What comes next when you take off the uniform and begin a new chapter? In this episode of Leadership Blueprints, BJ Kraemer kicks off the annual DoD-to-AEC series with fellow veterans and MCFA teammates Jesse G-Johnson, Pete Anzovino, and Russ Destremps. They share stories about their transitions into civilian life, the experiences that helped them find their place, and what they are still learning along the way. They explore how a military background can open doors in architecture, engineering, and construction, and how that experience continues to shape a career well beyond the first civilian job. They also offer their perspectives on joining a new organization, contributing to its future, and discovering opportunities they might not have considered while serving. Together, they take a closer look at what veterans bring to the workplace and how employers can create opportunities for that talent to grow. Finally, they explore belonging, a renewed sense of purpose, and building a future alongside people with different experiences. Tune in to learn about life after military service and the possibilities for veterans in the built environment.
Key Points From This Episode:
- Meet Jesse, Pete, and Russ and hear what drew each veteran to MCFA.
- Discover why military planning and adaptability can translate into value in AEC.
- Learn how Pete used his SkillBridge fellowship to explore where he could contribute.
- Explore how Russ identified his non-negotiables before choosing his next role.
- Hear what Pete wishes he had done earlier to prepare for his military transition.
- Understand why leaving a shared sense of urgency was a struggle for Jesse.
- Consider how losing familiar technical expertise can affect an experienced leader.
- Find out how Russ balanced a connection to the mission with learning how a business works.
- Uncover why being a good teammate must be paired with understanding value creation.
- Recognize why learning from civilian colleagues can strengthen your next chapter.
- See how taking care of people provides a familiar thread in an unfamiliar industry.
- Examine why curiosity, ownership, and initiative matter more than rank at MCFA.
- Get advice on how to own your career while accepting that you are still learning.
- Assess why expecting a checklist for every responsibility may make MCFA a poor fit.
Quotes:
“Though many veterans may not have construction or engineering experience, very high level and conceptually, they understand this industry very, very well from how things get planned for and executed.” — Jesse G-Johnson
[0:11:54]“I knew I didn’t know everything about the job, but I knew I had skills.” — Pete Anzovino
[0:15:27]
“Being a good dude alone is actually not enough in corporate life. So you do need to build your business acumen.” — Jesse G-Johnson
[0:35:33]
“Find an organization, not just that has a military connection, but has people inside of it that can broaden you to become better inside of the industry that you’re entering into.” — Russ Destremps
[0:37:05]
Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:
What is Leadership Blueprints?
Leadership Blueprints is a podcast dedicated to helping leaders align teams, navigate chaos, and accomplish the mission. Hosted by BJ Kraemer—West Point graduate, combat veteran, and President & CEO of MCFA—this show dives into the principles, stories, and strategies behind effective leadership.
With a background in military service and experience leading teams in business, infrastructure, and complex projects, BJ understands that success comes down to execution, adaptability, and leading people well. Through in-depth interviews with accomplished leaders across business, sports, the military, and beyond, Leadership Blueprints will help you bring your vision to reality on projects that shape communities and industries.
Whether you’re leading in the boardroom, on the field, in the military, or within your own organization, this podcast is designed to provide the tools and mindset needed to lead with clarity, resilience, and purpose. Subscribe now and start building your Leadership Blueprint.