Every year on November 11, countries around the world celebrate those who have served in their armed forces. The United States celebrates Veterans Day and Canada, Australia, South Africa and many European countries celebrate Armistice or Remembrance Day. In celebration of this holiday, ZS veterans reflected on their time in the military and the invaluable experiences that have translated into a successful career at ZS.
Associate Consultant Michael, based in ZS’s New York office, is an active member of Veterans@ZS--ZS’s dedicated veterans resource group, which gives ZS veterans from all nations a network to connect, share knowledge and support one another in translating their military experience into professional success.
Michael has actively served in the U.S. Army Reserve National Guard for 10 years. In his current role as Executive Officer of the Finance Battalion, he is responsible for managing staff-level officers, filling in for the commander in his absence and ensuring all unit training meets the commander’s intent.
"The military has taught me to put everything into perspective and appreciate the little things in life, which has directly translated to my work at ZS,” said Michael when asked about the biggest lesson he’s learned from his service. “At the end of a long day, I am always appreciative that I get to go home to my own bed, a hot shower and a warm meal.”
Working in the military reserve, Michael can be called to active duty at any time for training events or disaster relief efforts, which happen often during hurricane season. “Being a reservist can be challenging, but ZS has always been supportive,” said Michael. “I do my best to give ample notice to my project teams but despite the occasional burden, every ZSer I work with has be flexible and understanding.”
Chicago Principal Glenn had a varied career in the U.S. Army. After basic training, he spent two years serving at Fort Riley, Kansas before attending West Point's Prep School and later West Point where he majored in electrical engineering. Glenn served as an Intelligence Officer in Japan and spent three years as a detachment commander in the 5th Special Forces Group—graduating from Airborne and Ranger schools, as well as several National Security Agency schools, along the way.
“I have no doubt that the experience I had in the Army and the lessons I learned there are what have made me successful today,” said Glenn.
Philadelphia Principal John proudly served in the U.S. Air Force attached to the Logistics Command’s Headquarters and Combat Communication Squadrons, as well as the Air National Guard. “My diverse deployments gave me the opportunity to serve alongside all branches of the military,” said John. “The lessons I learned about collaborative teamwork, leadership and selfless commitment to others have greatly shaped my character.”
Principal Aaron may live in Zurich now, but before moving abroad he served as a member of the U.S. Army. “I carry many of the lessons that I learned in the Army into both my personal and professional life,” said Aaron. “Most importantly, the selflessness with which leaders served their country and their fellow soldiers has helped shaped the leader that I try to be at ZS.”
On behalf of ZS, thank you to Michael, Glenn, John, Aaron and all those who have bravely served their countries around the world.
