Crossroads
Career
I went from temp job to submarine nuclear reactor operator.
My wife and I moved to Atlanta to live with her aunt and look for jobs. The small Indiana town we were from didn’t offer too many opportunities. Of course, since I didn’t have experience, training or education, the jobs in Atlanta didn’t pay or offer me much either.
I ended up talking to a Navy Recruiter who told me about the nuclear power program. After a year of schooling, I qualified for my position aboard a submarine prototype. In fact, I did so well on the prototype, despite the fact that I had no actual sub experience, I was asked to stay on as an instructor.
I have two children now, so I am thinking about a shore-based career. The Navy will allow you to convert from one career to another. And, in fact, this kind of a move would benefit my career path. It’s a win-win situation.
When I leave or retire from the Navy, I will be qualified to work at an industrial control electronics position, or as a Nuclear Engineer. Plus, with the experience I have and the classes and exams I have taken translating to college credits, I will just about have my bachelor’s degree in nuclear engineering. Where else could I have gotten all that but the Navy?
– Gary Heppen
Petty Officer First Class, Electronics Technician
