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From Combat to Code: Den Dugan's Journey from Marine Corps to Microsoft

Gary Rohmann • August 13, 2024

Inspiring Veterans Podcast with Gary Rohmann , Episode 5


In this episode of the Inspiring Veterans Podcast, host Gary Rohmann talks with Den Dugan, a retired Major from the Marine Corps who has transitioned into a cybersecurity role at Microsoft. Dugan shares insights from his extensive military career and his transition to civilian life.


Tune in to the episode to hear about:

  • Den Dugan's journey through the military, starting as an enlisted Marine and transitioning to an officer with a focus on cybersecurity.
  • The challenges and opportunities he encountered during his service and how he balanced military duties with furthering his education.
  • His involvement in pioneering cybersecurity roles within the Marine Corps and his eventual transition to a civilian career at Microsoft.
  • Hiring Our Heroes, an organization under the Chamber of Commerce that connects the military community with American businesses, was pivotal in landing Den a fellowship that led to employment with Microsoft.
  • The importance of preparation and personal development during the transition from military to civilian life, including the need to "de-institutionalize" and assimilate into a new culture.
  • Dugan's advice to other veterans on managing the transition process, emphasizing networking, and continuous learning.


Learn more about Den Dugan:


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About Inspiring Veterans Podcast:

In each episode of the Inspiring Veterans Podcast, Veterans Coach Gary Rohmann invites veterans and professionals who support veterans to discuss the process of transitioning out of armed service into civilian society. The Inspiring Veterans Podcast aims to answer the question, “What’s next?”


Watch more episodes of Inspiring Veterans:


Connect and learn more from your host, Gary Rohmann:


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If you’re looking for a new job, you’re certainly not alone. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that 3.6 million employees quit their jobs in May of last year alone. Employees in all industries—including the promotional products industry—are searching for jobs that better align with their needs and wants. So many workers are changing jobs that HR experts are predicting a “talent tsunami.”  To ensure you don’t get caught up in the tidal wave of other applicants, you can follow a few simple strategies to stand out. Here are four suggestions to make you stand out. 1. Look to Your Network for Insider Information. The post-pandemic job market is competitive. Any referrals, insights or insider information can help you prepare for the interview. Check with your friends, former colleagues, and family members to learn what it’s like to work at a specific company or in a particular field. The more you know, the better you can position yourself as the best fit. 2. Customize Your Resume. You shouldn’t submit the same generic resume for every job. It’s better to reframe skills or accomplishments to suit the job you are applying for. You should tailor everything to the moment. For example, if you took on new responsibilities due to a company pivot or you learned a new skill during the pandemic, consider adding these to your resume and LinkedIn profile. 3. Highlight the Skills Employers Value Most. Emerging from the pandemic, employers want workers who are flexible, agile and willing to adapt quickly. In interviews, talk about these skills and the results you delivered for your company. If you are comfortable working from home and using virtual collaboration tools, mention your remote communication skills. 4. Be Camera-Ready for the Interview. Even after the pandemic, video meetings likely aren’t going away. You can stand out from other job candidates by showing employers that you are comfortable hosting and participating in video meetings. Be ready to flip on the camera and know how to adjust the video and audio. Dress professionally for all video interviews and always look at the camera—not yourself. 5. Always Practice. Prior to interviewing, practice answering the most basic questions that you know will come your way.
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