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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