Mike Nachshen

Mike’s book recommendations for transitioning service members

From Scary to Successful: A Veteran’s Journey into Civilian Life

When Air Force Major Mike Nachshen discovered his career field was slated for massive cuts, he had to make an unexpected and daunting transition out of military service far sooner than planned. “It was terrifying to think about how I’d get a job and pay the bills,” he recalls. Like many servicemembers, the uncertainty he faced was both “scary and overwhelming.” The Air Force had always guided his path, but now difficult questions flooded his mind.

“Where would I live? What would I wear? It was a lot to process.”

The Power of Networking

While scared, Mike and his wife felt it was the right move, and he began earnestly networking to chart his course. He found networking was a skill he’d never formally learned but knew could open doors. Mike focused on having purposeful conversations where both parties benefit. “You’re really looking for three things – advice, information, or a referral,” he explains. He discovered invaluable perspectives on civilian careers and life by boldly asking questions.

Seeking Help to Cope

Mike coped through obsessive workouts but wishes he’d felt comfortable seeking mental health support, which had more stigma at the time. He advises veterans today to get help as needed because “it’s a sign of strength, not weakness.”

Opening Doors

This networking paid off when a well-connected veteran mentor made a pivotal introduction to an executive at Raytheon. “It’s as much about you interviewing them as them interviewing you,” Mike believes. “If they don’t treat you well as a candidate, it shows how things will be long-term.” He heeded warning signs with certain companies. After a different firm invited him to meet the team at a restaurant but didn’t even buy him a drink while everyone else enjoyed a meal, he passed hard. “Could have been my coworkers and they can’t even pay $1.29 for my Diet Coke?” Mike trusted his Spidey-senses.

Exploring Options

Beyond advice that leads to jobs, Mike is grateful for all the generosity he has encountered. The knowledge others shared let him explore industries to find the right fit back in defense work. “It takes a village, and I had great kindness from people that helped me.” He believes in paying that guidance forward. Years later, when he had a question about someone he briefly advised when she was a college student, she eagerly helped despite being on maternity leave.

Leveraging Lessons as a Leader

Ultimately, Mike spent over 15 years rising to executive roles at Raytheon. When a consolidation and reorganization hit in 2023, he again leveraged his network to evaluate a pivotal next step carefully. Within a weekend, he and his wife decided to take a severance package and launch his own consultancy, Fortis Strategic Communications, LLC. “It’s a wonderful opportunity to help clients in ways I really enjoy,” he says.

Advice for the Future

Mike credits smart relationship-building, self-awareness, and constant learning for his success. For those facing scary transitions now, he advises humility, strategic planning of next steps, and trust in yourself – skills well-honed throughout military service. “It’s okay not to have all the answers as long as you start asking the right questions.”