Sinclair Harris Q&A Interview

Can you share a bit about your military background?

I served for over 34 years in the United States Navy. I retired as a Rear Admiral (O8) while serving in the Joint Staff as the Vice Director of Operations. I served at sea on many different ships and overseas. My last operational tour was as Commander, US Fourth Fleet and Commander, Naval Forces South.

What is one valuable lesson, skill, or core value from your time in the service that you still carry with you today?

The importance of taking care of the people I was privileged to lead and the power of active listening.

What sparked your interest in MANTECH, and how did you navigate the initial transition from the military to the corporate world?

MANTECH is my second firm after retiring in 2015. I had over 8 years with my first firm and learned the art/science of business development. MANTECH attracted me because of its significant Navy and Naval expertise and work. I navigated the transition by working with great mentors and coaches with business experience.

What was the biggest culture shock or unexpected challenge you faced when entering the civilian workforce?

When coming from the military one needs to check their ego. The more senior you are the harder it will be. The challenge is understanding the difference between public service and working in a for profit organization. Metrics for success are different.

Were there any specific programs, mentors, or resources (e.g., SkillBridge, veterans networks) that helped you bridge the gap?

I was able to use my network of retirees such as The Flag and General Officer Network and MOAA.

How do your military skills translate into your current role here at MANTECH?

Active listening, collaboration, team work, data driven decision making, flexibility and continuous learning were all important in the military and are even more so in my role at MANTECH.

How would you describe your experience feeling “at home” or finding your footing in the civilian world? Do you feel MANTECH understands the value veterans bring?

MANTECH most certainly values its veterans and embraces the culture we came from. I feel very at home in the MANTECH Defense and Space team.

What does a typical day look like for you now, and what do you enjoy most about working for MANTECH?

I enjoy collaboration with others in MANTECH both Sector and Practices to help our Sea Services with their most challenging engineering and technical issues. The days are filled with client engagements, technical discussions and problem solving.

What do you miss most about being in the military, and how do you find or replicate that sense of community/camaraderie in your civilian life?

MANTECH is a corporate sponsor to several organizations – Navy League, NDIA, AFCEA to name a few – that support the military. In these engagements I do business but also keep my contact with those I served with and those who serve today. I do miss going to sea.

If you could go back in time and give one piece of advice to yourself on the day you separated from the military, what would it be?

Take a little more time off before jumping into a new world.

What advice would you give to other veterans who are currently looking to break into MANTECH and the cleared field?

1. Do your homework.

2. Check the Careers pages to see what we are looking to hire.

3. Make contact with folks in MANTECH to get a sense of the good culture we have.

4. Engage with others who have transitioned by attending the many conferences and expos that are held.

What are you most passionate about?

My God, My Country, My Family and My Navy.

Is there anything else about your journey, your identity as a veteran, or your time at MANTECH that you’d like to share?

Keep an open mind, talk to everyone possible, be open to counsel from those younger than yourself, and if you are not enjoying what you are doing at the first place, keep looking.