National Hire a Veteran Day: Three Textron Aviation employees share military-to-civilian transition insight

Veterans are a vital component of the Textron Aviation team, bringing exceptional dedication, resilience and leadership to the organization.

Transitioning from the military to civilian workforce can be a substantial career adjustment. We asked three military personnel – an Air Force veteran, Navy veteran and current Air National Guard member – to share their military background, the challenges of transitioning to a civilian career and the personal significance of National Hire a Veteran Day.

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With a deep-rooted passion for aviation, joining the United States Air Force in 2000 was a practical decision for Josiah Garth. Throughout his 20-year military career, he had the privilege of working with cutting-edge aerospace technology and contributing to missions that shaped global operations. Today, he brings that same dedication and expertise to his role as a Program Manager on the Military Programs team. 

Can you describe the most difficult thing about your military-to-civilian transition?

Finding my purpose. After years of service, purpose becomes more than just a word—it becomes your compass. It’s what gets you out of bed before the sun rises, what drives you to give your all, and what keeps you grounded when things get tough. But when that chapter closes, it can feel like the compass is spinning. I am grateful my job at Textron Aviation is aligned with my new purpose of helping veterans transition to the civilian workforce.

What’s one thing you wish every employer understood about hiring veterans? 

Veterans bring a wealth of soft skills that are often hard to teach but critical for team success, such as:

- Leadership under pressure

- Adaptability and resilience

- Strong work ethic

- Team cohesion and collaboration

- Problem-solving in dynamic environments

- Accountability and integrity 

These qualities can elevate any team, especially in fast-paced or high-stakes environments.

What does National Hire a Veteran Day mean to you personally?

I see it as another opportunity to recognize and support our veteran community. 

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Kylie's decision to join the military was driven by a desire to be part of a larger purpose. With a longstanding passion for service, she is proud to have the opportunity to defend the nation's freedom. Her family has a strong military heritage, with her father and both grandfathers having previously served. Kylie is currently a member of the Kansas Air National Guard, a component of the United States Air Force, and works as a Human Resources Business Partner at Textron Aviation.

How has your military experience shaped your approach to working at Textron Aviation?

The lessons, skills and leadership the military has instilled in me have transferred well into my civilian career at Textron Aviation. The Air Force core values align with the values at Textron Aviation – Be Human, Be Trustworthy, Be Collaborative and Be Legendary.

What advice would you give to other military personnel considering a similar career path?

Navigating transition and change can be challenging. For a smooth transition, it is essential to surround yourself with a supportive network. At Textron Aviation, military personnel can leverage a social network and an employee resource group for support. In the military, understanding the "why" behind your role and how it contributes to the mission is crucial. Similarly, in the civilian world, seeking to understand how your work drives the organization's mission forward is vital for success.

What does National Hire a Veteran Day mean to you personally?

I am a strong advocate for the recruitment of veterans and service members throughout the year, not just on National Hire a Veteran Day. Recognizing the value of their skillsets, leadership abilities and experience is crucial, as these attributes are in high demand and highly transferable to civilian careers. By hiring veterans, organizations can tap into a wealth of talent and expertise that can drive success. 

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Steven has been passionate about flying since childhood, inspired by a friend's father who served as a pilot in Vietnam and later flew jet fighters in the U.S. Air Force.He attended the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy and went on to serve in the U.S. Navy, flying F/A-18 Hornets and Super Hornets and becoming a test pilot. At Textron Aviation, Steven works as a company test pilot, primarily with Defense and Special Missions, where he uses his military skillset to support product development, customer training and certification work across product lines.

What drew you to your current role at Textron Aviation after your service?

I knew I wanted to stay in the aviation industry, so I reached out to veterans who had recently transitioned into the civilian workforce. Flight testing was a natural career path, and Textron Aviation had opportunities to explore. As a native Kansan, it was an easy decision to bring my family to the Midwest, and we are proud to call Wichita home.

What do you wish non-veteran employers better understand about the challenges veterans face when entering the workforce?

My biggest challenge was a loss of identity. Military service requires an intensive initial training period that fundamentally reshapes one's life around service. After leaving the military, I experienced the opposite–my social network, daily routine and priorities changed, and it took time to adjust. Fortunately, I have received fantastic mentorship along the way to help me adapt to new surroundings and thrive in my new role.

What does National Hire a Veteran Day mean to you personally?

As a veteran, it’s important to tell our stories and support each other as we move forward into post-military lives. Occasions like National Hire a Veteran Day offer a chance to reflect on where we come from and how we can best support our community.

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At Textron Aviation, we’re proud to stand with those who’ve served – and to offer careers where their mission continues. Apply today at txtav.com/military.