Name:
Alex Hayden
Job title:
Engineer IV – Undersea Systems Development
Date hired:
July 6, 2022
Hometown:
Brentwood, NY
Education:
Boston College (2015) – B.A. Political Science, B.A. Islamic Studies
US Naval War College (2022) – M.A. Defense and Strategic Studies
How I came to be an MRC employee:
After 7 years as a submarine officer, I was ready to transition to a career where I could make a difference, feel a similar sense of duty, and still get to see my family at the end of the day. The defense industry was a no brainer to me, and a couple of MRC employees I knew from my time in uniform recommended I check the company out. I was immediately impressed by the trust MRC was willing to place in me, and it was clear I could begin my new career on the right path.
What I like best about working at MRC:
The sense of purpose I derive from my work, the ability to work on extremely interesting (and constantly evolving) matters, the multiple growth opportunities afforded, and the flexibility I am able to maintain between my work and home lives.
How my work contributes to the overall mission of the Navy:
The efforts I am a part of at Code 85 are essential to the next generation of deployable submarine technologies, whether they be new undersea vehicles or advanced payloads and sensors. I am particularly involved in the concept of operations development associated with these new technologies. In that sense, I continuously leverage my prior submarine experience to ensure a project’s technical requirements are properly synchronized with tactical and operational employment realities.
Pivotal career moments/experiences:
Receiving my submarine warfare qualifications and gaining the trust of my first Commanding Officer epitomized the value of becoming proficient at my craft, to the extent that I was then entrusted with the operational success of a national asset on a day-to-day basis. Equally critical was successfully finding a community of professionals in the civilian world with the same values I hold, and to be able to work with them every day.
Hobbies/Personal interests:
Cooking (especially traditional French and Mexican), Skiing, Golf, the Mets and Patriots, and family hikes
Career advice:
For transitioning veterans, find something that is going to continue to challenge you every day because deriving the same sense of purpose that the military offered will be tough. Seeking a mentor or sponsor to guide your career growth is essential, and you shouldn’t quickly pass up the personal and professional opportunities they present you. And lastly, don’t be afraid to “cold call”, knock on doors, or grow your network; your skill set is extremely valuable and you’ll be surprised how many people are willing to help if you ask.