Floyd is a flight inspector at Northrop Grumman. He enlisted into the U.S. Navy in 2015 and was stationed with VFA-195 Dambusters in Atsugi, Japan working with the F/A-18E Super Hornet as an Aviation Electronics Technician. He spent three years there with the Forward Deployed Squadron attached to the USS Ronald Reagan and participated in four Western Pacific deployments. After his time in Japan, he transferred to Oceana, Virginia and joined the VFA-34 Blue Blasters. While stationed in Virginia, he helped the squadron transition from the Navy’s last active squadron with the F/A-18C Hornet to the F/A-18E Super Hornet. Floyd’s experience varies from Plane Captain to Avionics Shop Supervisor and Troubleshooters Supervisor. Floyd joined Northrop Grumman in October after transitioning from active duty.
How long have you been with Northrop Grumman? How did you hear about us?
I started my SkillBridge internship in August and was hired into the company in October. Working around aircrafts, I knew I wanted to join one of the companies that designed, tested and developed these incredible war fighters. A good friend that I met in the Navy worked at Northrop Grumman and told me about the company. Instantly, I knew this was the kind of company I needed to work for. I remember I was at NAS Fallon for Top Gun and I was browsing the company website when I got a call from my friend and she said, “Hey there’s a SkillBridge Internship opportunity getting posted today that you should apply for!” All I said after that was, “What in the heck is SkillBridge?” So, after learning about how incredible this program is, I applied that day, and the rest is history.
What is your military background? How did you military background set you up for the role you are in now?
After enlisting at the beginning of 2015, I spent just under six years with the U.S. Navy as an Aviation Electronics Technician. Working on the F/A-18E was such an experience. It allowed me to learn so much about the aircraft and gave me the opportunity to participate in more training to enhance my overall knowledge and ability to maintain the jet, as well as being a leader in high demand shops. While deployed on the aircraft carrier, you are thrown into a new world that you have to adapt to. The flight deck has to be the most fast paced, high intensity and stressful environment that I will ever endure. This taught me how to deal and workout all sorts of mission critical decisions and planning how to execute each unique situation while in that kind of environment. This translates well with NGC because what we do here is mission critical. My responsibility with the company is giving the okay that this plane, this system or this part is tested designed and developed correctly for whatever program it may be used for. Just like when I had to give the okay for a jet to launch off the front end of a ship to complete its mission.
What was your experience transitioning to Northrop Grumman as a veteran?
My transition from military to Northrop Grumman was absolutely flawless with the SkillBridge program. I started my internship with STRIKE in Melbourne, Florida. Once I had the chance to see the facility and everything that was being done, I wanted to know it all. It was nice to meet so many other people that were just as, if not more, passionate about the work being done here. Speaking to these individuals and learning about the products and the ins and outs of the workings allowed me to see and hear the passion of what this company is all about.
What do you hope to gain from your new role?
In my new role, I hope to gain as much knowledge, experience, and make good connections with everyone around me so I can further grow in my career within Northrop Grumman. With that said, I hope I can help guide future veterans into the civilian work force with a successful transition through a career at Northrop Grumman.
What advice would you give to other veterans interested in a career in Northrop Grumman?
Simply apply. From my experience, looking for jobs was stressful because you limit yourself to a singular job title. However, if you explore other options and try to connect with the right people and seeing if you would be a viable candidate for a position that may interest you, go after it. As a veteran, you have the skills and work ethic that is practically unmatched. With a company that is as veteran-friendly as Northrop Grumman is, they will work with you and they know that you would be a valuable asset to the team. Being in the military, veterans have learned to always be adaptable, and that goes with starting a new job – you will adapt, learn and achieve – so don’t cut yourself short to a singular job title. Branch out and apply.
Are you ready for your next mission? Explore our careers.
Return to Life at Northrop Grumman home page.