Serving With Honor, Finding Pride: Embracing Authenticity at Cisco

Serving With Honor, Finding Pride: Embracing Authenticity at Cisco

I am what someone would call an enigma — I simply do not make sense. I grew up in a military family. That is what I knew, that is what I was exposed to. It was ingrained in me that this is what we believe, how we vote, and how we love. As a military child, I was preconditioned to be subservient without questioning authority. As a child, I was ok with this — life…

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Honoring service: Cisco's commitment to veterans

Honoring service: Cisco's commitment to veterans

November 11—known as Veterans Day in the United States and Remembrance Day around the globe—is a day when country flags can be seen proudly displayed throughout many communities. You may see banners, signs, and other symbols of remembrance thanking Veterans for their service, or encounter a parade filled with Veterans and their families dressed in their patriotic best.  It is also the day where many of us thank the people who served their country for…

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Finding My Place, Part Three: Translating Military Skills to Cybersecurity Leadership

Finding My Place, Part Three: Translating Military Skills to Cybersecurity Leadership

When I left the military, I had some big misconceptions. I thought jumping into a leadership position at a big company like Cisco would be a breeze. I had already led Marines into conflict zones, so how hard could it be? But, after being turned down several times for leadership positions at several different companies, I had to rethink my strategy. It turned out that I had a lot to learn about the business world, especially the business…

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Finding Support as a Navy Reservist at Cisco: My Bridge To Possible

Finding Support as a Navy Reservist at Cisco: My Bridge To Possible

Five years ago, I found myself sailing across the Arctic Circle to participate in the North Atlantic Treaty Organization’s largest exercise since the Cold War. Walking down the maze-like passageway, I passed miles of cable supporting the network onboard the large deck amphibious warship, where data would pass through hardware with a familiar “bridge” symbol. Standing watch in the Combat Information Center, we utilized phones with the familiar “bridge” symbol as well. Everything was in…

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