"support and guidance from fellow veterans proved invaluable" Pierre Pepin

Main idea: Embrace change by utilizing transferable skills, continuously learning, and building new networks, while maintaining core values and identity, to navigate transitions successfully.

1. What inspired you to transition from military to civilian life, and how did you prepare for this significant change?

Transitioning from military to civilian life due to a service-related medical condition presented both personal and professional challenges, intensified by a recent divorce and a potential relocation to Ottawa, had I accepted to stay in service and be promoted. To prepare, I focused on understanding my medical condition, identifying transferable skills like leadership and supply chain management, and expanding my network by connecting with civilian industry managers. Pursuing further education and certifications also boosted my employability. Despite the difficulty, embracing change and building a new support network were essential for a successful transition, enabling me to reshape my identity and career path outside the military.

2. Could you describe your current role in civilian life and how you arrived at this path?

Transitioning from a Major in the military to the civilian sector, I encountered challenges but navigated my path strategically through continuous learning. I used my military leadership and operations experience, enriched it with an Executive MBA from McGill / HEC and supply chain management executive specialization, and built a strong professional network. Meeting other leaders with diverse leadership styles in the civilian world further helped refine the type of leader I aimed to become. These efforts led me to become the Senior Director of Logistics and Operations at Intersis Capital, a business in the fencing industry. In this role, I leverage strategic oversight, project management, and supply chain skills to drive operations and lead a multidisciplinary team, showcasing the resilience and adaptability I've honed, informed by my diverse leadership encounters.

3. During your transition, what obstacles did you encounter, and what strategies proved instrumental in overcoming them?

During my transition to civilian life, I faced significant isolation and struggled to stay connected with fellow veterans and friends. This loneliness impacted my mental and physical health, highlighting the importance of social connections. To address this, I actively sought to renew my circle of friends and expand my social networks. Engaging in new hobbies, attending a civilian gym instead of the military base gym, and connecting with different communities was crucial. These efforts helped combat loneliness and were key to integrating into civilian life, building a new support network, and finding a sense of belonging in this new chapter.

4. In what ways have your military skills and experiences been an asset in your civilian career?

In my civilian career, my military skills, especially my determination and adaptability, have been invaluable. The military's emphasis on a can-do attitude and strategic problem-solving has allowed me to navigate complex situations and complete projects successfully. These attributes have enabled me to thrive in a dynamic business environment, enhancing operational efficiency and team performance with my military-honed resilience and strategic approach.

5. Are there any resources, networks, or strategies you found invaluable during your transition that you’d recommend to others?

In my transition, support and guidance from fellow veterans proved invaluable. One veteran, recognizing the importance of education for my civilian career, steered me towards an Executive MBA, significantly boosting my employability. Another, who had faced similar personal challenges, offered indispensable advice and support during my divorce, helping me through a particularly tough period. Additionally, emotional support from a veteran in tough times was critical. Their empathy and shared experiences provided the strength I needed to advance. This practical support from those who had previously navigated similar paths highlighted the essential role of veteran networks in my successful transition.

6. Reflecting on your transition, what piece of knowledge or advice do you wish had been shared with you beforehand?

Reflecting on my transition, I wish I had been better prepared for the cultural shock of moving from military to civilian life, especially learning civilian workplace norms like job titles, addressing colleagues, dress codes, and more. The shift from the military's structured environment to the civilian sector's diverse expectations was jarring. Adapting is crucial, as expecting the civilian world to conform to military ways can impede successful integration. Understanding this gap and preparing for the cultural shift would have significantly eased my transition, making it smoother and reducing stress.

7. How did you navigate the shift in identity from being in the military to reintegrating into civilian life, and what helped you through this process?

My journey from military to civilian life involved nuanced identity shifts. On the surface, I adapted to my new environment by changing my appearance, communication style, and routines to fit civilian norms. Yet, deep down, my identity stayed the same, deeply rooted in a family legacy of military service. Transitioning didn't change who I am at my core; it merely changed my role. This realization, that I've altered what I do without changing my essence, eased my transition. By embracing this mindset, I was able to adjust to civilian life smoothly, maintaining my foundational values and identity shaped by my past.

8. What aspects of military life do you find yourself missing the most, and how do you keep those memories alive?

Reflecting on what I miss most about military life, it's the people, not the organization or its direction. The unique bonds we formed through shared experiences are irreplaceable. To preserve these connections, I actively stay in touch with those I served with. We organize meetups, our families have become close, and our kids are now friends. These gatherings allow us to share stories and support each other through past and present challenges. This sense of continuity and community helps bridge my transition from military to civilian life, maintaining the valuable relationships that define my service time.