Ian brings over 30 years of federal and private sector experience in construction and facilities management, including 20 years as both a Surface Warfare and Civil Engineer Corps officer. While on active duty, Ian worked at Officer in Charge of Construction, Marianas, and was the Resident Officer in Charge of Construction, Marine Corps Base Hawaii. He also served as the Public Works Officer at Marine Corps Base Hawaii and then at the Washington Navy Yard, and did a Seabee tour at Amphibious Construction Battalion ONE. Before joining MBP, Ian held positions overseeing the facilities and maintenance operation of 7,000 privatized military homes throughout Hawaii, including the construction of over 2000 new homes, and served as a senior program manager leading several construction programs in the Pacific.
Why did you choose MBP?
I learned about MBP during my last tour of duty as the Public Works Officer at the Washington Navy Yard. I soon learned that the FEAD had several MBP team members supporting them, and I also realized they were the “go-to” subject matter experts within the office. As I learned more about MBP I always felt that it would be a wonderful environment to “some day” work in. Our paths separated for almost 20 years, however I kept in touch with James Peck and Brian Moore over the years and as it turns out I was in the right place at the right time to support the growing PACFED operations.
What did you find to be the most rewarding part of transiting to the workforce?
I really enjoy the professionalism of employees that that take pride in their work and have a vested interest to advance the company they work for. I also found that there is still so much opportunity out there to continue supporting the DoD even after your uniformed life comes to a close.
How has your military experience helped you in the workforce?
Learning to become a better leader is a natural outcome that most veterans appreciate from their time in the military, but how you apply your leadership attributes is the key. Whether it be leading a team to a collaborative and successful outcome, transforming an office into something new, or instilling confidence in your own leaders, are things that the military experience has bestowed upon me as well as most veterans upon their departure from military service.
What advice would you give someone getting ready to transition?
The world is your oyster at the time of transition so take the time to understand what you really want to make of yourself following transition. It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity to switch gears with no one judging! Leverage the educational opportunities offered to you to advance your current educational career field, or dabble into a new profession. Oh, and leave the acronyms behind!