Stephen Rhoades is a prime example of how military experience can translate into a successful civilian career. A retired general officer, Rhoades now works at Siemens Energy as Global Leader of EHS and Security Siemens Energy, where the leadership and discipline he developed over his 30-year military career continue to serve him well.
Military Veteran Stephen Rhoades Shares His Story with ‘Military Makeover: Operation Career’
After graduating from the University of Dayton and completing ROTC, Rhoades began his military journey as a helicopter pilot. “I flew helicopters initially for about seven years,” he tells Military Makeover: Operation Career. But after a decade of active duty, he felt it was time for a change. “I didn’t want to do full-time active duty anymore,” he admits, transitioning into the reserves while simultaneously building a civilian career. This dual role, balancing military commitments and a civilian job, became his life for over 20 years until he officially stepped away from the reserves in October 2023.
Rhoades and his wife, who reside in Ohio, raised three sons during this time. Two are grown, and one is still in college. Balancing his military and civilian careers wasn’t always easy, however, the discipline and leadership skills he developed during his years of service laid the foundation for his next professional chapter.
How to Successfully Transition into Civilian Life with Siemens Energy
When Rhoades transitioned to civilian life, Siemens Energy became a crucial part of his story. The company, known for its commitment to hiring veterans, offered a new platform where Rhoades could continue to apply the leadership and technical skills honed during his time in the military. “The leadership skills I gained in the military helped me in the civilian world, and what I learned in the civilian world helped me in the military,” Rhoades explains. He emphasizes how the values instilled in him by the Army — discipline, accountability, and respect — align with Siemens Energy’s corporate culture. “When you join Siemens Energy, you realize it’s not just about keeping the lights on — it’s about energizing society.”
Siemens Energy, committed to supporting veterans like Rhoades, fosters an environment where former service members can thrive. The company actively promotes mentorship, offering veterans the tools and guidance necessary to succeed. Rhoades, for example, continues to play an active role in mentoring others. “We have veteran groups across the company,” he says. “These networks allow veterans to connect, share experiences, and learn from one another.”
Rhoades’ career reflects Siemens Energy’s broader mission: empowering veterans to apply their military experience in impactful ways. The company is not just offering jobs, it’s offering careers where veterans can continue to grow and lead. “Siemens Energy is a place where you can continue to serve in a different capacity,” Rhoades shares. The sense of purpose he found in the Army continues in his work with Siemens Energy, where he now plays a role in energizing the future.
During our conversation, Rhoades also took the opportunity to spotlight two of his colleagues, fellow veterans whose transitions from military life to Siemens Energy have been equally impressive. One of them, a former Air Force intelligence officer, now works in corporate security for the company. This individual uses the security and analytical skills developed in the military to protect Siemens Energy’s infrastructure and data. Another colleague, a former senior aircraft mechanic, transitioned into a role overseeing environmental health and safety. “These veterans have applied their military skills in new, innovative ways at Siemens Energy,” Rhoades notes with pride.
For Rhoades and countless other veterans at Siemens Energy, the transition from military to civilian life has been a seamless one. The company’s dedication to helping veterans succeed has provided a platform for these individuals to shine all while enriching Siemens Energy with a workforce defined by leadership and a commitment to excellence. Rhoades put it simply: “There is a place for you here. Not just to work, but to develop, learn, and lead.”