From the Air Force to ADT: Don Young on ADT’s Commitment to Supporting Veterans Workforce Transition
At ADT, we’re committed to the growth and success of all employees, empowering them to take ownership of their careers and serve a great purpose. Don Young, Chief Operating Officer at ADT, is an excellent example of how that commitment extends to veterans. With his background in the U.S. Air Force and his leadership experience at ADT, Don has built a successful career while actively contributing to creating an environment where veterans — like himself — are equipped to succeed.
So, how does ADT support veterans in making this critical transition? In this Life at ADT blog, you’ll discover how Don’s leadership and ADT’s commitment to veterans are creating opportunities for growth, purpose, and impact in the workforce.
Building a Foundation
Starting his career in the military, Don gained skills that would become the foundation for his leadership roles at ADT and beyond. He credits the military with instilling a sense of discipline and commitment that has stayed with him throughout his career. “If there’s one thing that going into the military will do for almost anyone, it’s that it will increase the level of discipline and self-discipline that they have.” This perspective and level of dependability, along with the leadership skills he honed in the Air Force, has been critical as he transitioned to becoming the Chief Operating Officer at ADT, overseeing key business areas including technology, call centers, and overall operations.
Supporting The Transition
Along the way, Don has become an advocate for veterans, ensuring they are given the tools and resources they need to thrive in a civilian workforce and contribute to ADT’s mission of protecting and connecting what matters most. “Understanding the distinction between ‘have-to’ and ‘want-to’ responsibilities in life greatly enhances your appreciation for the opportunities driven by personal desire. I found that the military provided a valuable perspective, allowing me to clearly differentiate between what is mandatory and what is truly fulfilling.” This perspective, along with a strong sense of commitment developed while serving, helps veterans at ADT navigate their careers with a sense of purpose and ownership.
One of the core elements of ADT’s success is the value placed on diverse experiences and perspectives of employees. Veterans excel in the ability to lead, while approaching challenges with dependability, playing an integral role in driving our mission forward. Don, having made his own transition from military to corporate life, is deeply committed to ensuring that other veterans at ADT have the same opportunities to grow, succeed, and make a lasting impact within the company.
Building a Community for Veterans
A crucial part of ADT’s support for veterans is through the company’s Veterans BERG (Business Employee Resource Group), which provides a space for veterans to connect, share experiences, and support one another. Through this group, veterans at ADT can access mentorship and career guidance and take part in professional development opportunities designed to help them excel in their roles.
As an Executive Sponsor of the Veterans BERG, Don’s commitment to helping veterans succeed is evident in the way ADT fosters a community where veterans can feel connected and valued. “The primary goal of our BERG is to ensure veterans know what resources are available to them and to help them build a network of support,” Don explains. “We focus on creating frictionless communication paths so veterans can easily connect with each other, find information about benefits, and learn about career opportunities within ADT.”
For Donald, effective communication is key to fostering a supportive environment for veterans. “Everything becomes more effective when there’s clear, open communication,” he says. Through the BERG, veterans have a direct line to resources, support, and one another, enabling them to navigate their careers with confidence.
Advice for Veterans Entering the Workforce
“Don’t be shy about asking for help or sharing your journey with others,” Don says. “Connecting with fellow veterans is incredibly important. The more you reach out and engage, the stronger the community becomes.”
He encourages veterans to take an active role in seeking out resources, whether it’s for guidance on career development, veterans’ benefits, or simply finding camaraderie. “You don’t have to have all the answers right away,” he notes. “What’s most important is that you make the effort to connect with people who can support you and guide you through the transition.” By fostering an environment of openness and connection, ADT helps veterans navigate their transitions with a sense of belonging and purpose.
Ready to make an impact at ADT?
As ADT continues to grow and innovate, veterans will remain an integral part of the company’s success. Whether you’re transitioning into the workforce or advancing your current career, ADT offers an environment where you’ll thrive. Explore current job opportunities at ADT using the Search Jobs field and take the next step in building a career where you can make a difference.
