Ken is a logistics engineer at Northrop Grumman. Prior to joining the organization, he was in the U.S. Navy.
Ken joined the U.S. Navy in 1987 and entered the U.S. Naval Nuclear Power Program. From 1989 to 1993, he served as a nuclear-trained machinist on the USS San Francisco, a fast attack submarine aligned with the submarine force, U.S. Pacific Fleet. He deployed to the Western and Eastern Pacific Oceans, and after a six-year enlistment, attended and graduated from the University of Hawaii and commissioned in the Army National Guard as an ordnance/logistics officer. During his 16 years with the Army National Guard, Ken held a variety of positions, such as automotive platoon leader, material management officer, forward support company commander, battalion logistics officer and force integration officer.
During that same time, he deployed twice (2005 and 2009) to the Middle East in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. In December 2014, Ken transitioned from military duty and joined Northrop Grumman.
How long have you been with Northrop Grumman? How did you hear about us?
I heard about Northrop Grumman through several job fairs and exhibitions, and was hired at the end of 2014. Coming on as logistics support, I had no previous training on the role, however my team supported my growth and helped me learn on the job. By the end of 2016, I moved on to a logistics planner, and in May 2020, I moved to my current role as a Logistics Engineer with the J-STARS program.
What is your military background? How did you military background set you up for the role you are in now?
I commissioned in 1998 and spent 16 years with the Army National Guard as a logistics officer. Following my ordnance officer course, I held positions in the maintenance and material management of army equipment. Prior to that, I served as a nuclear-trained machinist on a fast attack submarine. While obtaining my submarine qualification, I trained to be technically and tactically proficient in the operation and maintenance of the submarine. I can utilize my depth of experience from my unconventional military career as I bring a level of experience and dedication that translates to my present role as a logistics engineer.
What was your experience transitioning into Northrop Grumman as a veteran?
Northrop Grumman’s workforce has a higher percentage of veterans in its workforce than other companies, so it shows the organization does know the value of having a veteran on the team. With that comradery, there are other veterans to lean on when you are transitioning to the civilian workforce – they empathize with you. This veteran-rich environment allowed me to feel comfortable and thrive in my current position.
What do you hope to gain from your new role?
In my current role, I seek new experiences, connections, and look to affect change within my program to support the end users so they can do their jobs in a safe and successful manner. I also hope to one day further my career here to be in a position to help other veterans transition into a civilian career at Northrop Grumman.
What advice would you give to other veterans interested in a career in Northrop Grumman?
Never quit trying! Learn about the company as much as you can then go out and network. Talk to people and find out the different roles within the company. Get your name out there and introduce yourself. You never know, but you could potentially be talking to your next hiring manager. I also recommend setting goals, staying focused and positive, and never limiting yourself.
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