New Job, Same Identity

Well, after many months of networking and figuring out where I want to move next in my career, the search is over! I'm happy to report that I accepted an offer to become a Sr. Program Manager in Rockwell Collins Commercial Systems. I'll be working in the aftermarket (ie, upgrades to old aircraft) segment of business jets. I'm super-pumped about this opportunity. I have a lot to learn, but I'm ready for the challenge.

It's really cool to look back at all of the various jobs I've considered over the past nine months. Through it all, even in the jobs that I did not get, I can see how God was preparing this specific opportunity for me. Even when I started my MBA in 2004, I had no idea that program management would be the right fit. I've learned a lot about myself and my passions in life, so I pray that I'll be able to fully apply my strengths in this new role.

Of course, this means I'm hanging up my pocket protector and saying goodbye to engineering after six-plus years. A large number of my friends are engineers, but I'm fairly sure this move to "the dark side" won't affect our friendships. I just need to remember to minimize my use of phrases like "leveraging core competencies" and "synergizing to increase shareholder value." :-D I wondered for awhile how I would feel about no longer being an engineer, but I'm completely comfortable with the idea. I know fully well that my identity is not in any job title that I may hold; it is fixed in Christ.

I'll leave you with a question to ponder: Where do you find your identity?