Veterans of GovCIO: Mike Blanton
Meet Mike Blanton, Vice President for GovCIO’s Deployable Services team. With a rich military background, Mike’s leadership is grounded in the principles of decisiveness, discipline and an unwavering commitment to teamwork. In the following interview, he shares how his experiences have influenced his professional journey, the key lessons he’s taken with him and offers valuable advice for veterans transitioning to civilian careers.
How has your military experience shaped your approach to problem solving and leadership?
I think the most important thing is to make quick decisions. In the military, many of our actions have real-life consequences, and there are lives at stake downrange. Being able to assess a situation quickly and execute a plan is essential.
Can you share a specific skill or lesson from your time in the military that has proven to be invaluable?
It’s all about teamwork. No one individual can accomplish anything alone; success relies on the team. The key piece is effective communication, so it’s important to have regular meetings and discussions with everyone on your team.
How do the values and discipline you learned in the military influence the way you interact with clients and colleagues?
My team often hears me say, “find a way to yes.” Even though we work in IT, our efforts support those whose lives may be on the line downrange. There are countless ways to say no, but I encourage everyone to focus on finding a way to yes. No matter how challenging it may be, let’s identify that path first, and then we can figure out the details together.
What advice would you give other veterans transitioning in the civilian sector and how can they leverage a military background for success?
Knock out your certifications. You have a time that you’re kind of ramping down with your career, whether that’s 5 years or 20 years, so complete the certifications that you need to go forward. Instead of chasing the money, focus on finding a job that truly suits you. Just as employers seek candidates who fit their roles, you should look for opportunities that align with your goals. Concentrate on finding a position that matches your aspirations, rather than solely on the financial aspect. There will be plenty of time to grow your income later; prioritize the right opportunity for your career now.
What does being a veteran mean to you?
It’s a brotherhood. I still have close friends that I served with who were at my wedding. Even if we don’t see each other for 10 or 15 years, when we do reconnect, it feels like no time has passed. I hadn’t seen Roger Esteban in nearly 20 years, yet it was as if we picked up right where we left off. The bond we share is strong and it never goes away.
