Tom Gallagher
Title: Senior Vice President of Supply Chain
Company: TruGrid
Military Branch: U.S. Marines
Military title/rank: E5 Sergeant
Years Served: 6 years
How did serving in the military help prepare you for a job in the clean energy industry?
Serving in the military prepared me for the clean energy industry in many ways. It taught me the value of teamwork and adaptability, helping me adjust quickly to new challenges. My experience as a Marine also strengthened my leadership skills and the importance of collaboration, all of which are essential in driving forward in this field.
What advice do you have for veterans exploring a job in the clean power industry?
Find a mentor—it made a big difference for me. Look for someone who has also served in the military and successfully transitioned to civilian life. Adjusting from military to civilian roles takes time, so having someone who understands that journey can be incredibly helpful.
What advice do you have for companies looking to hire veterans?
Do it. Veterans bring a strong sense of accountability, motivation, and a unique ability to see both the big picture and the importance of the smaller tasks that make it happen. They’re reliable, driven, and highly adaptable—qualities that make them valuable assets to any team.