE FRONT LINE, IN SOME OF THE MOST DANGEROUS PLACES, WHO BECOME INJURED, WOUNDED AND/OR DISABLED.

 

IT IS TO ALL OF THEM THAT WE, AS A NATION, OWE A DEBT OF GRATITUDE. OUR THANKS ARE DUE, AS WELL, TO THE MANY COMPANIES THAT MAKE A CONCERTED EFFORT TO HIRE THOSE WHO SERVED - IN PARTICULAR THOSE WHO MAKE A CONCENTRATED EFFORT TO HIRE THOSE WHO’VE SERVED IN BATTLE.

 

LIKE MANY DIAGNOSED WITH DISABILITIES, FORMER SERVICEMEN AND SERVICEWOMEN BRING TO THE WORKPLACE COMPETENCE, TRAINING, WORK ETHIC, ABILITY TO WORK IN TEAMS AND A DESIRE TO SERVE.

 

IN SHORT, IT’S A GOOD MIX OF TRAITS THAT TRANSLATES INTO PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL SUCCESS FOR VETERANS AND BUSINESS SUCCESS FOR THEIR EMPLOYERS, AS ATTESTED BY DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY TROOP SUPPORT, NAVY FEDERAL CREDIT UNION AND CINTAS AND THE THREE EMPLOYEES - ALL U.S. VETERANS - IN THIS ARTICLE HIGHLIGHTING WOUNDED WARRIORS.

 

DISCOVER HOW THESE INDIVIDUALS HONORABLY SERVED THEIR COUNTRY, HOW THEY BROUGHT THE SKILLS ACQUIRED IN THE MILITARY TO THEIR STATESIDE CAREERS AND WHAT ADVICE THEY CAN GIVE TO OTHERS IN THEIR JOB SEARCH. PLUS, LEARN FROM AN EMPLOYER’S PERSPECTIVE HOW COMPANIES VALUE MILITARY EXPERIENCES IN THEIR WORKPLACE.

 

PAGAN’S DLA ROLE SUPPORTS TROOPS WORLDWIDE

 

WHEN TAILORED VENDOR LOGISTICS SPECIALIST WILLIAM PAGAN HEADS TO WORK EACH DAY AT DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY TROOP SUPPORT - A COMPONENT OF THE 26,000- EMPLOYEE, FORT BELVOIR, VA-BASED DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY (DLA) - HE NOT ONLY BRINGS EXPERTISE, EXPERIENCE AND COMPETENCE, HE IS ALSO ACCOMPANIED BY HIS DEDICATED SERVICE DOG, OPRAH.

 

Diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and painful spinal fusion resulting from injuries caused by multiple missions as a cavalry scout during his deployment to Iraq, it is Oprah who now has his back 24/7.

 

Severely injured in 2009 during a night patrol while evading small arms fire, Pagan - who served in both the U.S. Marine Corps and the Pennsylvania Army National Guard - took part in the DLA Pathway to Career Excellence (PaCE), a two-year, entry-level training program that includes on-the-job assignments, cross-training, rotational assignments and formal training.

 

Employed at DLA Troop Support since 2007, he acknowledges that his initial return to work was difficult. “For the first few months it was hard to adjust to an office pace compared to being in the field. I also worried about my still deployed unit,” explains Pagan, who underwent four years of intensive physical and mental rehabilitation.

 

Recognizing that a better way to regain his health was needed, Pagan took it upon himself to research Puppies Behind Bars, a non-profit organization that trains service dogs for returning military members suffering from PTSD.

 

“That’s where I found Oprah - named for her sponsor, Oprah Winfrey - and that’s where and when I found a pathway to recovery,” he says. “Not only is Oprah trained to be a companion, she knows how to cheer me up when I am down, fetches things when I am in pain, can dial 911 on a special phone - and is welcomed at work.”

 

A native of Puerto Rico, Pagan holds a Bachelor of Arts in multidisciplinary studies from Kansas City, MO-based Grantham University and is a recent graduate of DLA’s PaCE program. He now serves as a member of the team responsible for providing food and food service equipment to the military and other Department of Defense customers.

 

“We supply everything from individual meals to full-service dining facilities,” says Pagan, who mentions PaCE led him to DLA Troop Support.

 

“This program enabled me to transfer my military skills and obtain additional training. It also provided a means for me to be around other military members and veterans,” says Pagan, who enjoys serving in a role that helps the military and allows him to interact with former servicemen and -women.

 

Responsible for customers in Georgia and Puerto Rico, Pagan is charged with identifying and meeting the needs of customers, coordinating orders, developing improved service delivery and, when needed, resolving problems. He sees the Subsistence supply chain as a constantly evolving and growing career.

 

“In the future I foresee an increase in worldwide mobility and a greater integration with the military in a joint center capacity,” he says.

 

For those with disabilities, Pagan is emphatic in his belief that “there is no disability other than the one you place on yourself,” and he cites the DLA as a perfect employer for anyone with a disability.

