At TransAm, we are proud to have a diverse team with unique backgrounds that contribute to our success. This blog features members of our IT department who have transitioned from military service to the tech world. Their experiences and skills bring a unique perspective and strength to our team, enriching our company’s culture and capabilities.
From Military Policeman to Service Desk Manager
Tim Taylor’s journey began in 2004, inspired by the events of September 11th. He joined the Army as a Military Policeman and quickly found himself at Fort Bragg (now Fort Liberty), North Carolina, after completing Basic and Airborne Training. Tim served in three combat deployments—two in Iraq and one in Afghanistan—and worked on a joint counterterrorism exercise with ASEAN in Indonesia. His service also included roles as an Investigator, performing interviews and collecting forensic evidence.
After leaving the military, Tim pursued his passion for computers, utilizing the GI Bill to earn an Associate’s Degree in Computer Engineering Technology and a Bachelor’s Degree in IT Operations and Management. He joined TransAm, where he has steadily progressed through various roles and is now the Service Desk Manager. Tim and his team handle all incoming IT requests, providing timely and cost-effective solutions to business challenges.
Tim’s Advice for Veterans: “Envision where you want to be in a few years and start making steps today to position yourself to be the obvious choice. Whether through work experience, education, or certifications, there are always paths to your desired destination.”
From Convoy Security to Infrastructure Engineer
Logan Townsend’s military career began with training as a wheeled vehicle operator and later as a Military Policeman. His first deployment to Iraq involved convoy security, while his second deployment saw him training Iraqi police and providing specialized security for VIPs. The transition from the Army Reserves to IT was driven by a desire for a stable paycheck and less physical strain compared to his previous work as a commercial carpenter.
Logan currently serves as an Infrastructure Engineer at TransAm, a role that requires managing networks, servers, storage, firewalls, and system administration. His attention to detail and ability to manage multiple responsibilities are skills honed from his military experience.
Logan’s Advice for Veterans: “Attention to detail is crucial in IT. Minimizing mistakes and maximizing productive time will take you far. Plus, it’s nice being able to sit in a chair all day.
From Infantryman to IT Infrastructure Manager
Adam York served as an 11B Infantryman in the Army, with deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan, and participated in NATO training exercises. His military service provided invaluable skills in problem-solving, time management, and multitasking. After an injury, Adam transitioned to IT, pursuing a degree in Information Technology with an emphasis on network administration.
As the IT Infrastructure Manager at TransAm, Adam oversees the strategic planning, development, and execution of the company’s IT infrastructure. He ensures that the infrastructure team is equipped to deliver seamless and secure IT experiences for all users, aligning IT initiatives with business goals.
Adam’s Advice for Veterans: “The IT industry offers a wide range of career paths. Your unique background as a veteran provides a strong foundation for a successful and fulfilling career in IT. Embrace the challenge and believe in your capabilities.”
From Network Communications Systems Specialist, to
IT Support Technician
Nathanael Willey started his military career as a 25Q Multichannel Transmission Systems Operator-Maintainer, focusing on satellites. He later transitioned to a 25H Network Communications Systems Specialist, gaining experience in server management and encryption devices. Nathanael’s military experience included supporting NATO’s Africa Data Sharing Network and the ROK Army in Korea.
Currently serving as an IT Support Technician, Nathanael handles helpdesk tickets, account creation, and automation processes, ensuring minimal downtime and efficient company operations.
Nathanael’s Advice for Veterans: “If this field interests you, get your foot in the door and your face in front of people. If you enjoy problem-solving and building tangible processes, it’s the place to be.”
From Security Forces to IT Tech Support Technician
Jeffrey Johnson enlisted into the United States Air Force as 3P0X1 Security Forces in 2004. His initial assignment after Basic Training and Tech School was Ramstein Air Base, Germany. Jeff has deployed to several locations throughout the Middle East and Southeast Asia, including one tour in Balad, Iraq where he conducted intelligence gathering for high-value-targets (HVT) and weapons caches, and Manas Air Base, Kyrgyzstan where he provided air base defense for transiting U.S. military personnel/coalition forces in and out of Afghanistan.
After 20 years, Jeff retired out of the Air Force and has started the next phase of his working career with TransAm. As an IT Tech Support Technician, Jeff handles helpdesk tickets ensuring prompt resolutions resulting in unhindered daily company operations.
Jeff’s Advice for Veterans: “The core values, training, and professional/personal experiences accrued throughout one’s military career form a strong foundation. Taking these and applying them to your future endeavors are the hallmark to a successful and fruitful career”.
These veterans have brought invaluable skills and experiences from their military service to our IT department. Their stories of dedication, adaptability, and continuous learning serve as an inspiration to all, showcasing the significant contributions veterans can make in the tech industry. At TransAm, we are honored to have such talented individuals on our team and are committed to supporting veterans in their career transitions.
