Safety Manager

Southeast
US Marine Corps, E-8

My plans of retiring in 2014 were abruptly changed in January 2013 when I was notified that my unit was being disbanded. I had seven months left to retirement, and I had done nothing to prepare for it. A colleague had mentioned Orion, and I decided to check out the website. I signed up and read through the material available. I submitted my resume and reserved a seat for a hiring conference in April.

This was an excellent experience, as it allowed me to practice interview skills and get pointers on everything from resumes to wardrobe choices. I did four interviews during the conference and then two follow-up interviews for one company. As I was not available to start working immediately, this opportunity did not work out. However, knowing I was the company’s top choice increased my confidence and validated my skills and experience.

As my terminal leave date drew nearer, I had to put my job search on the back burner. I was extremely busy with work turn-over, the transition seminar, and retirement physical. But Orion kept working for me; and, two weeks later, I received a call from Todd Phillips, who said he had a couple of job openings I might be interested in. Two days later, I did a phone interview with PCC Special Metals and the following week, I traveled to West Virginia with four other candidates for more interviews and a tour of the plant.

Orion staff was also there, which made me feel that they were really looking out for us and working to make sure we had everything we needed to be successful. The interviews lasted three hours and were exhausting. As a First Sergeant with over 20 years in the Marine Corps, I was confident of my leadership skills and experience. I also have a Bachelor degree and I am finishing my Master’s degree this year.

The job openings were in production and maintenance, but, during the interviews, I noticed that they were picking up on my background in occupational safety. I had safety as a collateral billet for the last nine years in the Marine Corps, and it is a job I thoroughly enjoy. Over the next several days, I did follow-up phone interviews. Throughout the process, Todd debriefed me after each interview and kept me updated on what was going on. At the end of May, I received the job offer from PCC Special Metals, and I am now working as a Safety Manager at their West Virginia plant.

My safety training from the Marine Corps has transferred seamlessly to my new job. Since OSHA requirements are universal, I already have a solid base of knowledge, and I am able to focus on learning specifics about the metal industry. I am also an experienced curriculum developer and instructor. This is invaluable as I began running employee training sessions on my third day.

My transition from active duty Marine to retirement was completely stress-free. Thanks to Orion and especially Todd, I had a great job waiting for me as soon as I started my terminal leave.