Brady Spatola
Engineer
Years with MIL: 1.5
What were you doing before joining MIL?
I started at MIL in April 2018, a few months after graduating from the Penn State College of Engineering in the Fall semester of 2017. While I was a student, I held two summer internship positions at MIL, in 2015 and 2016.
Why did you decide to join MIL?
An employee initially referred me to MIL because he knew I was looking for an exciting and challenging summer internship to augment my engineering studies. Shortly after graduation, I was contacted about a full-time entry level position with MIL that was opening soon, and I joined the team as a Junior Engineer.
What are you working on now?
I’m currently supporting engineering efforts on a mobile communications vehicle for our DoD sponsor. This includes the design of the interior layout, interfaces, power solutions, and final integration of the equipment to be used on the platform. I am also supporting engineering and integration efforts for the MMP-H project. This effort includes the integration of a new broadcast system into the legacy EC-130J Commando Solo for PsyOps and MISO operations.
What are the best aspects about your current job?
The multifaceted approach to the projects that I’m supporting keeps me on my toes and provides me with many opportunities to gain experience with things that are new to me.
What is the best piece of career advice you can offer someone in your field who is either applying to or beginning a career at MIL?
The best piece of career advice I can offer is don’t get complacent and always seek opportunities to grow your experience and skill set. I recommend training through MIL’s free MILTON program and to pursue a certification that will help bolster your career goals.
Why do you enjoy working at MIL?
The managers here are so hands on. The rapport that’s been built between the management and their teams makes everyone feel welcome. They also support and encourage growth within the company and provide plenty of opportunities to do so.
What is the most challenging thing you’ve worked on at MIL?
The MMP-H integration has been the most difficult so far. There have been a lot of changes to the requirements and design late into the project that have in turn created more rigorous engineering efforts to meet those changes and overcome some roadblocks.