U Krewer Scott S. has been in the U.S. Army for over three decades. He has used his expertise to bring honor to his country as a lieutenant colonel and knowledge to his position as VP of People Operations and Care at UKG. Not only has Scott led an accomplished career, but he's gained enough valuable experience to last a lifetime both in his work and livelihood.
In honor of Veterans Day and Remembrance Day, we spoke with Scott, who is a member of UKG’s veteran employee resource group, VETS (Veterans & Allies), to better understand his experience and how his life has changed through serving in the Army and working at UKG.
Tell us about your military experience. I am an active member of the U.S. Army Reserve, and I am culminating my military career as a lieutenant colonel having just completed 31 years of service. I have served with the Army on active duty as a national guardsman and in the Army Reserve. I am a field artillery officer by training. Now, I am the New England Area Coordinator for the 97th brigade teaching The Command and General Staff Officers’ Course.
What challenges did you face transitioning from the military to a civilian career? I think the hardest part of the transition is resetting your context to the new tasks at hand and level-setting expectations on how military service translates to civilian service. In the military, we are given huge opportunities at a young age to lead and manage both personnel and equipment in a very high-stakes environment. I have felt at times and witnessed many transitioning military members struggle to understand that when they transition, they must likely start at a lower level of responsibility in their new organization and use their skills and leadership acumen to build into a new leadership role in their civilian endeavors.
In recognition of veterans, we must continue to recognize and appreciate the sacrifices made by our family and loved ones. I would not have been able to continue my journey without the unwavering support of my wife and kids. While my service gets the headlines, theirs is the true sacrifice.
How did the military prepare you for a career at UKG? The foundation of a successful military unit is trust. In the military, I have learned the importance of technical skills combined with teamwork and trust. You must trust the people you serve with to do their job competently and with discipline. The work that is performed in the military is dangerous and it is all-people dependent. Operating in this environment lends itself to trusting others and being trustworthy.
What attracted you to UKG? The culture. I came from a culture at my prior company where leaders “ate first.” I have already experienced how the leaders at UKG value their people and seek their input on key decisions and future changes. They share their personal stories, and they want to know ours. It’s refreshing and it sets us apart. The tagline, “Our Purpose Is People,” really resonated with me. From my first interview here, I knew that the culture at UKG was exceptional and exactly what I was looking for.
Has anything surprised you about working here? I think UKG is the most transparent organization I have worked for. I have already been told what is working, where our products are strong in the market, and where we need to improve. Problems are not sugar-coated and instead, they’re discussed as opportunities for continuous improvement.
What sets UKG apart from other employers? I have never felt as welcomed in an organization in such a short time as I have at UKG. Everyone I have met starts with some form or variation of “how can I help you succeed.” When UKG says “Our Purpose Is People,” it’s not just a saying or a catchy phrase; it’s real, and I feel it.
Share a piece of advice with a veteran or service member who is considering a career at UKG. The skills you learn in the military (competence, teamwork, leadership, agility) are all critical at UKG. Apply those skills and you will thrive here.
Interested in joining the U Krew? Explore careers at UKG.
Learn more about UKG’s employee resource groups (ERGs).
Find out how UKG is building an inclusive environment for all people.
