5 years in the past, I discovered myself crusing throughout the Arctic Circle to take part within the North Atlantic Treaty Group’s largest train for the reason that Chilly Conflict. Strolling down the maze-like passageway, I handed miles of cable supporting the community onboard the big deck amphibious warship, the place information would move by means of {hardware} with a well-known “bridge” image. Standing watch within the Fight Data Heart, we utilized telephones with the acquainted “bridge” image as effectively. Every part was in sync because it wanted to be, which was solely doable as a result of we have been afforded one of the best {hardware} within the {industry}.
Nevertheless, after 15 mixed years in a uniform and plenty of nautical miles traveled, I made a decision to start my transition out of energetic obligation into the Naval Reserves. Throughout transition coaching, there was palpable nervousness about whether or not to proceed serving within the reserves and the way a lot info to disclose about this choice on future job functions. Simply as with medical situations, you aren’t required to reveal your navy service dedication, however I knew that I didn’t wish to be a part of a company that didn’t assist navy service within the reserves or Nationwide Guard and needed to be upfront that there could be instances that I might need to step away for coaching to satisfy my commitments. Finally, I knew that the fitting group would settle for me and my choice to proceed to serve within the reserves and that transparency was the most suitable choice.
Considered one of my buddies was doing a Division of Protection SkillBridge program and advised me to take a look at the alternatives at Cisco. I utilized for a couple of roles, after which issues fell into place after I utilized and interviewed for a gross sales position inside U.S. Industrial Providers Gross sales. Whereas I lacked industry-specific expertise, each the recruiter and hiring supervisor had religion in my skill to make a priceless contribution to the workforce. They noticed in my background a tenacious will to achieve success with fewer assets and the flexibility to adapt and overcome unknown challenges. They realized, by means of talking with me in interviews, that I don’t see failure as an choice, and I work to boost effectivity and effectiveness when attaining an answer. Ever since that day they took an opportunity on me two years in the past, I’ve been lucky to be embraced by a supportive group of Cisconians, making my transition from a navy background to the tech {industry} exceptionally easy and seamless, personally and professionally.
This previous March, I had the prospect to take part in and assist Train Freedom Defend for my Navy Reserve annual coaching, an air, sea, and land simulation train with the Republic of Korea. I braced myself as I ready to tell my Cisco management of my impending depart of absence. I used to be really caught off guard after I was met with nothing however assist and encouragement. Their preliminary response was, “How’s your loved ones dealing with the information? Will they be okay?” I used to be shocked by their real concern for my household’s well-being. This sort response from my management alleviated a lot of the nervousness I had about all the scenario.
After arriving on the Korean peninsula, I needed to take advantage of the time out there earlier than the train’s graduation, so I took a prepare to Seoul to take a look at the Cisco workplace within the Gangnam District. Even with a language barrier, I used to be welcomed by the identical supportive tradition that I at all times expertise in RTP. After three seemingly lengthy weeks away from household, the place the acquainted “bridge” emblem was current on the watch flooring using the world’s most interesting telecommunication gear, Cisco VoIP telephones, my time in Korea got here to an in depth following the profitable train. Lastly, I reunited with my household, and it felt good to be residence.
I appreciated the chance to placed on the uniform once more, however I’m much more grateful for an organization that’s thoughtful and assists with my time away. Tons have modified for me previously few years: I as soon as wore steel-toe, non-slip boots, however now put on footwear and flip-flops on the weekend. I hung up my camouflage uniform for a button-down shirt and slacks. I maneuvered warships in formation and now assist the workforce drive gross sales for among the world’s most recognizable and enjoyable manufacturers. I used to eat within the wardroom on board with division heads, discussing naval techniques and operations. Now, I eat lunch within the cafe, collaborating with professionals in Enterprise Improvement, Buyer Expertise, Operations, Finance, and Engineering. It wouldn’t be possible with out the constructive teamwork I’ve been lucky to be surrounded by. I hope hiring managers and recruiters will look to veterans much more when recruiting new expertise due to the extremely numerous abilities we will carry to develop the enterprise and even embody a couple of sea tales alongside the best way. I’m ceaselessly grateful to Cisco for being my “Bridge to Potential” and one of the best place to work!
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