The ability to adapt to changing conditions, think strategically, and lead in diverse and challenging environments are some of the skills highly valued in the civilian sector. While the military and the civilian world operate in different contexts, many successful business leaders and entrepreneurs have attributed their accomplishments to the lessons they learned in the military.

In this episode, Brett Henderson talks with David Stepanek, Bristow's Executive Vice President, Sales and Chief Transformation Officer. In his role, David is responsible for all sales, marketing, and commercial functions of the business. In addition to activities in Bristow's existing end markets, his focus includes transforming the company's business mix through strategic diversification into new markets.

As a Marine Corps veteran, David talks with Brett about what attracted him to the aviation industry, how he adapts his leadership style in the civilian world, and his secret to success.

In this episode:

01:26 - Backstory of David Stepanek

04:31 - What attracted David to the aviation industry

06:30 - How David adapts his leadership style in the civilian world

11:43 - David's secret to success

15:14 - What it takes to be truly present in a conversation

18:56 - The role that launched David's career

25:08 - How David approaches work-life balance

31:14 - Some of the challenges facing the aviation industry today

37:31 - David's vision for the Bristow Group

41:27 - Some of the failures David has experienced in his career

45:43 - What David advises veterans

Favorite Quotes

07:40 - "In the civilian world, if you're doing what you show up for work, do your job description, go a little bit over the edge, and show some enthusiasm, intelligence, and courage, you're a rockstar." - David Stepanek

13:05 - "Never in my life have I anticipated being an executive vice president of a large public company, being named executive officer and being exposed to what I have. But over some time, I started to see that path. When I saw what I thought was an opportunity, I jumped on it and took risks." - David Stepanek

35:45 - "We're taking a revolutionary event, whether that's in aviation, communication, or crypto coin. We have to apply evolutionary laws to be successful because that will sustain and get us through it. That's the challenge of aligning people on the intersection of evolution and revolution." - David Stepanek

45:33 - "Take opportunities that come to you and do the best at whatever you have and be doing that day. Doing your best doesn't mean you have to be the best at everything. It means you have to be your best person that day and apply that to your business or your safety." - David Stepanek

46:09 - "If you're a leader, be present in your group. Make sure that you've set an example. Make sure you engage thoughtfully and intently with the people you lead, and they'll continue to provide you with whatever is necessary to succeed." - David Stepanek

Connect with Brett Henderson

• 310-491-7975
• Swe90.com
• LinkedIn: Brett Henderson
• Strategic Wealth Endeavor

Connect with David Stepanek

• LinkedIn
• Bristow Group

Listen to The Veteran Entrepreneur Masterclass Podcast

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