Data centers are the backbone of global communications and our digital economy – supporting everything from cloud-based applications, artificial intelligence workloads, e-commerce, gaming, and more. They have become even more essential with the rapid shift towards more highly scalable, high-performance computing and storage systems.
As technology evolves and the amount of data generated expands, infrastructure companies must invest in developing their talent pool to meet the growing demand for data center experts. That’s why EdgeConneX has partnered with organizations such as Salute Mission Critical to address the talent shortage and staff our global data centers with skilled veterans. These exceptional women and men bring their critical expertise, including precision, discipline, dedication, and a high-quality mindset, to deliver world-class infrastructure solutions and support for our clients globally. With our veterans’ expertise and support, EdgeConneX can scale solutions for our customers in real-time, wherever and whenever they need them.
As part of our For Veterans By Veterans series, we’d like to share some of the EdgeConneX veterans’ top tips and key insights aimed at helping others make the switch from the military into the workplace. We think the data center industry is THE place to be. Read more about how to get there!
Mason Conner
– Regional Manager of Data Center Operations and Air Force Veteran
WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO TELL OTHERS THINKING ABOUT A CAREER IN THE DATA CENTER INDUSTRY?
I would tell anyone else who is interested in the data center industry to jump in. There is so much value and need in this industry. Be prepared to be met with new challenges every day, but also great people that will help you along the way. The data center industry is the best thing that has ever happened to me, and I would recommend it to anyone else.
Jeremy Dillard – Critical Systems Engineer, Data Center Operations and Army Veteran
TOP TIPS FOR VETERANS MAKING THE TRANSITION FROM THEIR MILITARY CAREER:
I have made advancements in my career and so can you. There are many opportunities and programs available that will help you reach your goals. EdgeConneX, in partnering with Salute, has helped many veterans develop careers in the data center industry. I didn’t know much about career opportunities in the data center industry because it wasn’t typically a topic of discussion.
However, we need to get the word out more. Salute Mission Critical has many opportunities to work as a technician and learn valuable skills for this fast-growing industry. There are also many VA and educational benefits – pursue them! And always be willing to learn!
Kellie Dinkelman
– Director Solutions Architecture Sales Enablement, NA and Army Veteran
EXPLAIN THE TRANSITION FROM THE MILITARY TO WORKING AT EDGECONNEX:
I went from high school to being in a very male-dominated career. It helped thicken my skin, giving me much more strength and a lot of tolerance. I have been in a sales engineering role for over 15 years but was only 26 when I started in IT, and things just kept going from there. Therefore, transitioning from the military to working at EdgeConneX took time, but all my past experiences helped guide me on the path to where I am today. What could have made it easier for me was to have the resources that are available now – when trying to translate military skills to what I could do in civilian life.
Marco Escobar – Service Delivery Operations Manager, Data Center Operations, Chile and United States Marine Corps. Veteran
WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO TELL OTHERS THINKING ABOUT A CAREER IN THE DATA CENTER INDUSTRY?
I would encourage others to choose electrical, telecom, and/or electronics as their Military Operational Specialty (MOS) – as all of those are highly transferable skills into the data center industry. I would also tell everyone to be prepared for a great adventure! The data center world is always changing.
Dave Foss – SVP of Data Operations and United States Marine Corps. Veteran
WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO TELL OTHERS THAT ARE THINKING ABOUT A CAREER IN THE DATA CENTER INDUSTRY?
The military has so many broad job classifications, including those in technology. Some of the things that will help someone who is thinking about a career in the data center industry is you should always be learning new skills – a characteristic of being driven that is looked at favorably.
Also find companies that promote education. EdgeConneX for example, provides additional training for its employees and always encourages them to take courses and learn new things.
When it comes to the actual skillset, it is a bonus if the veteran has some experience in power systems, security, etc. but doesn’t have to as you can also start off in a smaller role that can teach you this as you grow. One should keep in mind that every role can lead to more advancement, so don’t give up.
Brian Green – EVP, Operations, Engineering and Project Management and Navy Veteran
TOP TIPS FOR VETERANS MAKING THE TRANSITION FROM THEIR MILITARY CAREER:
Be able to ask for help. We have all been helped within our careers. Showing your genuine interest and asking for help goes a long way.
Don’t underestimate your abilities from what you have done in the past, i.e.: Get hard work done in difficult circumstances in different Global regions in a strong, team dependent, work culture.
Pay close attention to what you enjoy doing while in your time in the service. There are all kinds of applications for your skills across many industries, including the data center industry.
Martin Gydam – Director Data Center Physical Security EMEA and Army Veteran
WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO TELL OTHERS THINKING ABOUT A CAREER IN THE DATA CENTER INDUSTRY?
