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Pat Eliason – Director of Military & Industrial Programs

by | Sep 3, 2020 | Company Updates

Current role: Director of Military & Industrial Programs

You have a very full and interesting career history. Could you tell us a little about that journey? My journey is somewhat different as I am making a mid-career switch. I recently completed 20 years in the Navy, culminating in command of USS The Sullivans (DDG 68). The Sullivans is a guided-missile destroyer homeported here in Mayport, FL. While in command of The Sullivans, my crew and I completed a 7-month deployment where we traveled over 42,000 Nautical Miles and spent most of our time in the Arabian Gulf. During my Naval career, I served on five ships to include a Frigate, 2 Aircraft Carriers, and 2 Destroyers. I also served ashore as an instructor/coach at the United States Naval Academy, an assignments officer at Navy Personnel Command, and a Counterterrorism Planner at Special Operations Command and the Pentagon.

Is there anything that you’re particularly excited about given your new position? Before I interviewed with Miller Electric, I had heard about their excellent culture. In my short time here, that is what I am most excited about.

I look forward to learning more about the industry and becoming a contributing member of the team. We have an excellent opportunity to grow the military side of our business.

Although your time in this position has just begun, is there anything about this industry that sticks out to you? The people. Similar to the Navy, there are a lot of hard-working people here who are fully committed to doing a good job.  

As a new member of the Miller Electric family, how have your interactions been thus far? Excellent– everyone here has been incredibly welcoming, and I am looking forward to learning more to contribute to the team.

My wife Teresa and my kids Jack (14) and Casey (12) have been by my side through many moves (11 in total) during my time in the Navy. Teresa and I met while we were going through Naval Nuclear Power School in Charleston, SC, and she gave up her promising career in the Navy to become a Navy spouse and is now a pre-school teacher. Our kids have lived in 5 states and gone to 6 different schools, and we are all excited to be staying in the Jacksonville area that has become home. We enjoyed the Navy lifestyle and the friends we have made along the way, but look forward to putting down some roots here in the Jacksonville area.

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