For William Johnson, service has always been about discipline, focus and purpose. His time in the U.S. Army shaped the way he leads, solves problems, and connects with others. That foundation continues to influence his life today.
Military Background
William served four years in the U.S. Army, achieving the rank of E4 Specialist. During his time in service, he was stationed in Germany and deployed to Kosovo and Serbia.
When reflecting on his time in service, William says he’s most proud of “serving my country and providing protection for people in foreign countries that couldn’t protect themselves.”
His dedication and performance earned multiple awards, including an Army Commendation Medal, five Army Achievement Medals, the Germany Schutzenschnur, the European March of Memory and Friendship Medal, Expert Marksman Badge to name a few, among other numerous unit awards.
Beyond the commendations, William says his biggest takeaway was learning patience and teamwork. “I’ve learned the importance of patience, especially the ‘hurry up and wait’ mindset,” he explains. “My most valuable experience was connecting with people from all over the U.S., each bringing unique backgrounds and perspectives and working together to accomplish goals we once thought were out of reach.”
From Service to Construction
After completing his service, William received his bachelor’s degree in Occupation Safety & Health and transitioned into the construction industry, where the mission-driven environment and emphasis on teamwork felt familiar.
“My military experience helps me stay organized and focused on the mission at hand,” he shares. “I tend to break down complex issues or tasks into smaller manageable missions. This approach creates clear, achievable goals that my team and I can confidently accomplish.”
Bringing Military Values to the Job
The skills and lessons William learned in the Army continue to guide how he approaches leadership and collaboration today. He believes veterans bring a special kind of adaptability, focus, and determination to any team.
“Veterans are trained to perform under challenging conditions, extreme stress, and constantly changing environments,” he says. “While our industry can be demanding, it can also offer a dynamic and evolving landscape. I believe this makes it a great fit for many veterans seeking meaningful opportunities.”
William’s story is a reminder that the lessons learned through military service extend far beyond active duty, shaping how we lead, connect, and serve in every chapter that follows.
This Veterans Day we salute William and all who have served for their courage, sacrifice, and the values they continue to bring our industry and the communities we proudly serve.