 

“The agency focuses on what you can do regardless of who you are,” states Pagan who is grateful for his team and everyone who helped him along the way. He praises the amazing understanding of leadership that believes in those with limitations.

 

“Nothing but great opportunities have come my way because of them,” says the member of the American Legion, Marine Corps League and Toastmasters. Pagan also praises his service dog agency, Puppies Behind Bars, via which he was paired with Oprah, his service dog.

 

For more information about job opportunities with Defense Logistics Troop Support, log onto dla.mil.

 

BULLOCK HELPS BUILD FUTURES AT NAVY FEDERAL

 

AS A FORMER SENIOR NON-COMMISSIONED OFFICER (SNCO) IN THE U.S. ARMY WITH A MULTITUDE OF EXPERIENCE IN LEADERSHIP, MANAGEMENT TECHNIQUES AND TECHNICAL TRAINING, DONNIE BULLOCK CREDITS THE MILITARY WITH SMOOTHING HIS TRANSITION INTO THE CIVILIAN WORKFORCE.

 

Now as project manager II at 14,000-employee, Vienna, VA-headquartered Navy Federal Credit Union, his work ethic remains the same. “The basic responsibilities of my current job continue to focus on maintaining the welfare of my fellow workers and accomplishing my mission,” he says.

 

During the three years Bullock has been with Navy Federal, he’s never wavered from the basic principles instilled in him during his military service.

 

“As project manager I rely on my previous experience leading complex efforts to improve processes and procedures on a large scale,” says Bullock, who sees a direct correlation between the skills, tools and techniques he acquired in the military and those he employs in his current position.

 

Reflecting on his status as a combat-wounded veteran, Bullock mentions being injured during the Gulf War and later in his military service.

 

“I underwent total knee reconstruction on my left leg and continue to require annual medial review,” he explains. Realizing the use of his knee will never be 100 percent, he adds, “I don’t let that stop me, nor do I mention it unless specifically asked. I’m as able as anyone else; it just sometimes takes me a little longer to get some things done.”

 

As for impacting his entry into the civilian workforce, Bullock did not find being a combat-wounded veteran to be detrimental. “In fact, my injury has given me an inner drive to perform,” he asserts, adding since retiring from the Army, he chose civilian jobs that were somewhat related to the service.

 

“I initially worked for a company that had a blood management contract with the military. Next, I was a project manager for the American Red Cross, and now, the Navy Federal Credit Union, where I plan to work until my final retirement. Being able to continue to serve helped smooth my transition from the military,” he points out.

 

While in the Army, Bullock believes he was fortunate to work on a number of projects that ultimately led to other projects. Recognizing that as a valuable skill set, he continues to rely on that experience. His current duties involve building and maintaining relationships with all levels of internal and external contacts, ensuring effective project management from inception through implementation, serving as a primary point of contact for project management and other related issues, as well as involvement in a host of other capacities.

 

“Project management continues to be a field designed for current and future applications. It’s a career with longevity, as well,” notes Bullock, who is constantly called upon to adapt to change.

 

Citing flexibility, adaptability, organization, critical thinking, effective communication and the ability to multitask as essential attributes for success on the job, Bullock says, “I use my management knowledge and skills to help the Navy Federal Credit Union offer the best mortgage products in the industry. In that way I assist military men and women with their futures.”

 

Noting the skills he identifies as necessary in his current work closely relate to those needed in the military, he urges other combat-wounded veterans to prepare early for entering the civilian job market. “Utilize the same skills and work ethic you evidenced in the service, and you will be successful,” he contends.

 

Bullock finds tremendous dedication, on the part of all Navy Federal employees, to providing exceptional service to members.

 

“There is a pleasant feeling about accomplishing that and knowing I’m making a difference,” says Bullock, an avid Scouting Leader in the National Capital Area Council and an active member of at the credit union’s “Navygators” Toastmasters Club.

 

For additional details about job opportunities with Navy Federal, visit navyfederal.org.

 

CINTAS’ KRUEGER TAKES THE LEAD & MENTORS OTHERS

 

FOR JOSHUA KRUEGER, IT WAS HIS LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE IN THE U.S. MARINE CORPS THAT PREPARED HIM WELL FOR THE CIVILIAN WORKFORCE. TODAY, AS OPERATIONS MANAGER AT CINTAS FIRE PROTECTION IN MENOMONEE FALLS, WI, HE’S BEEN WITH THE CINCINNATI, OH-HEADQUARTERED FIRM FOR THE PAST EIGHT YEARS.

 

“My service background in the Marine Infantry provided an opportunity to learn about employers that specifically seek to hire veterans with disabilities,” says Krueger, who lost his left eye and received massive trauma to his left hand while serving his country. He also has a minor traumatic brain injury, he says. He was helped by his service dog, Herbie, who passed away this past spring.

 

Cintas was the first job he took after retiring from the military. “Having mentors already in place was a huge benefit that made a considerable difference,” he says.

