We’re proud to profile Danny Peters, a former US Navy Officer who is now a Field Engineer with Hensel Phelps. Danny worked with Orion in August 2018 to help find his post-military career.
“Transitioning was a roller coaster. I used LinkedIn to reach out to my network, went to a career fair and an Orion Distinguished Candidate Conference, and sent in my resume to more companies than I ever dreamed I would have to reach out to,” Danny recalled. “During the months leading up to my departure date the hard work I had put in finally paid off. I ended up having multiple offers, which gave me the advantage of being able to negotiate and truly think about what would be the best fit for me and my career, as well as my family,” he said.
Orion helped Danny find a great opportunity as a Field Engineer with Hensel Phelps, and he has found his career to be very rewarding. “Hensel Phelps places a great emphasis on its people. They have career paths built into their structure, so as long as you put in the effort and apply yourself, you will promote,” Danny stated. “Hensel Phelps likes to take the military folks they hire and put them on a fast track to move up earlier, so they can tap into our leadership experience once we learn the ins and outs of the construction industry.”
According to Danny, the leadership experience he acquired in the military prepared him for his new career. “A civilian employee may have a better technical understanding of the industry, but they do not know how to delegate to a team and motivate others to solve the problem,” Danny explained.
In addition to leadership skills, the military also prepared him to be able to adapt and be a self-starter. “Starting a new career in a new industry was similar to arriving at a new command in a new billet. Each of my Navy tours was vastly different than the last, as most military career paths are set up, but each time I was able to quickly learn the mission, where I fit in, and how I could add value,” Danny said. “Joining the civilian world was no different. We (Veterans) have all been trained in how to overcome obstacles.”
Danny advised fellow veterans to not be discouraged, network, and prepare yourself for the transition ahead. “The civilian world works very differently than the military world. Do your homework and talk to as many people as you can to learn any tips on separating from the military,” he advised. “The more information you have from people who successfully transitioned out is worth its weight in gold. The process is hard and daunting at times, but it is worth it.”
If you are transitioning soon and looking for a civilian career, join Elison and the thousands of others like him who have found rewarding careers through Orion Talent. Begin your career search with Orion and register today.
