Grayson’s journey from the Air Force to JP Cullen highlights the value of the SkillBridge program for transitioning military personnel. Originally from Louisville, Kentucky, Grayson served over eight years as a pilot for Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPAs) after graduating from the Air Force Academy with a degree in business management. Through the SkillBridge program, Grayson was able to smoothly transition into civilian life by gaining hands-on experience in construction and project management with JP Cullen. The program allowed him to move closer to family and find a career that aligns with his values and goals. Grayson credits SkillBridge with providing him the perfect opportunity to leverage his military skills and begin a fulfilling new chapter in the construction industry. To learn more about Grayson’s experiences and insights on transitioning from the military to a civilian career, read below:
What was your background before joining JP Cullen?
I’m from Louisville, Kentucky originally. I played football in high school and was recruited by a few schools. I visited the Air Force Academy and was blown away by the campus and level of academics. I decided to sign with the Air Force Academy and went to school there, majoring in business management.
I decided I wanted to become a pilot while I was at the Academy. I didn’t know how long of a commitment I wanted, so I chose to fly Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPAs), which had a shorter service requirement. RPAs in a nutshell fighter-jet size drones that are flown through satellite link, with mine being the MQ-9 specifically. They are meant for intelligence and surveillance and also have combat capabilities.
I spent 8+ years total in the Air Force. I chose JP Cullen because of the family values and the construction and project management skills I would learn for my career.
What valuable lessons from your time in the Air Force do you apply in your daily professional life?
Time management and communication skills have been great for the job site. The interpersonal skills you learn working with both enlisted and officer personnel gives you the ability to communicate at all levels. The military also gives you a good sense of prioritization and time management. These are paramount on the job site when multiple tasks need to be accomplished.
How was your experience starting with SkillBridge? What insights can you share about this program?
My experience with the SkillBridge program gave me everything I wanted. First, I was able to move to Wisconsin and be closer to my family. My wife, daughter, and I were stationed in Las Vegas, so this was a welcomed change. Second, I was able to begin my career transition into construction with a large company that also had the values I feel aligned with myself.
The SkillBridge program is a great asset to both transitioning service members and corporate companies. It allows military members a better chance at success after they transition by getting their foot in the door somewhere and gaining new skills. Also, many military members transition and unfortunately have no job lined up after. Corporate companies gain hard-working people who have demonstrated sought-after career skills and can make an impact at their companies.
What has been the most challenging aspect of your transition into the civilian workforce?
Transitioning into a different career field. My time flying in the Air Force taught me many soft skills that I still use, but I’m constantly learning new technical skills at the job site.
What advice would you give to military personnel seeking to transition into civilian careers?
Look into multiple companies. Do not settle for a job just because it’s easy or seems like the only choice. Put yourself out there and connect with as many people as possible.
What do you like best about working at JP Cullen?
Learning new things every day at the job site and watching the project develop. I loved building things as a child and I have a big interest in real estate / commercial spaces. I love to see construction developments unfold and see a tangible product happen. I also plan to start my MBA this fall to learn more about the business side of general contracting, ultimately using that to make myself a better asset to the company.
What is your proudest achievement?
Marrying my wife and starting our family together. Career-wise, I would say earning my RPA pilot wings in the Air Force.
