At this years Breakfast with Leaders event hosted by the Employer Support of Guard and Reserve (ESGR), leaders gathered to reflect on what it means to support those who serve. Tyler Sears, a Coast Guard veteran and current JP Cullen Preconstruction Engineer, was invited to speak on his experience when transitioning from a full-time active-duty member to part time with a full-time civilian career. Throughout his speech, Tyler recalled two questions that guided him through his 11 years of service:
“Is the Coast Guard better for my service, and am I better because of the Coast Guard?”
These questions were posed by an extremely influential commanding officer that cultivated a powerful culture for the entire unit – which ultimately instilled a deep, genuine belief of value, success, and knowledge for Tyler. This leadership philosophy shaped Tyler’s approach to his management, work, and culture. Now, he applies the same standard to his career:
“Is JP Cullen better for my service, and am I better because of JP Cullen?”
For him, the answer was a confident “150% yes.”
Meet the Speaker
After transitioning out of active-duty service, Tyler joined JP Cullen in the summer of 2022. Three months into his role, he submitted a proposal to executive leadership about the benefits of implementing a strategic veteran hiring and retainment program. This program sparked a company-wide initiative that led to the establishment of the Veterans Committee, made up of veterans, veterans’ spouses, and active reserve members. Tyler Sears now serves as the first president of the JP Cullen Veterans Committee.
The mission of the committee is to support veterans and active reserve members. The committee works hard to provide recognition, resources, and opportunities, which enables them to build their careers and give back to the community they continuously serve.
This initiative is more than a policy, it’s a part of JP Cullen’s core values, and it reflects the belief that when employees of all backgrounds feel supported and valued, the entire company grows.
How Employers Can Support
Tyler’s speech introduced two powerful questions that now serve as a framework for how we support our veteran employees.
“Is JP Cullen better for my service?”
This question asks whether a veteran’s skills and experience are truly valued and used to strengthen the company. As an employer, we can ensure the answer is yes by creating structure, visibility, and purpose around every veteran’s contribution. Below are just two ways to get started:
Translating Military Experience into Civilian Careers
- Veterans bring unique, high-level skills to the workforce. Translating these skills to a resume can be challenging at times. When we have a veteran candidate, JP Cullen connects with an employed veteran to review the candidates’ resume and assist the hiring team with translating their Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) to make sure that the candidates’ military skills are not overlooked. The Disabled Veterans National Foundation (DVNF) provides a Military to Civilian Occupation Translator that helps Veterans find civilian job titles that best work with their skills.
Diversifying the Workforce
- We value both diversity of individuals and thought. Military service is a powerful source of diversity. Veterans bring distinct problem-solving skills, a mission-first mindset, and the unwavering ability to lead through uncertainty. By including veterans in our hiring strategy, internal committees, and leadership pipeline, we’re diversifying perspectives and strengthening our company. Learn more about how we build an inclusive workplace here.
“Am I better because of JP Cullen?”
This question reflects whether the veteran is being supported, developed, and empowered in their post-military journey. Our answer is built into how we care for our service members – both during and after their time in uniform.
Family Support During Military Obligations
- Military service impacts the whole family, and we extend our support accordingly. From check-ins to logistical support, to household help, we aim to reduce the stress placed on families during times of service. When a veteran knows their family is supported, they can focus on their mission without distraction. This builds loyalty and trust – reinforcing that sacrifice is a shared experience, honored at every level.
Ongoing Support for Service Members
- Whether someone is separating from active duty or returning from a reserve deployment, we prioritize a smooth and seamless transition with no disruptions. Just a clear path back to work with the same trust, opportunity, and belonging that existed before. A seamless return ensures that veterans feel secure in their job and valued for their service. When a veteran knows they won’t fall behind, they stay committed to both their country and their company.
The Two ‘Yeses’
This speech reminds us that those two questions aren’t just for individual reflection, but also a shared responsibility between the employee and employer, measuring the mutual growth that comes from an aligned workplace culture. When both answers are a “yes,” it’s not just a win for the individual, it’s a reflection of a workplace culture that values service, supports growth, and leads with purpose. We are proud to foster an environment where the answer can be a confident yes on both sides.
Our mission is to identify, train, and retain the best people to serve our customers. We believe in hiring people that want to make a difference, and that includes individuals that have served our country. If you’re looking for a workplace that values your experience, invests in your growth, and supports your continued service, come work with us. For more information, see our Careers Page.
– Author: Emma Kinzelman, Marketing Intern | About Emma: Currently, I am completing a summer internship program run through Blackhawk Technical College. I chose marketing because I’ve always loved the mix of creativity and strategy in the field. Marketing challenges me to think outside of the box to solve problems, create connections, and make a lasting impact. I’m excited to keep learning and growing as I prepare for a future in the world of business!
