Meet David Cowhig, Veteran & Sr. HR Insights & Analytics Partner at Thermo Fisher Scientific

As part of our Life in Action series featuring profiles of veterans and military spouses working at Carlsbad companies, you’ll get to know the stories of those who’ve served and how they’ve found their perfect niche at a Carlsbad career after their military service. Meet David Cowhig, a Sr. HR Insights and Analytics Partner at Thermo Fisher Scientific’s Carlsbad campus.

Name: David Cowhig

Company: Thermo Fisher Scientific

Job Title: Sr. HR Insights and Analytics Partner

Where are you originally from? Boston, MA

What do you love most about working in Carlsbad? I love the water, parks, hiking trails, but most of all the people that live and work in Carlsbad are great.

How does your company support your success? My company was very supportive of ensuring I was connected with other employees as soon as I joined Thermo Fisher.  They have ERGs (Employee Resource Groups) that you can join when you start the onboarding process.  For instance, I was able to join the Military Veteran ERGs Carlsbad Chapter.  It is a great way to connect with other Thermo Fisher Veteran employees I could relate too and feeling connected is a very important component of my success.

What advice would you give a transitioning veteran (or military spouse)? Start the transition process as soon as possible! Network and connect with other veterans who have transitioned into a career you are thinking about exploring. I was very lucky to have so many veterans answer questions about how they transitioned.  It can feel overwhelming and with all of the resources available it is hard to understand which one’s are useful.  If you put the effort into your transition that you did while in service you will be just fine.  If you have any questions I would be happy to answer them or guide you to someone who could.

What advice would you give to employers who want to support our military families?  Veterans come with a huge skillset that sometimes is taken for granted while they are serving.  Public speaking, remaining calm under pressure, and working in complex environments is just a few.  While their skills might not always translate into civilian terminology on paper – you would be surprised at how fast they can learn or adapt to their new opportunity.  Take a chance on hiring or mentoring a veteran and you will not be disappointed.

When you are not working we are likely to find you…  I love the beach, playing Barbie’s or coloring with my 3 year old – Kaleesia, and anything outdoors or involving food.

Your favorite Carlsbad bite: I love all food! Most recently I enjoyed a Taste of the Himalayas in Carlsbad Village – definitely recommend trying it.