Transitioning from military service to the civilian world can feel like navigating uncharted territory. Many veterans grapple with how to translate their unique skills and experiences into a fulfilling second career. Peter Vanderloo, a Marine Corps veteran and a “Happy Lawyer” at Verizon, offers an inspiring example of how to find unexpected connections between military life and corporate success. His story, initially shared in a podcast interview, reveals valuable insights for veterans seeking their own path, even if it seems tangential at first glance.
From Marine Corps Land Navigation to Commercial Real Estate Law
Peter’s journey began with a profound love for land navigation during his time in the Marine Corps. This might seem worlds away from the realm of law, yet Peter recognized a transferable skill. He realized that his spatial reasoning and attention to detail, honed through military training, were surprisingly relevant to commercial real estate law. This connection wasn’t immediately obvious, but Peter’s ability to see beyond the surface and identify tangential career paths became a cornerstone of his successful transition.
This realization underscores a crucial point for veterans: your military experience is richer and more versatile than you might initially perceive. Skills developed in the service, even those seemingly niche, can be surprisingly valuable in the civilian sector. Peter’s story encourages veterans to explore these less direct connections and consider careers they might not have initially thought of.
The “Happy Lawyer” at Verizon: A Culture that Values Veterans
Peter’s positive outlook is encapsulated in his self-proclaimed title, “Happy Lawyer.” This isn’t just a personal branding statement; it reflects his approach to life and work. He consciously chooses to embody positivity, even on challenging days, setting a tone for himself and those around him. This mindset, combined with his military background, has thrived at Verizon, a company known for its strong support of veterans.
Verizon’s commitment to hiring veterans is significant. The company has actively recruited and employed over 11,000 veterans and thousands of military spouses, demonstrating a genuine appreciation for the skills and values veterans bring to the workplace. This commitment creates a supportive environment where veterans like Peter can flourish and contribute their unique perspectives. Verizon recognizes that the discipline, leadership, and problem-solving abilities honed in the military are highly transferable assets in the corporate world.
Beyond Phones and Connectivity: Real Estate Law at a Tech Giant
When we think of Verizon, telecommunications and technology often come to mind. However, Peter’s role as a Commercial Real Estate lawyer highlights a less visible but equally critical aspect of the company’s operations. Verizon possesses a vast real estate portfolio, encompassing stores, warehouses, office buildings, and technology centers across the nation. Managing and optimizing this extensive portfolio requires a dedicated legal team, and that’s where Peter’s expertise comes into play.
This illustrates the diverse range of career opportunities available within large corporations like Verizon. Veterans often possess skill sets applicable to various departments and functions, far beyond the most obvious roles. Peter’s journey encourages veterans to look beyond surface-level perceptions of companies and explore the diverse internal structures and needs that might align with their skills.
Networking and Valor: Building Bridges in the Civilian World
Peter’s transition wasn’t solely based on individual effort; networking played a crucial role. His first civilian job at AOL came about through his professional network, emphasizing the importance of maintaining and leveraging connections, even those seemingly dormant. Veterans often underestimate the power of their military network, a bond forged through shared experiences and values.
He advises veterans transitioning to civilian life to actively cultivate and utilize their networks, reaching out to those who have successfully made the jump. This proactive approach can unlock doors to opportunities and provide invaluable guidance during the transition process.
Furthermore, Peter’s involvement in establishing and leading veteran employee resource groups at both AOL and Verizon showcases his continued commitment to the veteran community. He emphasizes the concept of “valor” extending beyond military service to include supporting fellow veterans in the corporate world. His efforts to unify and support veteran employees at Verizon exemplify this principle in action.
Storytelling and Continuous Growth: Keys to Career Success
Storytelling, a skill deeply ingrained in military leadership, has been instrumental in Peter’s career. He understands the power of narratives to connect with and inspire people, both in the military and corporate settings. This ability to communicate effectively and build personal connections through storytelling has enhanced his leadership and influence within Verizon.
Adding to his professional development, Peter pursued an MBA, which he credits with providing a deeper understanding of business operations, resource allocation, and return on investment. He emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and growth throughout one’s career, regardless of experience level. This commitment to lifelong learning and adaptation is a valuable trait for veterans navigating the evolving demands of the civilian workforce.
Verizon: An Employer of Choice for Veterans and First Responders
Peter expresses deep gratitude for his career at Verizon, highlighting the company’s genuine commitment to hiring and supporting veterans and first responders. With over 11,000 veterans already part of their workforce, Verizon stands out as an employer that not only values military experience but actively fosters a veteran-friendly culture.
For veterans seeking a company that appreciates their service, skills, and dedication, Verizon presents a compelling option. Peter’s story serves as a testament to the rewarding and unexpected career paths that can be found within such organizations. His journey, from Marine Corps land navigation to Verizon “Happy Lawyer,” exemplifies the potential for veterans to thrive in the civilian world by recognizing their transferable skills and embracing tangential career opportunities.
