Co-hosts Jan Rutherford and Jim Vaselopulos interview
Shawn Trisler, Senior Principal Operations Analyst at General
Dynamics Information Technologies. Shawn retired from the Navy
after 27 years, and was commissioned as an Operations Limited Duty
Officer. Shawn now
works on ballistic air and missile defense, keeping our Navy safe.
In this engaging and fun conversation, Shawn and Jan share jabs on
“Army versus Navy,” and reminisces with Jim on stories of his
growth from Enlisted Sailor to Navy Mustang. Shawn speaks about his
service, cherished traditions, earning trust, and principles of
leadership and success.
Listen in to learn what it takes to rise to the top
in any worthwhile endeavor in life.
Key Takeaways
[5:25] Shawn shares his journey to becoming a Navy
Mustang, a tradition with a proud heritage.
[9:15] Shawn recalls that 30 years ago in the
wardroom, 45 out of 50 officers were Academy graduates. Today, the
majority have an enlisted background.
[13:34] Mustang leadership brings to a company the
ability to communicate across multiple levels of staff and
leadership, technical knowledge, empathy with team employees,
understanding of the goal, and buy-in.
[24:35] Shawn suggests leaders should know the value
of employees and their capabilities, and should hold them to the
same standard as themselves.
[26:03] Jim mentions the book Extreme
Ownership, which explains the importance of managing up the
chain of command as well as managing down.
[28:06] You have to be able to serve all types of
bosses. If you disagree with them, when the time is right, approach
them with honest valid concerns and insight for a better way.
[31:35] Jim encourages all leaders to check out
ProjectRelo.org for information on a program teaming skilled
veterans with businesses.
[36:29] A fight in a bar carries consequences on the
ship, but pledging to do better, and living up to the pledge, also
carries weight.
[38:40] Mentors leave a lasting impression on you for
the rest of your life.
Books Mentioned on the Show
Extreme Ownership: How U.S. Navy SEALs Lead and Win, by
Jocko Willink and Leif Babin
Bio
Shawn Trisler joined the Navy as an Enlisted Sailor,
and applied himself to rise to the top by doing his best at all
times. Shawn was field commissioned as an Operations Limited Duty
Officer after a commendation for outstanding performance. Shawn has
a rare Tactical Action Officer qualification. He retired from the
Navy after 27 years of active service. Shawn now works on ballistic
air and missile defense at General Dynamics, keeping our Navy safe.
In addition to his work at General Dynamics, he participates in
missions for Project RELO, helping veterans find placement with
fitting corporations.
Website: Projectrelo.org