Alumni Profile: Shane

Each quarter, we highlight a different member of our alumni community. When you’re a Hire Heroes alumnus, 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 throughout their civilian careers. This quarter, meet Shane.

After five years in the Army, Shane began her civilian career in HR.

Military Background: Shane served in the U.S. Army as an Human Resources Specialist for five years.

Professional Background: Shane attended the University of North Carolina at Pembroke where she earned a bachelor’s degree in English and language arts education. After graduating, she worked as an English teacher prior to joining the Army. While serving, Shane earned her masters degree in communications from Grand Canyon University. Upon transitioning out of the military, Shane accepted a position with Cielo Talent as an Onboarding Specialist before advancing to her current role at TDB Communications.

Current Position: HR Generalist  

Shane pictured with her family.

Experience with Hire Heroes USA: Shane worked with a Transition Specialist as she prepared to leave the military. Her Transition Specialist helped her search for civilian positions, strengthen her resume and prepare for interviews. At the time, Shane was also interested in potentially pursuing a federal career, so her Transition Specialist connected her with federal resume writers who could help her open the door to those opportunities.

What I Wish I Knew Before Transitioning Out of the Military: Looking back at her job search, Shane wishes she had been open to entry-level civilian positions sooner. In the beginning, she was set on finding a senior level HR role. However, when she ultimately accepted an entry-level position at Cielo Talent, she found a great learning opportunity. During her five months in that role, she grew her HR skills in the civilian workforce and became familiar with new HRIS systems, which ultimately prepared her to be a competitive candidate for her current position. She sees now that there was a lot of value in this path. Had she been open to entry-level positions earlier in the transition process, her job search would have gone faster and with less rejection.

Outside of work, Shane and her husband enjoy spending time outdoors.

What I Do Outside of Work: Shane enjoys spending time with her husband and son exploring their hometown of San Antonio, Texas. Their weekend adventures usually include hanging out at the park or spending a day at the beach. Additionally, Shane is a member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority and enjoys participating in volunteer work throughout the community. Most recently, Shane helped with a back-to-school supply drive for local students.

What I’m Most Proud of Post-Military: Shane is proud to serve in her current position and proud of the hard work that brought her here. As an HR leader, she is involved in shaping the direction of the company and defining HR’s role in supporting that growth. She is proud of the impact she has on TDB Communications.

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.