After an abrupt transition from the Marine Corps, Evan Bowman faced uncertainty head-on while building a future for his family.
Growing up in New York and Maryland, Evan Bowman knew he wanted more than a familiar routine close to home. The Marine Corps was his ticket.
“I wanted to get away from where I lived because I saw that no one ever left,” he said. “I didn’t want to be stuck. I wanted a challenge that I wasn’t going to get anywhere else, and I also wanted to travel the world as much as possible.”
Bowman served as an aviation data clerk and recruiter until unexpected family circumstances changed his plans for a full military career. Faced with a sudden transition and the pressure of supporting his wife and two daughters, he had to quickly find his footing in civilian life.
What was your exit plan as you prepared to transition from the military? I didn’t have a plan being that it was sudden because of the circumstances I was in with my family. My original plan was to retire from the military in another seven years then either do sales, cybersecurity or be an analyst.
What was your biggest fear as you prepared to transition from the military? My biggest fear was not being prepared to get out. I’m happily married with two beautiful daughters, so I feared letting them down.
What turned out to be your biggest challenge? Finding employment was difficult but finding something that matched what I was getting paid was even harder. Another challenge is the sense of purpose that you no longer have once you’re on your own.
Why did you choose this career path? It was because of the interview I had with my manager. He was very charismatic and knowledgeable, but he was also very honest.
Why this industry? What appealed to you? You control your income with sales. As long as you stay ambitious, you’ll be successful.
How did you land your current job? This job was posted on ZipRecruiter.
What do you do in your current role? I am a door-to-door internet salesperson. I help everyone I can save as much money as they can for the best quality internet service!
How do your military skills and experience help you in this role? My time as a Marine recruiter helped me transition into this role.
What do you enjoy most about your job? My teammates are my favorite part of the job. They are a big help when I need info as the new guy on the team, and I’m inspired by some of the big sales numbers a few of them put up each month. It sets an example for the team and shows us that hard work pays off.
What’s the biggest challenge you face? Learning something new, but I have caught on pretty quickly.
What are your usual hours or work schedule like? My best hours are 1-6:30 p.m.
If you could go back, what do you wish someone had told you before you left the military? Just know exactly what you’re getting into and do your best at whatever it is you’re doing.
What’s one common mistake veterans should avoid during the transition? Misunderstanding what it’s like being a civilian again and the work that comes with it.
Just for Fun:
What do you do to relax or recharge? I enjoy spending time with my family, and I work out as much as I can.
Tell us something about your family. My twin brother and I are fraternal twins, and my two other brothers are identical twins. Three of us are Marines and one is having an amazing career in law enforcement.
Evan Bowman
D2D Salesman
Kinetic
Rincon, Ga.
Age: 30
Military Service:
Staff Sergeant (E-6), Marine Corps (2013-2025)
MOS: Aviation Data Clerk/Data Analyst (6046/49)
Marine Canvassing Recruiter (8411)
Education:
Data Analyst Certification
Lean Sigma Six Yellow Belt
Sales Certification