After more than 20 years in Army intelligence, Navy brat Brandy Malone was confident she could adapt to most any civilian job.

“So, one of the questions that I asked during all of my interviews was whether or not the office celebrated people’s birthdays,” she said. “After being part of a work family for so long, this was a small way to find a similar environment. The response from the Schneider Electric hiring manager was, ‘We never miss one.’”

For Malone, the rest is career history. We asked Malone about her military career, transition and working in government policy. Her responses have been edited for brevity and clarity.

What was your military job?

As an intelligence officer, I participated in and led the analytical processes that inform our military and government leaders of enemy activities.

What was your biggest fear as you prepared to transition out of the military?

I was worried about translating my skills and talents into something that a hiring manager would understand, especially after a career in which it was largely discouraged to speak about what I did.

What turned out to be your biggest challenge?

My biggest challenge was understanding the sheer scope of opportunities within the private sector. It was a full-time job to research the various companies, positions and opportunities that might be a good fit.

Why did you choose this career path?

I credit this path exclusively to the Hiring our Heroes program, and the military and veterans affairs leader at Schneider Electric who offered me a route into the company.

Why this industry? What appealed to you?

During my fellowship, I quickly realized how vital the energy industry is to our national defense—from powering our military infrastructure and weapons systems to protecting our grid. The connection between energy and security seems obvious now, but Schneider’s role appealed to me and gave me an opportunity to continue the mission, so to speak.

Did social media play a role in your job search?

Yes! I signed up for the free LinkedIn Premium account offered to transitioning military members, and immediately started growing my network and researching companies. I sought out veterans, particularly those that had completed Hiring our Heroes Fellowships, to get their impressions of companies and learn about their positions. This technique gave me new perspectives and a lot of food for thought as they provided their transition stories, and I grew my knowledge of industry.

What do you do in your current role?

I largely work to translate federal policy and regulations to our business units as it pertains to federal procurement and workforce policy. I work hand-in-hand with our lobbyist to understand legislation and help to identify opportunities and challenges to inform and shape our operations and business strategies.

What’s the biggest challenge?

I think my biggest hurdles have been in breaking away from regimented systems and processes typical of being in the military—in an environment that embraces innovation, you are expected to challenge the way things are done and offer recommendations for changes and improvements.

What do you wish someone had told you before you left the military?

You are not alone, and with 200,000+ service members transitioning every year, you have a VERY large network to draw on.  

What’s one common mistake veterans should avoid during the transition

Give yourself grace and time to adapt.  

What do you do to relax or recharge?

As a mom, I love to do things with my kids, including watching their sports games, participating in scouting activities, or just doing a family movie or game nights. However, I also like to read and watch “chick flicks” on TV.

Read this full article and more in the August 2025 Issue of G.I. Jobs magazine.