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 massive deck amphibious warship, the place knowledge would cross by means of {hardware} with a well-known “bridge” image. Standing watch within the Fight Info Heart, we utilized telephones with the acquainted “bridge” image as properly. All the things was in sync because it wanted to be, which was solely doable as a result of we had been afforded the perfect {hardware} within the {industry}.
Nevertheless, after 15 mixed years in a uniform and lots of nautical miles traveled, I made a decision to start my transition out of lively 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 data to disclose about this choice on future job functions. Simply as with medical circumstances, you aren’t required to reveal your army service dedication, however I knew that I didn’t wish to be a part of a corporation that didn’t help army service within the reserves or Nationwide Guard and wished 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 suitable group would settle for me and my choice to proceed to serve within the reserves and that transparency was the best choice.
One in every 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 just a few roles, after which issues fell into place once I utilized and interviewed for a gross sales position inside U.S. Business Companies Gross sales. Whereas I lacked industry-specific expertise, each the recruiter and hiring supervisor had religion in my means to make a precious contribution to the crew. They noticed in my background a tenacious will to achieve success with fewer sources and the power to adapt and overcome unknown challenges. They realized, by means of talking with me in interviews, that I don’t see failure as an possibility, and I work to reinforce 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 army background to the tech {industry} exceptionally easy and seamless, personally and professionally.
This previous March, I had the prospect to take part in and help Train Freedom Protect 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 go away of absence. I used to be really caught off guard once I was met with nothing however help and encouragement. Their preliminary response was, “How’s your loved ones dealing with the information? Will they be okay?” I used to be bowled over by their real concern for my household’s well-being. This type response from my management alleviated a lot of the nervousness I had about the whole state of affairs.
After arriving on the Korean peninsula, I wished to profit from the time accessible earlier than the train’s graduation, so I took a practice 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 ground using the world’s best telecommunication gear, Cisco VoIP telephones, my time in Korea got here to a detailed 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 a corporation that’s thoughtful and assists with my time away. Tons have modified for me up to now few years: I as soon as wore steel-toe, non-slip boots, however now put on sneakers 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 crew 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 optimistic 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 various abilities we will convey to broaden the enterprise and even embody just a few sea tales alongside the best way. I’m eternally grateful to Cisco for being my “Bridge to Potential” and the perfect place to work!
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