Veteran Harber joined Army to continue a 200-year-old family tradition

In honor of Veterans Day, we sat down with Gary Harber who served in the Army for seven years. The Distribution Manager at Milgard Windows and Doors, Harber talked about his family legacy, transitioning into civilian life, and how his leadership training in the military prepared him for his job at Milgard.

Name: Gary Harber

Facility: Tacoma Support Center

Position: Distribution Manager

Home: Puyallup, Wash.

What branch of the military did you serve in?

Army

What was your highest rank?

​Captain

What were some of the jobs you held within the military?

Senior Instructor, Company Commander, Operations Officer, Company Executive Officer, and Platoon Leader

What made you want to join the military?

Every generation of my family has been serving in the military since the Revolutionary War.

What years did you serve?

2011 through 2018

What’s one thing about military life that you wish civilians knew?

The military provides you an instant sense of community and foundation no matter how many times you move.

What part of your service are you most proud of?

Being a graduate of the U.S. Army Ranger School

How did you transition to your role in civilian life?

I come from a combat arms background in the military, where I ran, planned, executed, and oversaw combat and reconnaissance operations. My first job out of the service was a Senior Operations Manager with Walmart grocery distribution. The job was similar: I had to motivate people to accomplish a common goal and run the operation.

What skills did you learn in the service that have translated to your work?

Engaged leadership paired with data analysis has been the most helpful in setting me up for success at my job. But the public speaking aspect does not hurt either.

Why is Milgard a good place to work for veterans?

Milgard has been great because they’ve allowed me to be authentic and I have been provided the latitude to run my department how I see fit. I have been empowered to drive change.

Milgard Windows and Doors is proud to hire veterans. Visit our career page to learn what Milgard can do for you.