Green Corps’ Post

With one child off doing adult things (US Marines) and my next oldest preparing to decide on her post-high school plans, I’ve been spending a lot of time reflecting on what I would advise my younger self and, more pressing, what advice I should give my teen as she thinks about the path ahead. In no particular order, here is a series of the things I would tell young folks early in their career(s): Item 1) Until you get your hands dirty, you cannot know what you will and will not like about any particular career. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself to know at 17 or 18 what you’ll do when you grow up. Take an educated guess and get started on whatever steps it takes to move forward. 

Reflecting on my journey from military service to multiple career paths, one truth stands out: the undervalued power of blue-collar work. As someone who's been on both sides of the employment spectrum, I've witnessed firsthand the dedication and impact of these roles. Let’s shift our perspective and recognize the integral role they play in our daily lives. A collective approach to valuing every profession can redefine success for many. #CareerReflections #BlueCollarSkills

Super inspired by Rays journey. The clean energy economy will save the planet, but also lead to reductions in historical inequities. Folks like Ray have the courage. We have to support them. Not just bc we are nice people, but bc they will help to save the planet for our kids. It is in our self interest. #climate #climatecrisis

Sharing an insightful and important article on the challenges facing joint marriages (especially military-civilian) within the DoD. #militaryspouses #militaryfamilies #recruitment #retention #womeninaviation #veterans #humanfactors

A great step forward in advocacy for military spouses seeking to remain competitive in their own professional careers, with servicemembers who seek to remain in public service. Not only is there an opportunity for policy reform in the public sector, but flexibility in the private sector and the rise of telework policies can also create flexible accommodations for military families—if companies are capable of recognizing the potential in attracting and retaining high-end talent.

This is a good read. This is why I teach, and why I encourage all others to teach what they learn. First: They talk through and demonstrate what they think they have learned and by doing so they learn even more in a collaborative manner with the person they are teaching. Second doing so instills the importance of sharing what we have learned and ensuring that everyone on their team has at least the same base knowledge of how things operate/ happen. What does this equal? It equals teamwork, safety, trust in each other, better communication, collaboration skills, growth mindset, self improvement etc… To be a good leader you need to follow. There are several good books on Leadership Through Followership for building leaders. Put encouraging phrases around your workplace. Believe them and practice them. Grow together as a team. Put the phones down, turn the TV’s off and re-engage in conversation and building friends for a lifetime.

In a recent article, Warrior-Scholar Project CEO, Ryan Pavel, discusses his core belief that enlisted veterans have unlimited capacity for impact and helping them leverage their unique opportunities and experience through higher education is squarely in our national interest. Click the link below to learn how WSP does our part to help enlisted service members and veterans succeed in college and beyond. https://bit.ly/4bEFA7M

In my first year with Parsons I have learned a lot with the military to civilian transition. Top four thoughts. First keep in touch with those who were close during service. It has eased my thoughts of “abandoning” my post when I chose to retire. I find I can still offer insight and assistance to those still serving. More importantly I can ensure those who choose to leave service after me have more information and resources in hand then I did. Second don’t be afraid to start mid level in your next job. You will find that your expertise and experience will shine and be noticed quickly. Trust in the process and timing to move up in salary and position. Third. If your an old soul SNCO at retirement don’t at all think the civilian world dynamics and issues aren’t the same as in the service. Forth and final. Bottom line. Find peace and happiness in your new career. Don’t just chase money. Make the time for family, friends and relaxing you deserve it.

Watch Obama´s career advice to young people, which I believe is equally relevant to all of us! 💫 1. Learn how to get stuff done 2. Focus on what you want to do rather than what you want to be

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