Every great manager or director has to start somewhere: Joe McFarland, executive vice president at Lowe's, began as a sales associate in the light bulb aisle of Home Depot. But before that, he spent six years in the Marine Corps as an aviation mechanic. When he left the military in August 1993, he knew that his technical skills were not relevant: "No one was looking for someone to fire a .50-cal out of a door. My technical skills weren't as important as my people skills."
Goodyear’s commitment to safety, quality, and innovation is evident through its recruitment of top talent from the veteran community. The Ohio-based company has a long history of supporting the military, dating back to World War I, when the manufacturer produced goods for trucks and airships. Goodyear continues that tradition today by actively working to fill its workforce with the unique skill sets of service members. The company leverages its internal veterans association to help create a seamless shift to the civilian sector for those transitioning from active duty, like former U.S. Army Sgt. Jonathan Molina, who found a management position with Goodyear.
For David Oppenheim, life is all about balance. He juggles his military service, his civilian employment, and his family. Oppenheim’s oldest son is currently serving on active duty as a Captain in the U.S. Army, and his daughter is currently serving on active duty as a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force.
“My father gave us two things we were never allowed to do,” Brent Crouch says. “The first was ride a motorcycle and the second was join the Army. So I dropped out of college and enlisted in the navy so I could see the world and serve my country.” This very first transition set him up for several smooth career transitions later on.
“My first day of ROTC at the University of New Hampshire was Sept. 11, 2001,” Sean Wilkins said. “I was scared. I had no idea what was going to happen.” Wilkins, who served in the U.S. Army for eight years, learned several valuable lessons about himself in that time, and about his passion for helping others.
