Brian Bilski | Northrop Grumman | 002

Summary In this conversation, Dr. Derek Wilson interviews Brian Bilski about his experience in the Marine Corps and his involvement in the creation of the SkillBridge program. They discuss the challenges of transitioning from the military and the importance of networking and tailoring resumes for job applications. They also touch on the future skills needed in the defense industry and the role of nonprofits in helping veterans find employment. The conversation provides valuable insights for veterans seeking career opportunities. The conversation covers various topics related to collaboration, self-efficacy, networking, and the future of resumes and the employment process. The guest discusses the importance of collaboration between aerospace companies and the potential for training courses near military bases. He also emphasizes the significance of self-efficacy and networking in transitioning from the military to civilian careers. Wilson provides advice on networking resources and the importance of interview coaching. He also shares insights on the future of resumes and suggests the use of QR codes and blockchain technology. The conversation concludes with a discussion on college football and a mutual appreciation for the passion of the sport. Keywords transitioning, SkillBridge program, networking, resumes, future skills, defense industry, nonprofits, veterans, collaboration, self-efficacy, networking, resumes, employment process, training courses, military bases, interview coaching, future of resumes, QR codes, blockchain technology, college football Takeaways Networking and tailoring resumes are crucial for veterans seeking employment opportunities. The SkillBridge program provides transitioning service members with internships and valuable work experience. The defense industry is focused on skills such as modeling and simulation, AI, logistics, supply chain, and engineering. Nonprofits like American Corporate Partners and Hire Our Heroes offer valuable resources and mentorship for veterans. Companies like Northrop Grumman have specific programs and portals for veterans to upload their resumes and connect with recruiters. Collaboration between aerospace companies can lead to shared training courses and opportunities for collaboration on projects. Self-efficacy is crucial for success in transitioning from the military to civilian careers. Networking and building connections are essential for finding job opportunities. Interview coaching and mock interviews can help veterans improve their interview skills. The future of resumes may involve the use of QR codes and blockchain technology. College football is a passionate sport that brings people together. Titles Future Skills in the Defense Industry The Creation and Impact of the SkillBridge Program The Passion of College Football Networking and Building Connections for Job Opportunities Sound Bites "Take those classes, take those courses, listen to folks who know what they're doing." "I wrote the language to make it law." "Modeling, simulation, AI, all that stuff is huge when it comes to designing and engineering." "But being able, if there was a way to reach in and see who is that Boeing or who is that Grumman or who is that BAE, a competitive mate type space that really should be on this project." "I've worked for Department of Defense, the VA, and now at Northrop Grumman. All three positions were because of my network and people I knew who referred me and who put me up for opportunities." "So yeah, that's why networking is so important just to, you know, get yourself on top of the pile and first in front." Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Technical Difficulties 07:03 Evolution of SkillBridge and Challenges in Implementation 08:29 Brian's Role in SkillBridge and its Success at Northrop Grumman 09:55 Expanding SkillBridge Opportunities for Enlisted Personnel 11:15 Cohort Model and Tailoring SkillBridge Programs 12:43 Specialized SkillBridge Programs and Future Plans 13:41 Other Programs and Opportunities for Veterans 15:08 Importance of Nonprofits in Supporting Veterans 19:59 Utilizing Nonprofits and Resources for Transitioning Veterans 22:21 Importance of Tailoring Resumes to Match Job Descriptions 23:44 Northrop Grumman's Resume Upload Portal and Sourcing Process 26:11 Utilizing Company-Specific Programs and Networking Events 28:47 Differentiating Between Competitive Companies in the Defense Industry 29:44 Collaboration and Training Opportunities in the Aerospace Industry 31:40 The Importance of Self-Efficacy in Transitioning from the Military 33:35 Networking and Building Connections for Job Opportunities 34:40 The Future of Resumes: QR Codes and Blockchain Technology 38:03 The Significance of Interview Coaching and Mock Interviews 53:30 The Passion of College Football