“3M is an innovative and growing company that provides service members and veterans an opportunity to apply the skills they acquired through their military service into a position within 3M,” says Rebecca. “3M also offers four weeks of Military Leave, along with a great benefits package, which is huge for service members trying to continue their military service while working at 3M.  This shows 3M’s continued support to their service members and military families.”

Being new to 3M and back in the civilian work world, Rebecca advises other veterans to talk about their service. “Let others know you have served your country and what that experience has given you both personally and professionally.”

At 3M, we are always looking for employees who exhibit innovative thinking, strong leadership and teamwork skills. And we recognize that military veterans and active service members have these qualities, bringing enormous value to our organization. Here’s what three veterans had to share about their careers at 3M, advice for veterans entering civilian life and what they’re setting out to achieve in their future.

Meet Nathan Flint, a former Lightwheel Mechanic and Peacekeeper who was stationed out of Fort Polk, Wis. and deployed to Bosnia, Germany and Iraq before receiving a medical discharge in 2004. 

In 2011, Nathan started his career at 3M as a contractor, and was officially hired on full-time in 2014. “I have a disability with the VA and when I was working here the first time, management was more supportive than any place I’ve ever been,” shares Nathan. “When I got back, I asked to get a service dog, and the support from my management team and 3M was outstanding - now I have a service dog.”

“Joining the workforce after the military is a lot like joining the military for the first time. Just remember you are well-trained for this. Work hard and understand that you can be successful, and you’ll be fine.”

For Nathan, the hard work continues and he’s optimistic about his future at 3M. “I want to continue to find ways to provide value to and be a good representative of 3M. I hope five years from now, I’m still here enjoying my job and having fun."

Meet Rebecca Trygstad, an active member of the South Dakota National Guard for almost 22 years. Prior to starting at 3M earlier this year as a Training Supervisor at the 3M Brookings plant in South Dakota, she took on many roles in the National Guard, ranging from an enlisted Truck Driver to Company Commander, along with working fulltime for the South Dakota National Guard as a Training Officer and Administrative Officer.  She has also participated in two overseas training missions in Suriname and the Dominican Republic.

“3M is an innovative and growing company that provides service members and veterans an opportunity to apply the skills they acquired through their military service into a position within 3M,” says Rebecca. “3M also offers four weeks of Military Leave, along with a great benefits package, which is huge for service members trying to continue their military service while working at 3M.  This shows 3M’s continued support to their service members and military families.”

Being new to 3M and back in the civilian work world, Rebecca advises other veterans to talk about their service. “Let others know you have served your country and what that experience has given you both personally and professionally.”

Meet Casey Stoeberl who served in the Marine Corps Infantry and was deployed to Iraq before coming to 3M two years ago. Today, he is an Operator for the Abrasives division. “I have a degree in management and I would like to continue to apply for roles where I can gain more leadership skills,” shares Casey. “The overall atmosphere is very friendly and energized. I’ve worked many places and this is the one place I’ve felt at home. There are just great people here and an emphasis on keeping employees safe and happy from day-to-day. If you are looking for a career, not just a job, 3M is a wonderful place to be.”

When it comes to advice for his fellow veterans entering the workforce, Casey encourages them to dive right in and be proactive, but also look for other veterans. “Seek out other veterans that have made the transition and ask their advice. Being a part of a community that understands what you’ve been through really helps.” 

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