What a Director at US Navy Wishes They Knew Before Entering the Military
Jack, a US Navy Director, wished for prior insight into the "possibilities" and career trajectory variations within the military, noting that some career paths are "top tier," others "so-so," and some ultimately lead to leaving the service. A mentor's guidance on navigating this dynamic career landscape, including forecasting impacts of "bigger geopolitical events," would have been invaluable.
Career Development, Military Career, Leadership, Mentorship, Career Planning
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Jack Welsh
Director (LCDR, SC, USN)
US Navy
St. John’s College, Annapolis
UCLA Anderson School of Management
Political Science, American Studies
Government & Public Sector, Military
Operations and Project Management
Honors Student, Scholarship Recipient, Took Out Loans, Worked 20+ Hours in School, Transfer Student
Video Highlights
1. The variability of career paths in the military differs from civilian careers, with some paths offering faster advancement than others.
2. Mentorship can be crucial in navigating the dynamic career trajectory within the military and understanding the impact of geopolitical events.
3. The military operates on an "up or out" model, making it essential to assess one's suitability for such a career path early on.
Transcript
What have you learned about this role that you wish someone had told you before you entered the industry?
I would have liked to know the possibilities, where I could have gone, and what I could do. It would have been helpful to get more insight from a mentor about how dynamic career paths can change.
Unlike many civilian careers, military careers, especially specialties, have defined paths. You have good career paths, so-so ones, and ones that aren't ideal. In top-tier roles, you advance relatively quickly.
With so-so paths, you might move up laterally or not at all. This can determine your career potential. Those who don't succeed often leave the service, either voluntarily or by request.
The services operate on an "up or out" model. If you're not a good fit, it becomes clear within a year or two. Having a mentor to forecast future career developments based on geopolitical events would have been very beneficial.