MEPS Podcast EP. 1 | Hugo Escobar: From Enlisted to Officer & Building a Post-Military Career
Life After Service: Insights from a 21-Year Air Force Veteran
An Interview with Hugo Escobar
The transition from military to civilian life is a journey every service member eventually faces. In this insightful episode of the Military Experiences and Personal Stories podcast, we sat down with Hugo Escobar, a 21-year Air Force veteran who shared his remarkable journey and valuable lessons learned along the way.
From Civilian Life to Military Service
Before joining the Air Force, Hugo was a full-time college student working in Los Angeles, earning $12.50 per hour with medical benefits. At age 23, feeling unfulfilled and having been dismissed from college, he made the life-changing decision to enlist in the Air Force.
From Civilian Life to Military Service
Hugo's military journey is a testament to the opportunities for growth within the Air Force: • Started as a firefighter for four years
• Retrained into personnel, serving for 16.5 years
• Commissioned as an officer one day before his 31st birthday
• Served both active duty and reserves, totaling 21.5 years
Key Lessons from Military Service
1. Keep Your Options Open
Hugo initially planned to serve just four years but discovered the Air Force offered a fulfilling career path. He advises against openly discussing plans to separate, as it may limit opportunities for TDYs and career advancement.
2. Build a Strong Network
"Community is everything," Hugo emphasizes. Throughout his career, he surrounded himself with mentors and colleagues who provided valuable guidance and support. This network proved invaluable both during service and in civilian life.
3. Focus on Personal Growth
The Air Force provided Hugo with numerous opportunities for education and professional development. He credits the military for teaching him crucial life skills, particularly resilience and self-care.
Transitioning to Civilian Life
After his military service, Hugo successfully transitioned to civil service, working at the Airman and Family Readiness Center. His current role as an organizational coordinator focuses on diversity, inclusion, and human relations—a perfect fit for his passion for helping people.
Advice for Future and Current Service Members
For Those Considering Joining:
• The Air Force offers excellent training and educational opportunities
• Take advantage of travel and cultural experiences
• Embrace the structure and discipline as tools for personal growth
For Current Service Members:
• Enjoy each moment—time passes quickly
• Maintain curiosity and ask questions about opportunities
• Perform well in your current role to open doors for future opportunities
• Know your strengths and weaknesses
For Those Transitioning Out:
• Develop both Plan A and Plan B
• Network extensively, even across geographical boundaries
• Focus on both hard and soft skills
• Practice interviewing skills
• Research potential employers thoroughly
The Power of Preparation
Hugo emphasizes the importance of interview preparation and self-awareness:
• Know your strengths and weaknesses
• Research potential employers
• Practice interviewing skills
• Be concise in your responses
• Be honest when you don't know something
• Prepare for unexpected questions
Final Thoughts
The military experience, whether four years or twenty-plus, provides valuable skills and opportunities that can translate into successful civilian careers. The key is to make the most of every opportunity, build strong networks, and prepare thoroughly for the transition.
Hugo's journey from a college dropout to a successful military career and beyond demonstrates that the Air Force can be more than just a stepping stone—it can be a foundation for lifelong personal and professional growth.
Remember: Whether you're just starting your military journey or preparing for civilian life, success comes from being proactive, maintaining a growth mindset, and leveraging the opportunities and relationships you build along the way.
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Remember: Whether you're just starting your military journey or preparing for civilian life, success comes from being proactive, maintaining a growth mindset, and leveraging the opportunities and relationships you build along the way.