At JMA, we are proud to recognize the service and ongoing contributions of our veteran employees. One such individual is Will Britton, whose journey from military service to the world of business intelligence showcases both dedication and adaptability. Will served in the Illinois Army National Guard from 2002 to 2008, where he held two Military Occupational Specialties: 13 Bravo Cannon Crewmember and 11 Bravo Infantryman. In 2005, he was deployed to Baghdad in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. During his deployment, he served as part of the Army’s security forces, conducting high-risk missions that included tier 1 personal security, convoy security, and route regulation.
After his military service, Will transitioned into the tech field and brought his skills to JMA. He first joined the company in February 2021 as a Business Intelligence Developer. Though he departed in April 2022, he returned in September 2023 as a BOBJ Developer. As a “boomerang JMAer,” Will has continued to make a strong impact, drawing from the teamwork, adaptability, and leadership skills he developed in the military. He notes that his time in uniform taught him the importance of working collaboratively within a team, relying on each member’s strengths to achieve a common goal. These values continue to shape his approach to projects and communication at JMA, where he helps coordinate efforts across departments and contributes meaningfully to organizational success.
Reflecting on his transition to civilian life, Will emphasizes the importance of mentorship. He encourages fellow veterans to seek out mentors who can bridge the gap between military service and the civilian workforce. In his experience, having someone who understands both worlds was instrumental in helping him translate his skills, gain confidence, and chart a clear professional path. He also advises veterans to be patient, proactive, and open to learning, as these qualities are key to successfully adapting to new environments.
One moment from Will’s military service that stands out in his memory occurred after the 2005 Iraqi elections. While on patrol, he observed Iraqi civilians proudly walking through the streets with their thumbs stained purple—a mark that signified they had voted. That simple visual left a profound impression on him, as it represented the tangible impact of their presence and the greater mission they were supporting.
Among the many lessons Will carries with him from his time in the military, one phrase stands above the rest: “adapt and overcome.” Repeated often during his years in uniform, the phrase became a mindset—an approach to life that values resilience, flexibility, and determination in the face of obstacles. He continues to apply that mindset daily, both professionally and personally.
When asked what initially drew him to JMA, Will mentions the nature of the projects and the company’s outstanding benefits package. What keeps him here, however, is the culture. He speaks highly of the camaraderie and collaboration among his colleagues, as well as the openness to innovation and individual contributions. At JMA, he feels valued, challenged, and empowered to grow—and that, he says, makes each workday something to look forward to.
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