One point I always like to make is it is important to network and find support with someone who has been through the process already of the military to civilian life (in particular, the data center industry). There are many opportunities in the data center industry. The key is to recognize those skills that are transferable. A good mentor can also guide you and show you the ropes of how to apply your skills. In addition to finding and learning from a mentor, there are three characteristics I would recommend:
- Be Flexible
- Be Adaptable
- Be Communicative
It’s important to focus on communicating well – not just the way you say things but also the way you write and how you approach a person or project is something to be mindful. If I could go back and do anything slightly different, I would potentially have taken a communications course after leaving the Army so that I could better understand how to communicate in the business world.
Steven Hill – Senior Director, Solutions Architecture and Army Veteran
HOW DID THE MILITARY PREPARE YOU FOR THE JOB/ROLE/CAREER YOU ARE IN NOW?
The military taught me maturity and loyalty. The military teaches you to find a way and get it done. It’s a mindset.
HOW WAS YOUR EXPERIENCE TRANSITIONING FROM THE MILITARY TO THE CIVILIAN WORKPLACE?
Transitioning to a corporate role was fairly easy. I had already worked in an office building while in the military, which helped me later in roles as a manager. In what other line of business can a 19-year-old have responsibility for multi-million dollar equipment? The military. In the data center world, you are also responsible for millions of dollars in equipment. You learn the chain of command and have a high sense of responsibility coming out of the military.
Steve Lorenzo – Director of Solutions Architecture and Air Force Veteran
WAS THERE ANYTHING THAT WOULD HAVE MADE THE TRANSITION TO THE CIVILIAN WORKPLACE BETTER, EASIER?
One thing that I would recommend to others who are getting ready to go from the military to a civilian role is you should not forget that you have a network of friends you know from being in the military who perhaps have already transitioned into civilian life and can help guide you and support you.
Don MacNeil – Chief Revenue Officer and Navy Veteran
TOP TIPS FOR VETERANS MAKING THE TRANSITION FROM THEIR MILITARY CAREER:
Make sure you are doing the homework for the role or company. Being prepared gives you better insight.
Leverage your networks and peers and remember you are not imposing. We all have been helped and we all want to help. Take advantage of the network and ask for guidance.
Don’t get caught up in the rank or a job title. If you find an industry you want to break into, have confidence in yourself and work your way up.
Edison Obregon
– Manager of Property Management and United States Marine Corps. Veteran
TOP TIPS FOR VETERANS MAKING THE TRANSITION FROM THEIR MILITARY CAREER:
First, think through what is going to make you stand out. Ask yourself, what more can I give to become an asset to the team? Then, look internally and ask: What can I do to better my character and better myself to make sure I am an asset to the team?
Once you become a better individual >> You become a better help to your team >> You are a better help to your department >> You are better for the company >> And overall, better at meeting EdgeConneX (or your company’s) goals and mission. By using that energy and your fresh perspective, it will be amazing to see how much you can accomplish.
Salute Mission Critical’s team shared their words of wisdom below:
Start Early: Begin your transition planning well in advance of your separation date. This will give you ample time to research and prepare for the civilian job market.
Take Advantage of Transition Assistance Programs (TAP): Attend TAP workshops, which provide valuable information on job search strategies, resume writing, interview skills, and other aspects of transitioning to civilian life. The DoD Skillbridge program and Hiring Our Heroes Fellowship programs are designed to assist service members in their transition process.
Translate Your Skills: Clearly articulate your military skills and experiences in a way that civilian employers can understand. Many military skills are transferable to civilian jobs, so emphasize your leadership, teamwork, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities. For example, learning about HVAC systems or plumbing in the military can translate into fantastic opportunities in the civilian world.
Network: Build a professional network by reaching out to fellow service members, friends, family, and acquaintances who can assist you in your job search. Attend job fairs, industry events, and join professional associations to expand your network further.
Research Civilian Careers: Explore different career paths and industries to find the right fit for your skills and interests. Research job market trends, salary expectations, and educational requirements for your desired roles. iMasons is also a great resource for transitioning members to learn about the digital infrastructure industry.
Bridge the Gap: Identify any gaps in your civilian skill set and take steps to bridge them. This could involve gaining additional education, certifications, or training to enhance your qualifications for specific jobs.
Utilize Military Resources: Make use of resources available to veterans, such as Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits, education assistance programs, and healthcare services. These resources can provide support during your transition.
Seek Mentors: Connect with veterans who have successfully transitioned to civilian careers. They can provide guidance, advice, and support as you navigate the transition process. Search for LinkedIn groups, veteran associations and even LinkedIn Influencers to find guidance through the process.
Data centers play a critical role in storing, processing, and distributing vast amounts of data that power our lives every day. As the world continues to rely on digital solutions to power its operations, data centers are a vital part of our modern technological landscape.
If you are a veteran and looking for a rewarding career, check out the opportunities in the data center industry!
Check out more key insights in our For Veterans By Veterans videos and blogs:
- Series of blog posts highlighting EdgeConneX Salutes Q&A interviews HERE.
- Subscribe to EdgeConneX YouTube HERE for more top tips and insights.
- Contact Salute Mission Critical for more information about their training programs: https://salutemissioncritical.com/contact-us/
Learn more about EdgeConneX Career Openings HERE.