 

Having a desire to work for a large company that could offer advancement, as well as stability, Krueger found Cintas to be the right fit. The company helps more than 900,000 businesses of all types and sizes get “READY™” to open their doors each day by providing a wide range of products and services.

 

Currently responsible for day-to-day operations in the field and in the office, Krueger additionally has profit and loss responsibilities. “I believe the life safety sector will continue to grow in the coming years. Opportunities might shift and change, but the call for technical people will always be there,” he states.

 

According to Krueger, good customer service, self-discipline, leadership, initiative and a good overall work ethic are what is needed when transitioning from the military to civilian work life. When interviewing, he advises dressing for the job you want, not the one for which you are interviewing. “Be prepared at all times and maintain a get-it-done attitude,” suggests Krueger.

 

Involved with wounded warrior non-profit groups, Krueger cautions those he counsels that in all likelihood they’ll never transition into civilian life and work 100 percent. “It’s just the way we are built,” he states, emphasizing instead, “Work with what you have to be a success and never forget where you came from.”

 

For more about Cintas jobs, visit cintas.com. CAD

 

From an Employer's Pov 

 

Whether you are planning to separate from the military soon or are a veteran seeking to re-establish yourself in a civilian career, it helps to know why and how a company would value your military experiences.

 

Here, Christopher Carlson, director of talent acquisition and diversity for the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) - a corporate agency that provides electricity for business customers and local power distributors and that serves nine million people in parts of seven southeastern states - expounds on the benefits veterans bring to the workplace.

 

What skill sets do veterans offer that you find valuable?

 

“Obviously, their exposure to nuclear subs is critical to running our nuclear power plants. They’re also familiar with the security of the armed services, which is much appreciated by the different levels of security here at TVA, and that’s not necessarily found in the public at the same level of training and experience. In the corporate space they apply to everything from human resources to supply chain, especially supply chain. If you look at moving a platoon, then the whole process is a supply chain. The military provides a great training ground, from learning how to coordinate on the supply chain to transportation to more advanced military operations that involve engineering and technology. These are key competencies TVA seeks, along with commitment, dedication and sense of service.”

 

Do you offer any assistance to help individuals who are transitioning out of active duty or who have disabilities?

 

“Employee assistance programs provide a one-stop resource for anything they might need. If they have a disability stemming from their military service, then there’s a case manager who confidentially works with them for any accommodations they may require. There are medical personnel at different locations, as well.”

 

How can veteran candidates help themselves in the job search?

 

“Definitely stay connected on social media channels such as LinkedIn. Start exploring relationships in the organizations [where] you want to work through these channels and build personal ties. It’s about leveraging those networks. [Plus], network with other veterans.” —By Anne Baye Ericksen

 

Program Helps Injured Service Members Find Meaningful Employment

 

First impressions can make or break a job hunt. Within minutes of sitting down with a potential employer, someone has to convey his or her confidence, competence and cohesiveness with the organization. Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) knows meaningful employment can help injured veterans in their transition to civilian life.

 

WWP’s Warriors to Work program aids wounded service members in every step of the search. Warriors to Work begins with building a resume that catches a recruiter’s eye and translating military experience into civilian expertise.

 

In many cases networking plays an integral role in obtaining the interview. A WWP specialist helps connect the wounded veteran with the right company, leveraging connections to increase the chances of getting that all-important interview.

 

Warriors to Work also hosts events like mock interviews with real companies. Recently, more than a dozen wounded veterans and their family support members attended an interview workshop in Honolulu, HI. The gathering gave every attendee a chance to practice interviewing with representatives from Aerotek and TEKSystems - two staffing agencies with offices in Hawaii.

 

“The workshop facilitator shared valuable tools and tips during the interview process,” WWP alumnus and U.S. Army veteran Franky Hernandez says. “It’s not often you get the chance to receive feedback to improve your interviewing skill.”

 

Hernandez and other participants, including WWP alumnus and Marine Corps veteran Erik Morinaga, took full advantage of the real-life opportunity.

 

“Proper preparation is often the best way to ensure success, but it can be hard to get repetitions for certain skills,” Morinaga says. “Nothing I did before was as useful as the mock interviews with these professionals. They show a passion for their craft and helped improve my interview abilities.”

 

WWP alumnus and Marine Corps veteran Jesus Mendoza gleaned a key lesson. “They taught me to show my softer side and quit being so robotic. Employers want to know how I would fit with their team,” says Mendoza.

 

“At a real interview you have one shot - hit or miss - that determines if you get your dream job,” Hernandez notes. “I couldn’t have paid for a better service to prepare me for interviews.”

 

Warriors to Work placed more than 2,500 wounded veterans and their family members in meaningful employment in fiscal year 2015. That means more than an $85 million dollar financial impact for wounded veterans and their families.

 

For more information log onto woundedwarriorproject.org/programs/warriors-to-work.