Interview with A Veteran, Brian D.

Brian D. joined the Catalyst team in October, but has been in the national security space for decades. He served in the U.S. Army for five years, and is currently in the Army Reserves. In fact, when he recorded this interview, Brian was in the midst of his military reserve duty!

What is your favorite thing about working at Catalyst??

I have known both Rob and Tom for many, many years, and have always enjoyed working with them.? Catalyst is a direct reflection of both of these men.? Dedication to duty and, more importantly, dedication to their people.? Working for Catalyst has allowed me to continue to work in interesting fields and support critical missions.

How would you describe your military career??

Extremely lucky!? I have had some amazing opportunities throughout the thirty years I’ve worn the uniform… I have met and worked with true legends, and I have been able to accomplish every goal I’d ever set for myself and more.? I’ve learned what good leadership looks like and how the right mentor can be a powerful force multiplier.? Truly, truly lucky.

What is one piece of advice you received early in your career that you wish everyone could hear?

Be quiet and listen.??

What is the biggest lesson you learned over the course of your military experience?

Take care of your people.? Help them to achieve their goals.? Don’t worry about evaluations.? When given the opportunity to lead, LEAD.? Don’t fear assignments that are difficult or that take you out of your comfort zone.? You will most likely never be the smartest person in the room, so know who that person is.

What are you most passionate about professionally??

Now that I am in a place where I’ve done everything I’ve ever dreamed of doing, it’s time to help others to get across the goal line.? Secondly, getting the right people together who may not otherwise cross paths who can then accomplish the mission better and more efficiently by leveraging each other's skills.

What is your favorite thing to do outside of work????

Being a Dad.

What do you wish you had known before you began your career?

“This is going to be a wild ride.”

Do you have any general thoughts that you’d like to share?

I think President Eisenhower said it best when he stated, “History does not long entrust the care of Freedom to the weak or the timid.”