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 because the Chilly Battle. Strolling down the maze-like passageway, I handed miles of cable supporting the community onboard the big deck amphibious warship, the place information would cross by way of {hardware} with a well-known “bridge” image. Standing watch within the Fight Data Middle, we utilized telephones with the acquainted “bridge” image as effectively. Every little thing was in sync because it wanted to be, which was solely attainable as a result of we had 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 responsibility into the Naval Reserves. Throughout transition coaching, there was palpable anxiousness about whether or not to proceed serving within the reserves and the way a lot data to disclose about this resolution 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 corporation that didn’t help navy service within the reserves or Nationwide Guard and wished to be upfront that there can be occasions that I might need to step away for coaching to satisfy my commitments. Finally, I knew that the appropriate group would settle for me and my resolution to proceed to serve within the reserves and that transparency was the most suitable choice.
One in all my mates was doing a Division of Protection SkillBridge program and instructed me to take a look at the alternatives at Cisco. I utilized for just a few 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 useful contribution to the staff. They noticed in my background a tenacious will to achieve success with fewer assets and the flexibility to adapt and overcome unknown challenges. They discovered, by way of talking with me in interviews, that I don’t see failure as an possibility, and I work to reinforce effectivity and effectiveness when reaching 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 help 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 help 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 type response from my management alleviated a lot of the anxiousness I had about your complete state of affairs.
After arriving on the Korean peninsula, I wished to take advantage of 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 all the time 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 a detailed following the profitable train. Lastly, I reunited with my household, and it felt good to be house.
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. Heaps 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 staff drive gross sales for a few of the world’s most recognizable and enjoyable manufacturers. I used to eat within the wardroom on board with division heads, discussing naval ways 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 expertise we are able to carry to develop the enterprise and even embody just a few sea tales alongside the way in which. I’m endlessly grateful to Cisco for being my “Bridge to Attainable” and one of the best place to work!
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