Orlando’s journey to USAA was guided by a shared commitment to service. After a career as a military civilian supporting the Department of Defense mission, he found a natural next chapter in USAA’s dedication to serving the military community and their families. Today, Orlando brings that same mission-first mindset to his work in cyber, where purpose, growth, and teamwork go hand in hand.
Orlando was drawn to USAA's mission to serve the military community. After a career as a military civilian supporting the Department of Defense, USAA felt like a natural next step. He found USAA’s values closely aligned with his own, creating a strong sense of purpose and pride in his work.
In a fast-paced cyber environment, Orlando stays connected through a shared commitment to learning and growth. His team encourages ongoing education and certifications in cyber risk, supported by USAA benefits like Advantage and the Guild platform, which help employees plan and fund their development so they can continue to grow together.
Orlando leads by example, never asking his team to do something he wouldn’t do himself. Shaped by his military civilian experience, this approach builds trust, encourages open communication, and helps teams solve challenges quickly and effectively.
For military civilians considering a cyber career, Orlando encourages exploring USAA. The mission-first culture offers a meaningful way to stay connected to the military community while continuing to serve and make a lasting impact.
Q: What leadership skill or mindset from your military civilian experience do you still use every day?
A: The leadership's mindset I carry forward is leading from the front. I never ask my team to do something I wouldn't do or haven't done myself. This builds trust and confidence and reinforces the idea that we're all in this together.
Q: How does your team help you stay connected and supported in a fast-paced cyber environment?
A: Our team stays connected through a strong focus on professional development. We encourage each other to pursue post-secondary education and certifications related to cyber risk. USAA makes this easy by offering benefits like EDvantage, which provides resources to explore education and payment options.
Q: What made you feel like you belonged at USAA after your career as a military Civilian?
A: USAA's mission of serving the military community made me feel this was the right company to continue making meaningful contributions. Their commitment to supporting military members in their personal lives aligns closely with the core values I embraced as a military civilian working to ensure the Department of Defense mission was accomplished, for example.
Q: What advice would you give to other military civilians or those with defense sector experience who are exploring cyber roles at USA?
A: I encourage any military civilian considering a career change to explore USAA first. The environment here shares a similar mission-first mindset. While you may miss the left seat, right seat experience with military members, you'll still feel connected, knowing the work you do directly supports their wellbeing.