New Battlefield, Same Mission: A Veteran’s Next Chapter
James, a former U.S. Navy cyber expert, found a new battlefield at Lockheed Martin—continuing his mission to protect the nation through innovation. Now an ISSO at Advanced Technology Laboratories, he’s using his military-honed skills to lead in cybersecurity and inspire what comes next. His story reflects how service doesn’t end, it evolves.
Honoring veterans goes far beyond Military Appreciation Month. It is part of a culture grounded in service, leadership, and purpose that continue long after military life ends.
When veterans transition to civilian careers, they do not leave their mission behind. They carry it forward, applying the same mindset to new challenges. That commitment drives innovation, strengthens teams, and advances national security.
James, an Information Systems Security Officer (ISSO) at Advanced Technology Laboratories (ATL), brings that mission to life every day. After five years in the U.S. Navy, he stepped into a new battlefield—cybersecurity—continuing to defend the nation through advanced technology and innovation.
A Passion Forged Early and Strengthened Through Service
James discovered his passion for technology early in life. That curiosity became a career path when he joined the Navy, where he served as an IT specialist, cyber analyst, and RF communications expert. He even supported missions aboard a submarine, using technical expertise in high-stakes environments.
His military experience sharpened more than just his skills. It solidified his purpose. James committed himself to protecting what matters most, a commitment that continues to guide him today.
While in the Navy, he earned a bachelor’s degree in computer and information science. Now, thanks in part to Lockheed Martin’s tuition assistance programs and emphasis on lifelong learning, he is pursuing a master’s degree in cybersecurity—proof that service-driven growth does not stop at transition.
Continuing the Mission Without the Uniform
When James prepared to leave active duty, he did not look for just any job. He looked for a place where he could keep serving.
He found that connection at ATL, where teams are developing next-generation defense systems and cyber tools that protect national interests. For James, it was not a new mission. It was the same mission, advanced through new tools, technologies, and teams.
A Community That Honors Service
Lockheed Martin’s veteran support programs helped James navigate his transition. Through veteran-focused onboarding, dedicated military relations managers, and a strong internal community of former service members, he found a workplace that not only respected his background but valued it.
“I discovered a workplace where my experience and leadership weren’t just respected. They were celebrated,” James said.
Today, he supports secure systems at ATL, applying his Navy-honed skills to help Lockheed Martin stay ahead of evolving threats in the cyber domain.
Still Serving. Still Leading.
James did not leave his calling behind. He built on it. At Lockheed Martin, he continues to lead with integrity, apply his mission-first mindset, and make a real impact through his work in cybersecurity.
For veterans like James, service does not end. It evolves. Through mentorship, career growth, and mission-driven innovation, that evolution takes shape every day.
Because building the best means empowering those who have already served with purpose.