Military to Siemens Energy career

Reflecting on her Navy days that started in November 2016, Caitlin wasn't sure of her path initially. But her role in the nuclear community aboard the John C. Stennis aircraft carrier prepared her well for her current job at Siemens Energy. "It was a rigorous program, and I was proud of myself for completing it. It gave me a good foundation for what I would end up doing at this job," Caitlin shares, making a clear link between her past and present gigs.

She spent seven months deployed around the globe from Washington to Singapore, Dubai, Bahrain, Thailand, and France. “In the Navy, you work with people from all over the world, coming together on one ship. Now I'm working with millwrights, trades and other engineers. So, I feel like my past work with people from different backgrounds has set me up to be successful here,” she says, explaining how this has been a massive plus in her current job where teamwork is everything.

Caitlin Batson in Siemens Energy uniform

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It was a streamlined transition from the military into this job because it's similar in many ways.

Finding her place at Siemens Energy was smooth, thanks to the company's appreciation for military backgrounds. Caitlin emphasizes, "I was looking on LinkedIn when I noticed this position posted by a military recruiter. I liked the idea of it, so I tried my best to get the job, and here I am," she says, appreciating Siemens Energy for recognizing the value veterans bring to the table. “I didn’t think I would end up here, and I was even nervous about joining the company. But it was a streamlined transition from the military into this job because it's similar in many ways.

In her current role, Caitlin tackles maintenance work at power plants, drawing parallels to her Navy work but on a new scale. "Our turbines were much smaller on the aircraft carriers, but it's a similar concept," she notes. Beyond the technical aspects, Caitlin values the leadership and teamwork skills she gained in the Navy, which have been crucial to her success at Siemens Energy.

Her biggest brag? Being the Top Gun of her class in the EIT training for Field Service Engineers. "I didn't see it coming. Gaining hands-on experience with the turbines, especially during rotor lifts, has been mind-blowing," she excitedly shares about her recent stint at the Grand Gulf nuclear station in Mississippi.

But it wasn't all smooth sailing. Caitlin had her moments of doubt, such as overcoming imposter syndrome. Yet, she stands firm, empowered by her accomplishments and the knowledge that she belongs. "I didn't go to college, so I just have my Navy experience. It definitely weighed on my mind when I first started that I would not fit in or know what I was doing. But I've proved to myself that I do belong here and that I can succeed," she states.

For Caitlin, it's more than just a job; it's about making an impact. “It's very rewarding. When you arrive on site and the plant is running, you see how it will look when you leave. Then you take it apart, down to the ground and you get to rebuild it. Then, as you're leaving, you see the steam coming out of the stacks and you think: I did that! Seeing the process from beginning to end is a rewarding feeling. At the end of the day, we are keeping the lights on and it's cool to be a part of that. No matter what, we all need power.”

Caitlin at celebration of the EIT Class 48A

As for what's next, Caitlin is keen on continuing her growth at Siemens Energy, eager to learn and possibly rise within the company. “I think that it's unlike any other job because of the amount of travel we do and the type of work. It's not a normal 9 to 5 desk job; it's more exciting and there's always something new to learn. Everyone has such an interesting story and the connections you make could help you later.”

For veterans contemplating a similar path, Caitlin's message is encouraging and clear: "Absolutely, yes." Her experience underscores the wide range of opportunities available in the energy field, where veteran skills can lead to rewarding and impactful careers by creating the energy systems of the present and the future. “There is a very large community of veterans in the company. I’ve met so many people who have served or are currently in active reserves or inactive reserves. It’s nice because they understand how we were trained, and they can apply their knowledge to train us for field service work.

The energy field is ripe with opportunities where military skills can shine and make a real difference. Caitlin’s story is a vivid example of how a veteran's discipline, leadership, and teamwork can light up the energy sector.