Each of the employees hired through Operation IMPACT brings unique experiences and talents to our company. Below are a few of their stories.

Name: Ismael (Ish)
Branch: United States Army
Rank: Staff Sergeant 
Position: Security Assistant
Sector: Information Systems
Joined Northrop Grumman: December 2008

How did you learn about Operation IMPACT? 
I learned about Operation IMPACT through a Northrop Grumman Operation IMPACT representative.  She assisted one of our many briefings we held during my time at a Warrior Transition Unit in San Diego.

What background/education/ experience from your military service career was helpful in your transition to Northrop Grumman?
Northrop Grumman being such a military-friendly company and so many of our contracts are through the military, it made the transition smooth.  It almost felt natural.  I was able to quickly relate with others and the work ethics I learned in the military quickly helped me fit right in.

What are your best three transition tips for severely injured warriors looking for employment?
Have an open mind, don't limit yourself due to an injury and your military experience counts more than you think.

Any other thoughts or comments you would like to share regarding your transition to a career with Northrop Grumman?
Northrop Grumman is an outstanding company to work for.  Its military friendliness has allowed me to transition back into the civilian world while still being able to keep a “piece” of my former military life through many of our military contracts and contracts with current/former service members and Department of Defense civilians. 

Name: Nevin
Branch: US Marine Corps
Rank: Corporal 
Position: Admin function support
Sector: Technical Services
Joined Northrop Grumman: April 2007

How did you learn about Operation IMPACT? 
I heard about Operation IMPACT from Capt. Lopez at the Marine for Life program.

What background/education/ experience from your military service career was helpful in your transition to Northrop Grumman?
My experience allowed me to take charge of tasks and complete them in a timely manner. With my ability to multitask and get the job done, it has gotten me personal recognition from project managers and the Northrop Grumman Technical Services Vice President.

What are your best three transition tips for severely injured warriors looking for employment?
Don't give up. Transitioning back to civilian life will be difficult, but is possible.  Be patient. Being injured is not the end-- improvise, adapt, and overcome.  It's a new beginning for you so pick your head up and drive on. 

Name: Collins
Branch: US Army
Rank: Sergeant 
Position: Information Security Officer
Sector: Information Systems
Joined Northrop Grumman: March 2010

How did you learn about Operation IMPACT? 
I learned about Operation IMPACT through the Walter Reed Wounded Warrior Program.  I was introduced to it by some wonderful folks who have been there to assist along the way.  I think the program is a great help and gives us military a chance to give back and contribute to our society at a level not normally available to the regular service member transitioning out of the military.

What background/education/ experience from your military service career was helpful in your transition to Northrop Grumman?
The experience and training I gained while serving at home and abroad helped prepare me mentally and technically with the tools needed and has helped me to qualify and transition smoothly into a great job.  After serving for 20 years, you learn to adapt and overcome challenges that would normally seem almost impossible.

What are your best three transition tips for severely injured warriors looking for employment?
Research before you begin your transition, take advantage of the resources available to you and seek your interest.  Be not afraid—there are always going to be challenges, but there are people available to help.

Any other thoughts or comments you would like to share regarding your transition to a career with Northrop Grumman?
Be patient, allow the people with the experience and expertise to guide you as you transition. Sometimes our expectations are not always a reality and nothing happens instantly.  Keep faith and give things a chance to work.  Northrop Grumman is a great place to work and there is a lot you can look forward to.  The transition can seem daunting at times, but there is a system and people in place to assist.  It has been very good and I look forward to even better times.  Working here is like changing families; there is that oneness, family unity, and feeling when you become part of a team, and that makes it an even more rewarding place to be and work.

Name: Joshua
Branch: United States Marine Corps
Rank: Sergeant
Position: Program Management
Sector: Aerospace Systems
Joined Northrop Grumman: February 2009

How did you learn about Operation IMPACT? 
I learned about Operation IMPACT while I was recovering from my injuries at the Balboa Naval Medical Center in San Diego, CA.

What background/education/ experience from your military service career was helpful in your transition to Northrop Grumman?
During my enlistment in the Marine Corps, I was given the opportunity to build my leadership skills and abilities. To add, I was also taking college courses while recovering, knowing that employment outside the Marine Corps was closing in fast.  Northrop Grumman presented me with an opportunity to apply the skills learned in the Marine Corps to their company.

What are your best three transition tips for severely injured warriors looking for employment?
First, prepare for your future outside of the military. Whether that means taking college classes in your off time or going to resume building classes. It needs to be done.  Secondly, attend career fairs and network with companies, such as Northrop Grumman, to get an idea of potential careers outside of the military. And finally, always seek for improvement. That is a trait that many companies desire. There is no need to settle for something that doesn't utilize your abilities.

Any other thoughts or comments you would like to share regarding your transition to a career with Northrop Grumman?
I would like to take a moment to thank the entire Operation IMPACT team for the work that they do to assist us wounded warriors with the transition into the civilian world. Many thanks to the BAMS UAS management team for interviewing me and offering me a wonderful career opportunity.