How Identity Influenced a Project Manager at United Launch Alliance
Joshua's military experience provided valuable leadership skills directly transferable to private industry, with traits like being "very candid, uh, very direct" proving highly beneficial in a project management role at United Launch Alliance. The transition, however, presented challenges including "imposter syndrome" and a significant culture shock, highlighting the importance of self-awareness and seeking mental health support during this adjustment period.
Leadership, Project Management, Military Transition, Overcoming Challenges, Communication Skills
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Joshua Adams
Project Manager
United Launch Alliance
Cal Poly San Luis Obispo
MBA - University of North Alabama
Industrial, Supply Chain Management
Aerospace, Aviation & Defense, Manufacturing, Operations & Supply Chain
Operations and Project Management
Worked 20+ Hours in School, Veteran
Video Highlights
1. Being a veteran provides a positive connotation and benefits when transitioning to the civilian sector.
2. The military cultivates valuable leadership skills such as directness and decisiveness, highly transferable to private industry.
3. The first year of transition is challenging, highlighting the importance of mental health and maintaining connections with fellow veterans.
Transcript
As a veteran, how has that impacted the way you've navigated your career?
Being a veteran is a really good thing. The connotation that comes with the title, as well as the benefits you receive after leaving the military, are pretty astounding.
However, it's pretty challenging mentally transitioning from the military to the civilian sector, whether that's into college or into private industry. It's a major culture shock, and you often feel imposter syndrome.
The best takeaway I got is to always be yourself. You might come off as harder after the military, deliberate, or even aggressive. But if an organization hires you from the military, they're often looking for that directness.
A lot of the skill sets we gained from the military culture translate very well to leadership in private industry. Many of the simple lessons learned along the way are valuable for leading a group or a team.
I'm often told that I'm very candid and direct, and I don't even notice it. It's a trait from the military that I don't think about anymore. I also have no fear of standing in front of any group of people; you've been through your share of experiences, and many fears are gone after the military.
I'll say the first year is the hardest. Seek mental health when you need it and check on your buddies. That's the key.