Alan Nelson
In this episode of the Transition Drill Podcast, hear the story of Alan Nelson, a retried Navy Commander who served 25 years aboard nuclear submarines, his is a story of resilience, leadership, and transformation. Following his transition from the military, Alan faced the challenges of reintegrating into civilian life with the same determination, applying his skills in problem solving, leadership, and mentorship to new professional roles while advocating for veterans and first responders. Today, he serves as a source of inspiration for military veterans navigating life after service, demonstrating the enduring power of adaptability, purpose, and community.
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Alan’s story begins in Modesto, California, where he was raised in a modest family. Losing his father at a young age, Alan and his siblings navigated a childhood defined by a “tough love” stepfather, who struggled with business setbacks, and a hardworking nurse mother who instilled the value of perseverance, Alan quickly learned the value of determination and discipline. Alan excelled academically and athletically, showcasing a strong work ethic from his early days. His childhood was filled with sports—baseball, soccer, and basketball—taught him teamwork and leadership, skills that would later shape his military career. However, due to his family’s financial challenges, he was forced to embrace a self-sufficient mindset, taking on part-time jobs like delivering newspapers and bussing tables to support himself.
Alan’s journey into the Navy was unconventional yet reflective of his tenacious spirit. A natural at math and science, his interest in engineering blossomed during high school. It was further nurtured by mentorship from a school counselor who encouraged him to explore opportunities like the military (actually, the Military academies). After a period of self-discovery post-high school, including working to support himself and attending community college, Alan decided to enlist in the Navy. Alan found himself drawn to the Navy’s nuclear program, intrigued by the challenge. His decision marked the beginning of a transformative chapter, blending discipline, education, and service to his country.
Alan’s military journey was nothing short of extraordinary, characterized by a relentless pursuit of excellence. During his first enlistment he got the opportunity to transition over to the officer community and ultimately rose to the rank of Commander. His career was defined by his service aboard nuclear submarines, some of the most complex and strategically critical vessels in the military arsenal.
Alan quickly distinguished himself in the demanding environment of submarine service. Serving aboard a nuclear submarine required precision, teamwork, and the ability to stay calm under pressure—qualities that Alan embodied fully. The challenges of working in confined quarters with a crew demanded strong interpersonal skills and adaptability, attributes he honed throughout his naval career.
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Over the years, Alan played key roles in various missions, each requiring meticulous planning and execution. From safeguarding national security interests to executing covert operations, his work exemplified the high stakes and complexity of military service. These experiences not only reinforced his technical acumen but also shaped his leadership style, emphasizing empathy, decisiveness, and a focus on mission success. His path led him from Boomers to Fast-Attack submarines, culminating in him being the Executive Officer (XO) of the USS Hampton.
His time in the Navy was also marked by a commitment to mentoring and developing junior officers. As a leader, Alan recognized the importance of fostering a culture of mutual respect and continuous learning. He often shared his own experiences to inspire and prepare the next generation of sailors for the unique challenges of submarine service. His ability to motivate and guide others cemented his reputation as a trusted and effective leader. By the time he left the military, Alan had not only achieved remarkable professional milestones but also left an indelible mark on those he served with.
Alan Nelson’s transition from the Navy was a bit more of rough seas. Leaving behind the structured environment of a nuclear submarine, Alan faced the challenges that many veterans encounter when reentering civilian life. The shift required him to redefine his purpose and adapt his extensive skills to new professional and personal contexts. He recognized the unique challenges veterans face, such as navigating a job market unfamiliar with military accomplishments or adjusting to a less hierarchical work environment. These experiences ignited his passion for helping others make successful transitions, a mission that has guided much of his work since. Today, Alan, problem-solving, and leadership acumen led him to excel in his role as a project manager.
Beyond his technical roles, Alan has also become a staunch advocate for veterans and first responders. Through public speaking and community involvement, he shares insights from his own journey to inspire and guide others. His dedication to supporting veterans in their military transition extends to mentoring programs and initiatives aimed at equipping former service members with the tools they need to succeed in civilian life. Alan’s, a life-long “saver,” has started his own financial advising business, Measured Money Maneuvers. Again, with the intention of helping veterans and first responders address their financial matters in a more personal manner.
The Transition Drill Podcast is the best podcast for military veterans, police officers, firefighters, and first responders preparing for veteran transition and life after service. Helping you plan and implement strategies to prepare for your transition into civilian life. If this episode resonated with you, don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast for more compelling stories of resilience, leadership, and transformation from veterans and first responders. Share Dave’s journey with someone who could benefit from his wisdom—whether they’re preparing for life after service, seeking guidance during a career shift, or simply looking for motivation to tackle their next challenge. Together, we can empower others to navigate transitions with confidence and embrace their new beginnings.
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