By Chris Doneski, Director of Army Programs, BAE Systems

The transition from military service to civilian life can be both challenging and rewarding. For veterans, the military instills in us a deep sense of purpose, discipline, and camaraderie, creating a longing to continue serving after leaving the forces. At BAE Systems, I found the opportunity to live by a new mission – protecting those who protect us. The company’s commitment to supporting our armed forces resonates deeply with my values and experiences.

BAE Systems' mission, We Protect Those Who Protect Us®, captures the essence of our work. It’s not just a catch phrase; it underscores our profound sense of responsibility. Personally, I operate out of our facility in Austin, Texas, where our team focuses on developing advanced capabilities for aircraft, helicopters, and ground combat vehicles. Each project, each component we produce, is designed with the utmost care and precision, ensuring our service members have the best tools to carry out their missions safely and effectively.

The work we do goes beyond the technical aspects. It is a continuation of military service. Many of my colleagues are veterans who understand the stakes of our work. We bring our unique perspectives and experiences, allowing us to connect with the mission on a personal level. When we hear about the successful deployment of a vehicle we helped improve or a system that has saved lives, it reinforces our sense of purpose and pride.

BAE Systems is committed to fostering a robust defense and veteran ecosystem internally and in our local community. As part of the Capital Factory’s Innovation Council, our team actively engages with startups and innovators, helping to cultivate new technologies that enhance our national security. By collaborating with U.S. Army Applications Lab, the U.S. Air Force’s innovation arm AFWERX, the Defense Innovation Unit, and emerging businesses, we ensure that we remain at the forefront of technological advancements, making our armed forces more effective.

I’ve seen the company recognize the importance of supporting veterans and their families first hand through organizations like the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) and the Texas Veterans Network, which provide excellent resources and networking opportunities for veterans, helping us reintegrate into civilian life, while maintaining a community that many lose when they exit the military. The company also provides opportunities for employees to support and honor the local veteran and military community through volunteerism.

“Working at BAE Systems has allowed me and other veterans to mentor younger veterans and employees who are new to the aerospace and defense industry. Sharing experiences and knowledge with others is incredibly rewarding, and it’s a way to ensure that the values of service, dedication, and teamwork continue to thrive in our workforce.”

The sense of purpose I found at BAE Systems is not limited to my own experiences. Many veterans in our community struggle with the transition to civilian life, feeling lost without a structured military environment. Companies like BAE Systems play a vital role in this transition by offering career opportunities that align with veterans’ skills and values. Our culture encourages us to carry forward a commitment to service, providing a bridge between a veteran’s past and future.

As I reflect on my continued service at BAE Systems in Austin during Military Appreciation Month, it is not just a job; it’s a mission. We are committed to safeguarding our country by developing advanced defense capabilities and supporting fellow veterans in their journeys. BAE Systems embodies the principle of protecting those who protect us, and I am proud to be part of an organization that values the contributions of veterans. Together, we continue to serve, ensuring that our sacrifices were not in vain and that the legacy of service lives on.

Chris Doneski is the Director of Army Programs at BAE Systems in Austin, Texas.

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