Kurt is an East Coast Lead supporting planning requirements and delivery on the Global Supply Chain team. Commissioned in 1989 as a Marine Officer, Kurt served as a Combat Engineer Officer and Director of Logistics. He was part of multiple combat deployments in support of Desert Shield/Desert Storm, Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. Kurt has also held roles as an Operations Officer, Executive Officer, Commander, Force Engineer, and Director of Logistics at various levels in the operating forces and joint assignments. After retiring from the Marine Corps in May 2019, he joined Northrop Grumman in 2020.
How long have you been with Northrop Grumman? How did you hear about us?
I began my journey with Northrop Grumman in May 2019 at a networking event and officially joined the company in February 2020. When transitioning out of the Marine Corps, I wanted to do good work with good people. When I decided to settle in my hometown of Melbourne, Florida, I searched for companies that met that criterion. With my Department of Defense career experience and my own family’s experience, I was familiar with Northrop Grumman products. My brother works in aerospace, so I asked him about the reputation of various companies located in Melbourne. Perhaps the most impactful was meeting new neighbors who were also veterans and worked for Northrop Grumman. This only further reinforced how welcoming and supportive the company is of veterans.
What is your military background? How did your military background set you up for the role you are in now?
As a Combat Engineer and Logistician, I served in operational and staff roles at all levels. The skills I learned in these roles, including multi-tasking, cross-functional coordination, attention to detail, strategic planning, time management, budgeting, and team building have all afforded me opportunities for increased responsibility.
These experiences taught me that I cannot know everything, but with the right people empowering and supporting me, I can get anything done. This has allowed me to have a direct, positive impact within my team and the overall enterprise.
What was your experience transitioning into Northrop Grumman as a veteran?
The hiring process was alien to me, as I am sure it is for most service members. I was thankful for friends and Operation IMPACT mentors who helped me navigate the application and hiring process. I understand how it can be frustrating when applying for jobs and you do not make it through to the next step. However, once offered a position at Northrop Grumman, the onboarding experience was impressive. The process was extremely organized and communication was efficient with my hiring manager who provided support throughout the entire onboarding experience. The equipment they provided helped me be as productive as possible. I continue to make an effort to tell all fellow service members transitioning out of the military to consider Operation IMPACT. The program’s resources and networking opportunities with our “Network of Champions” are great assets that can help veterans no matter where they want to end up.
What do you hope to gain from your new role?
Living is learning and I am excited to learn about a new industry and see how effective I can be utilizing my skills outside of a military environment. It is a change, yet accomplishing the mission is still the goal. I relish the opportunity to lead a team and exceed organizational and my personal goals. I also look forward to more opportunities to share my experience and advocate for other veterans in their transition.
What advice would you give to other veterans interested in a career in Northrop Grumman?
Persistence pays off. Northrop Grumman is a great place to work. While the offer may not come as quickly as you would like, when it does, it will be the right fit. I looked back at some of the roles I applied for and now understand why I was not a good fit.
Lastly, trust the process. Know that you are a valuable resource and that Northrop Grumman understands that value. The company is simply comprised of good people doing good work.
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