At Persistent Systems, our mission, “Networking the Battlefield,” is more than just a slogan. It represents our commitment to delivering the most advanced networking technology available. But our dedication doesn’t end there; it extends to every active duty and veteran service member who enters our doors.

Our first line of support goes to veterans who join Persistent as part of the team. Whether working in sales, technical training, field operations, or engineering, former service members receive the encouragement and resources to carry on the military mission beyond active service. Whether hosting fundraisers for military-focused nonprofits, sponsoring award dinners, or providing time off to reservists, all our military veteran team members find an opportunity to continue aiding their fellow service members.

Ryan Kowalske, our Vice President of Business Development for B2B, Integrators, and Law Enforcement, joined Persistent in 2018 after 12 years of active duty and four years as a Coast Guard reservist. Continuing his service, Kowalske has achieved an impressive 22 years of service in the Coast Guard. When selected to serve as an Executive Officer (XO) on a cutter for three months, he received tremendous support from Persistent.

It is rare for a reservist to be called up as an XO, and Kowalske was understandably nervous, honored, and extremely excited to take on the role. Reporting directly to the commanding officer, he had to demonstrate a high level of confidence and experience to manage the cutter’s day-to-day operations successfully.

Taking advantage of Persistent’s active-duty time-off policy, Kowalske coordinated with his team and senior leadership to delegate responsibilities to other team members, ensuring operations could continue smoothly. Additionally, he was able to check in with his Persistent team anytime and stay informed of new developments.

Once on the cutter, Kowalske adopted a nontraditional approach to his role, inspired in part by the leadership at Persistent. Leading by example, Kowalske identified each crew member’s strengths and gave them the autonomy to make decisions based on their expertise. Although initially unfamiliar with this approach, team morale quickly improved as crew members felt empowered by leadership to take ownership of their roles.

Having made a positive impact on the cutter and the lives of the crew members, Kowalske received the highest honor for a Coast Guard Reservist: The Captain John G. Witherspoon Inspirational Leader Award. This award recognizes his exemplification of the Coast Guard’s core values, mentorship, and ability to lead by example.

“I would not have been able to accomplish all that I have in the Coast Guard and receive this award without Persistent Systems. They have empowered me to succeed in my career at Persistent and the Coast Guard,” said Kowalske.

While reservists are typically only given up to one month of military leave at Persistent, senior leadership didn’t hesitate to grant Kowalske additional time off to serve our country.

“When you feel empowered, you want to work harder,” Kowalske remarks.

Empowerment at Persistent comes in many forms. From our commitment to hiring veterans and the Veterans Teams Chat to offering flexibility for reservists’ duties, we aim to help our team members maintain their military roots.

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