Merging Pride and Passion from the Air Force to ESPN
Did you know about The Walt Disney Company’s rich history supporting veterans and their families? Through the Heroes Work Here initiative, Disney hires veterans and military families in various roles across the company.
Meet John Stephens! He currently is a senior manager in Production Operations/Network Operations with ESPN in Charlotte, North Carolina.
John decided to enlist in the United States Air Force after high school with the passion and pride for serving his country. It was there that he was able to be fully immersed in television production working in “combat camera”. He was able to travel around the world documenting troops and various missions. He was able to train behind the camera and learn the ins and outs of production. Through this experience he was able to bring his skills to civilian life and embark on his new professional career.
As he started transitioning out of the Air Force, John found the opportunity to join ESPN through his work at a local television studio. He really enjoyed the way he could bring his technical and leadership skills from his service to his new adventure. John found similarities between ESPN’s culture and the military in terms of structure, diligence, and drive. With these skills, he’s able to work in an industry that he loves. From producing games on the SEC networks, ESPN, ESPN 2 and more, he continues to be excited about his role to this day!
John looks to the future of The Walt Disney Company and ESPN with excitement and more! With many career growth opportunities, John has been able to build a 24 year legacy and career that he is proud of. He recollects how much has changed over the years, from starting as one of 58 in with ESPN in Charlotte to now having over 300 local coworkers!
Now, as an ESPN co-chair for the Business Employee Resource Group (BERG) Salute, he is able to combine his love for Disney and pride in his military service to connect with other veterans and military families around the enterprise. Salute has offered John the opportunity to continue to carry his values to his work at Disney, attend and organize various events, and give back to the veteran community that he loves.
To John and his fellow Disney employees who have served their country, thank you and Happy Veterans Day!
Click here to learn more about Heroes Work Here!
To learn more about opportunities at ESPN visit www.disneycareers.com!
