‘A Day in the Life’ of our amazing Military Service people with Bosslift

ASML has a long tradition of hiring ex-military members – so much of the skill and discipline learned in the services translates effectively to roles at all levels of our organization. However, having never been exposed to the nuances of military life, I never really had a clear understanding of why.

That all changed when I attended a Bosslift event in July. The Bosslift program is designed to gain and maintain support from all public and private employers of Guard and Reserve members, develop strong relations between employers and the Department of Defense, and give employers a better understanding of what their employees did during military service.?

The ‘Day in the Life’ experience they invited us to was incredible. What a great day! We saw a number of demonstrations (including a Blackhawk helicopter flight and one from the base firefighting team), went on a C-130 cargo plane tour, and spoke to base staff to learn more about their day-to-day and the skills they develop in the service.

The people we met were true experts in their field and I can now see so clearly how those skills and experience contribute so deeply to ASML – some of these things could never be taught in formal education.?

I’m planning to get more ASML leaders along with me to their next event, so like me, they can even better appreciate just how valuable our veteran employees at ASML are. Victor (who used to serve) and James from our Wilton factory came with me this time, so I’ve asked them to share their own experience. Read on below!

Victor Crudo

What really stood out to you at the Bosslift event?

I’m a military veteran myself, but this event exceeded my expectations! It was so well organized and compelling. We spent much of the day meeting military personnel and getting to know what they do, and each and every one of them was so proud of their work.

There were several demos throughout the day and of course the Blackhawk flight as the grand finale was very exciting. But, what I enjoyed most was listening to the stories of the service men and women. Each person opened up with ‘why’ this event was so important and what it means to them. They explained that without companies like ASML who employ reservists and support them to perform their duties, they wouldn’t be able to provide for their families.

It provided so much insight into the roles our state guardsmen and reservists play in securing and protecting our nation and I came away appreciating their service and sacrifices even more.

Did anything surprise you about the technical abilities you witnessed?

Being a veteran of the Navy and helicopter squadron (I worked at Sikorsky Aircraft on Blackhawk helicopters), I was quite familiar with the technical abilities observed during the event. Many of the mechanical and electrical skill sets, specialized logistical support and quality control processes are applicable at ASML.

What was interesting was learning about the soft skills they develop. Leadership, loyalty, clarity and discipline are all vital. So is teamwork. There is such a high level of collaboration needed between every team for each to be successful in its own mission. For example, the pilots rely on the aircraft loadmasters, who rely on the flight line crew, who rely on the engine maintenance group, and so on.

From both your own experience and what you saw at this event, which roles and areas do you see veterans and active reservists being most suited to at ASML?

We have veterans and active reservists employed at all levels of the organization, from planning and manufacturing operations, to production and development engineering, to logistics. I think some of their core ingrained values, such as integrity, service and excellence, fit in nicely with ASML’s values. They are trained to strive for excellence while working together for a better good.

James Rivera

What was the main insight the Bosslift event left you with?

It was an eye-opening experience. I have always appreciated the service of the military, but I didn’t know the full extent of what the Army and Air National Guard Reserve does for our country and state.

Seeing all they do first-hand drove home to me their level of commitment. It goes beyond uniform. It’s a true sacrifice. I was also surprised by how much the National Guard does with limited funding.

Tell us your highlights from the day.

Overall the day was really a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

I enjoyed everyone's excitement to host and show us all they do. Their professionalism was impressive. It was great touring the facilities and getting to know everyone, from paramedics, to pilots, scientists, mechanics, the civil support team and all other ranking officers and specialists.??

I think for me the Blackhawk flight was the crown jewel.?It was amazing to fly in a Blackhawk helicopter, and even more amazing to see how well the pilots and crew managed the flight.

What impressed you most about the skill sets and abilities of military personnel?

Something I particularly noticed was the respect the officers showed each other and how they honored military rankings. That innate respect for others is a highly desirable trait for ASML and not one easily trained in the normal workplace.

I was also impressed by how the National Guard and Reserve are trained to perform under duress. This is a great skill to have when tasked to work on very precise, delicate or expensive equipment.

Has this experience changed your perspective on hiring veterans in any way?

I have always given thanks to our veterans but, I have to admit I’ve gained an entirely new respect and an even deeper appreciation for them after this experience. They are such a strong, committed and flexible workforce, who support and defend our nation with so many things. They have so much to offer ASML.

They’re highly trained in mechatronics, electrical, tactical, logistics and many more, trained to operate in high stress environments, trained to lead, and trained to respond to all types of events, often at a moment’s notice. These are all disciplines that ASML looks for.????????

As always, we are so thankful for the service of our National Guard and proud to be an employer of so many veterans and active reservists. You can find out more about the Bosslift Program here, and head to our website for open roles at ASML.?