Veterans in Tech: Insights from Dominic Tria

Dominic Tria is an accomplished Datacenter Operations Manager whose career integrates technology expertise, military service, and a dedication to environmental sustainability. Born in 1993 in Roswell, Georgia, Dominic cultivated a passion for technology early in life, leading him to earn a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Norwich University. This academic foundation paved the way for a dynamic career characterized by innovation and leadership.

Following his graduation, Dominic enlisted in the U.S. Navy, where he served with distinction in several critical roles over multiple years. His military service was instrumental in honing his skills in managing complex IT infrastructures and communications systems. As a Communications/Cyber Officer and later as a Datacenter Manager, he oversaw the installation, maintenance, and operation of essential IT networks across various global deployments. His responsibilities included leading multi-service teams to ensure high system uptime and implementing innovative solutions to maintain secure and efficient data center operations.

Dominic’s time in the Navy not only enhanced his technical acumen but also instilled in him the values of discipline, strategic planning, and teamwork. These experiences have been pivotal in shaping his leadership style and professional approach. His achievements in the military include executing large-scale projects and integrating sustainable practices to reduce the environmental impact of data centers.

Currently based in Georgia, Dominic continues to apply his military-honed skills to advance sustainable data center management and technological innovation. He is deeply committed to environmental conservation, actively incorporating green technologies into his work to promote sustainability within the IT industry. Dominic’s unique blend of technical expertise, military discipline, and commitment to environmental stewardship defines his professional journey and positions him as a respected figure in both the technology and environmental sectors.

Q&A with Dominic Tria on the Impact of Military Experience on Career and Mindset 

How did your military experience shape your career path in data center operations? 

My time in the U.S. Navy was instrumental in shaping my career. Serving as a Communications/Cyber Officer and later as a Datacenter Manager provided me with hands-on experience managing complex IT infrastructures under high-pressure situations. The military environment taught me the importance of discipline, attention to detail, and the ability to adapt quickly to changing circumstances—all of which are critical skills in data center operations. This experience laid a strong foundation for my transition into the civilian tech industry, where I could apply these skills to drive efficiency and innovation.

What aspects of your military service have most significantly influenced your professional mindset? 

The military instilled in me a mindset of resilience and teamwork. In the Navy, mission success depends on the collective effort of the team, and there’s a strong emphasis on leadership at all levels. This taught me to value collaboration and to lead by example. Additionally, the high-stakes environment required me to remain calm under pressure and make informed decisions swiftly. These qualities have been invaluable in the fast-paced world of data center management, where unexpected challenges can arise at any moment.

How do you believe your military background benefits employers in the tech industry? 

Employers gain a lot from hiring veterans because of the unique skill set we bring. Military personnel are trained to be disciplined, reliable, and mission-focused. We’re accustomed to working in diverse teams and adapting to new technologies and methodologies quickly. In the tech industry, where innovation and rapid problem-solving are essential, these traits can significantly enhance a team’s performance. Moreover, veterans often have experience with cutting-edge technology and cybersecurity practices from their military roles, which can be directly applicable to civilian tech positions.

Can you share an example of how your military training has helped you overcome a professional challenge? 

Certainly. During a critical phase of a data migration project, our team faced an unexpected system failure that threatened to cause significant downtime. Drawing on my military training, I was able to remain calm and lead the team through a rapid troubleshooting process. We employed a structured approach to identify the issue, delegated tasks efficiently, and communicated effectively throughout the crisis. As a result, we minimized downtime and maintained service continuity for our clients. This situation mirrored the high-pressure scenarios I encountered in the Navy, and the skills I developed there were directly applicable.

What advice would you give employers considering hiring veterans for technical roles? 

I would encourage employers to recognize the transferable skills that veterans bring to the table. While military experience may not always align perfectly with specific job descriptions, the underlying competencies—such as leadership, adaptability, and a strong work ethic—are highly valuable. Employers should consider providing training programs to help veterans transition their skills to civilian roles. By doing so, they not only gain dedicated and skilled employees but also contribute to the successful reintegration of veterans into the workforce.

How do you continue to apply the values learned in the military to your current work and life? 

The core values of honor, courage, and commitment continue to guide me both professionally and personally. In my work, I strive to uphold the highest standards of integrity and excellence, just as I did in the Navy. I also remain committed to continuous learning and improvement, recognizing that technology and best practices are always evolving. In my personal life, I value community service and mentorship, aiming to give back and support others, much like the camaraderie and support system found in the military.

In what ways do you think veterans can contribute to innovation in the tech industry? 

Veterans often have experience with advanced technologies and problem-solving in challenging environments, which can foster innovative thinking. We’re trained to approach problems strategically and to consider both immediate and long-term implications of our actions. This perspective can lead to creative solutions that others might overlook. Additionally, the diversity of experiences within the military community can bring fresh ideas and perspectives to tech teams, driving innovation and progress within the industry.

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