RPM Veterans Share the Lessons That Shape Their Lives Today

Military service leaves a lasting impact. This Veterans Day, 20 RPM Living veterans share how their time in uniform continues to shape the way they lead, work, and show up for others.

Michael Slaton, Director of Facilities and Capital Improvements
U.S. Coast Guard

For Michael, being “highly motivated and truly dedicated” grew from a bootcamp expectation into a lifelong philosophy. Serving aboard the USCGC Gallatin taught him that dedication means showing up for your shipmates and understanding that everyone has a part in the mission.

“The uniform may change, but the commitment to the people beside you and the mission ahead never does.”

Tino Amaya, Corporate Project Manager
U.S. Army

Tino continues to turn to the Army Values – Loyalty, Duty, Respect, Selfless Service, Honor, Integrity, and Personal Courage – when navigating challenges and making decisions. Whether he’s working through a difficult issue or supporting someone else, those values help him decide what to do next.

“You can’t always control what happens, but you can control how you respond.”

Nelly Lopez, Community Manager
U.S. Air Force

Integrity first, service before self, and excellence in all we do. For Nelly, the Air Force Core Values are a lifelong commitment reflected in her actions, decisions, and relationships.

“Regardless of the circumstances or challenges I may face, I will continue to lead with integrity, serve with purpose, and strive for excellence in everything I do.”

Nija Holmes, Assistant Community Manager
U.S. Army

Military service taught Nija how to prioritize responsibilities and work efficiently under pressure. It also reinforced the importance of clear communication and supporting the people around her.

“Success isn’t just about individual effort, but about working together, communicating effectively, and supporting one another to accomplish a common goal.”

Jared Huntington, Maintenance Manager
Army National Guard

After 12 years of service and two tours in Iraq, Jared carries the importance of readiness into his daily life.

“Staying prepared, organized and adaptable shapes my life and how I conduct myself at work.”

Sonja Nieves, Community Manager
U.S. Navy Reserve

While working in a military hospital in Germany, Sonja’s experience caring for wounded service members inspired her to enlist. She served eight years as a Navy corpsman assigned to a Marine unit, where she developed discipline, confidence, courage, and a strong work ethic. Today, she draws on those lessons as she mentors her team and helps develop future leaders.

“Watching members of my team discover their strengths and succeed is one of the greatest rewards of my career.”

Robyn Andrews, Senior Regional HR Manager
U.S. Navy

During 22 years in the Navy, Robyn learned the importance of discipline, resilience, and showing up through difficult circumstances. Those experiences guide her leadership at work, in ministry, and in her personal life. For Robyn, that means leading with integrity, extending grace, and keeping the people she serves at the center of her decisions.

“Leadership is not about rank or position; it’s about responsibility, accountability, and service to others.”

Dee Shaw Knox, Community Manager
U.S. Army

Dee joined the Army after becoming a mother. Her service instilled discipline, responsibility, teamwork, and gratitude. Serving after 9/11 deepened her appreciation for freedom, sacrifice, and standing together.

“The Army didn’t just teach me how to serve my country; it taught me how to lead, overcome challenges, and become a better version of myself.”

Merry Fitzgerald, Assistant Community Manager
U.S. Army

For Merry, accountability means showing up prepared and on time, owning her actions, and doing the right thing even when no one is watching. The Army taught her to follow through because others are counting on her.

“Accountability is about owning your responsibilities, standing by your commitments, and knowing that others are counting on you.”

Josh Sullivan, Senior Project Manager
U.S. Marine Corps

Readiness is the lesson Josh still carries from the Marines. He makes a point of understanding the task ahead and asking questions when he needs clarity.

“Always do your best to be prepared and understand the task at hand. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.”

Jonatan Rendon, Assistant Maintenance Manager
U.S. Army

Integrity is the Army value Jonatan returns to every day. He remembers serving alongside people he could trust and brings that same standard to his work today by doing his best for the community and leading by example.

Andres Alvarez, Maintenance Technician
U.S. Marine Corps

After two tours with the Marine Corps, Andres learned to take the long view. When a decision has lasting consequences, he gives himself time to weigh the possible outcomes and choose what will serve him best in the future.

“One of the biggest lessons I learned during my time in the Marine Corps and through two tours is that life is a marathon, not a race.”

Diamond Croney, Assistant Community Manager
U.S. Navy

The Navy taught Diamond to keep her composure when life gets difficult. She still draws on that lesson by taking challenges one day at a time.

“One lesson I learned during my military service is to always keep your head up, stay strong, and never lose your bearing, no matter what life throws your way.”

Herman Jones Jr., Maintenance Manager
U.S. Army

As an Army tank system mechanic, Herman diagnosed and repaired mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic systems on combat vehicles. That work taught him to spot small issues before they become major problems. He brings the same attention to detail to maintaining building systems, supporting residents, and leading his team at RPM.

“The military taught me that success often depends on identifying and addressing small issues before they become major problems.”

Kyle Askew, Project Manager
U.S. Navy and U.S. Air Force Reserve

Kyle’s time in service taught him how much preparation matters. He still approaches challenges by putting in the work and learning what he needs to know before taking them on.

“I believe that if you work hard and arm yourself with knowledge, there isn’t anything you can’t achieve.”

Ashley Crager, Regional Manager
U.S. Army Reserve

Ashley learned that leaders earn trust through their actions. At RPM, she puts that into practice by setting high standards, taking ownership of challenges, and working alongside her team when they need support.

“Leaders who demonstrate accountability, professionalism, and a strong work ethic inspire their teams to do the same.”

Jake Palos, Maintenance Manager
U.S. Army

Jake enlisted at 17, learning how much a team can accomplish when every person is appreciated, respected, and properly trained. He carries that lesson into his work at RPM, where teamwork is central to leading a maintenance team.

“One of the most important lessons that I carry with me from my time in service is the importance of being part of a team.”

Julius Gordon Jr., Maintenance Manager
U.S. Army

Julius carries a deep appreciation for recognizing others from his time in the Army. Now a maintenance manager at RPM, he values acknowledging the service and contributions of those around him.

“One lesson I carry with me is the importance of recognizing others and appreciating their service.”

Todd Christian, Maintenance Manager
U.S. Navy Seabees

Todd served on active duty from 1979 to 2002, spending much of his career in senior leadership. One lesson he learned early continues to guide him today. Leading means putting people first and understanding that managing tasks and caring for a team require different skills.

“It’s not about you! Leaders lead people. Managers lead things.”

Kris Servidio, Regional Vice President of Facilities and Construction Management
U.S. Navy

The Navy’s core values of Honor, Courage, and Commitment continue to shape how Kris leads and supports his teams. His service taught him the importance of accountability and working together toward a common goal, providing a foundation he carries into his personal life and career.

“Those same values continue to guide my leadership style, the decisions I make, and how I support and develop my teams today.”

Thank you to our RPM veterans and to all who have served. We’re grateful for your service and for the stories you’ve shared with us.

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