Alumni Profile: Ryan

Each quarter, we highlight a different member of our alumni community. We want to celebrate your victories and help you find long-term success in your civilian career. We served together in the military and we continue to root for our brothers and sisters’ achievements after service. This quarter, meet Ryan.

Ryan currently serves as a FEMA Corps Unit Leader

Military Background: Ryan’s military career spans more than 20 years in the U.S. Army. After serving as an enlisted service member for 10 years, Ryan transitioned into a leadership position. As a Senior Noncommissioned Officer, he managed three staff sergeants and 35 soldiers. Ryan was also responsible for developing and executing training plans. Rising to the rank of Chief Warrant Officer, Ryan’s many accomplishments included receiving the Top 40 Under 40 Military Award for the Class of 2017.

Career Background: After retiring from the military, Ryan began working as a unit leader for the federal sector of FEMA in the AmeriCorps Southern Region. In this role, Ryan is responsible for training and coordinating teams of young adults who commit themselves to 12 months of service.

Current Position: FEMA Corps Unit Leader 

Ryan pictured with his family at his retirement ceremony.

Experience with Hire Heroes USA: While transitioning out of the military, Ryan took advantage of Hire Heroes’ resources to prepare for his job search. Hire Heroes helped Ryan prepare his resume, building and maintaining his confidence throughout the process.

Alumni Involvement: As a Hire Heroes alum, Ryan enjoys connecting with individuals who are currently transitioning out of the military. With his transition fresh in mind, he is able to help others understand this phase and provide insights to the federal hiring process.

Ryan and his son in their respective uniforms.

Most Important Career Advice: Ryan recognizes the transition from the military to civilian workforce can be challenging. He recommends doing your research so you can  set realistic expectations for the positions and salaries that fit your skill set.

What I’ve Learned: Through Hire Heroes, Ryan learned how to tailor his resume to the positions he was applying to, ensuring he highlighted his diverse skill set. In his current role as a Unit Leader, he shares this tactic to help individuals with their own resumes.

If you’re a Hire Heroes Alumnus and you’d like to learn more about additional services, volunteer opportunities or the chance to share your story, visit the Alumni page and email Matt Kohler to get started: mkohler@hireheroesusa.org.