Project Manager

Northeast
US Army, O-3

I left the military shortly after returning from Iraq in June 2009. I began my career search in March 2009. I held the rank of Captain in the Infantry.  During my time in the military, I was a Platoon Leader, Company Executive Officer, Battalion Adjutant, Brigade Battle Captain, and lastly a Recon Platoon Leader.

The military absolutely prepared me by developing my versatile abilities and adaptable leadership style.  I am more focused and confident than I have ever been; while still able to maintain my humility and recognize the importance of positive, professional relationships and the significant contributions that others have to make no matter how small the task.

My Orion recruiter was Chris Hurst. He never required me to really “write-off” my dreams and aspirations in finding the career I felt suited me best.  He kept my plans and contingencies on a realistic level, but also continually sought my “best fit” throughout this adventure.

I attended a few localized interviews (mostly as preparation and expectation management), but I ultimately secured my current occupation after attending the hiring conference in Baltimore. I am currently a Project Manager (in training – but performing on level) in a Nuclear Engineering & Consulting Firm. 

I believe the most important aspect of the search process, for me, was the company specific information sheets Orion provided.  They gave me a mix of “insider” information (salary ranges to expect, duty descriptions, responsibilities, benefits, etc.), which allowed me to focus my time on studying the company as a culture and business model, instead of conducting in-depth, time-consuming financial and benefits research.

Every day in my new career presents certain parallels between my military and civilian career. For one, I am still sought for handling crisis management events.  Whereas in the military they were significant enemy actions or similar, in the civilian sector they are deadlines, unanticipated factors, market changes, or even client last minute requirements.

After working with another recruiting agency, I nearly wrote-off utilizing the services of a job placement agency.  My other recruiters (I had multiple) kept telling me I was probably not qualified for any position in the nuclear market, and I should be looking at other opportunities (like sales and defense contracting), both of which did not interest me.  Orion was the only group who kept my interests at heart, and, no matter their own opinions or doubts, still tried to get me in to the interview.