QTS felt like a continuation of service. It’s a mission driven organization with a strong operational mindset, where people are trusted to own real responsibility. Coming from the military, that mattered to me. I wasn’t looking for an environment where I’d be sidelined as an intern, I wanted to contribute meaningfully. From my first week, I was treated as part of the team, not a temporary add on, and that reinforced that I had made the right choice.
I served as an Army logistics officer. My role was to ensure people had what they needed when they needed it, whether that meant moving equipment across the country or coordinating operations overseas. The job required planning under pressure, leading teams, and managing complex systems where mistakes had real consequences. Those experiences shaped how I approach problem solving and leadership today.
What advice would you give to service members considering SkillBridge—and why should they consider QTS as their landing spot?
If you’re awarded the opportunity to participate in SkillBridge, do it. Choose a place that will challenge you and hold you to a high standard. At QTS, you’re not observing or treated like an intern, you’re working. You’ll learn quickly, be trusted with responsibility, and if you perform, there’s a real path forward. That level of accountability and opportunity makes QTS an amazing landing spot for transitioning service members.
How did your SkillBridge internship prepare you to contribute on day one in your full‑time role with QTS?
SkillBridge allowed me to onboard before my official start date, by learning internal systems, developing workflows, building relationships with coworkers, and gaining exposure to an entirely new industry. By the time I transitioned to a full-time role, I was already contributing to live projects instead of spending time ramping up. That early integration made the transition seamless.
Who at QTS—mentor, leader, or teammate—had the most meaningful impact on your journey, and how did they help you navigate your transition from service to civilian career?
My supervisor, Andrew Hedrick, along with the utilities engagement leadership team, had the greatest impact. They consistently took the time to explain not just what decisions were being made, but why. That context helped me quickly understand the business, think strategically and translate my military experience into value at QTS.
