Bryan Silva’s narrative is one of evolution, resilience, and the constant pursuit of growth. Originating as an enlisted sailor, he ascended through the Navy’s ranks to become a seasoned Naval Officer, guided by a profound dedication to duty and an unyielding quest for personal advancement. With over two decades of service under his belt, Bryan now stands at the brink of a new chapter in his life, poised to leverage his accumulated skills and determination in the civilian sphere.

Bryan’s path to this moment wasn’t always straightforward. Like many young adults, Bryan’s entry into the Navy was influenced by family tradition and a desire for adventure. Reflecting on his early days, Bryan recalls the sage advice of his grandfather, a World War II Navy veteran, who saw in Bryan the same spirit of exploration and duty that defined his own service.

“My grandfather’s stories of service, coupled with the wisdom imparted by other veteran mentors who continue to inspire me today, were powerful motivators for me,” Bryan reflects, contemplating his decision to join the Navy. “My grandfather passed on invaluable lessons learned through his own experiences. It was this combination of duty, exploration, and the chance to make a difference outside of the shores of my hometown in California that ultimately led me to begin my own Naval career.”

Bryan’s journey, though not without its twists and turns, is emblematic of the transformative power of perseverance. From his initial enlistment in 1998, just a month following his high school graduation, to his subsequent rise to the rank of Engineering Limited Duty Officer (LDO), Bryan’s naval career was characterized by a steadfast commitment to excellence. Yet, as retirement loomed on the horizon, Bryan confronted the challenging prospect of transitioning to civilian life—a challenge that would ultimately redefine his path forward.

It was during this pivotal moment of uncertainty that Bryan’s encounter with the Syracuse

University’s D’Aniello Institute for Veterans and Military Families’ (IVMF) Onward to Opportunity (O2O) program proved providential. “I was inspired by the stories of fellow veterans who had successfully navigated the transition to civilian work through O2O,” Bryan said. “This ultimately led me to embark on a journey of exploration and self-discovery.” Fueled by his inherent passion for project management, Bryan set his sights on obtaining the O2O Project Management Professional (PMP) certification—a goal that would soon become the focal point of his aspirations, all at no cost to him due to the backing of esteemed institutions like JPMorgan Chase & Co. and the Schultz Family Foundation.

In a recent serendipitous encounter at the Mechanicsburg Chapter Supply Corps Birthday Ball this February, Bryan and his wife, both deeply embedded in the naval community, had the distinct honor of meeting Daniel D’Aniello, esteemed as the Navy Supply Corps Foundation’s 63rd Distinguished Alumnus and guest speaker at the event. However, what truly resonated with Bryan was D’Aniello’s affiliation with Syracuse University’s D’Aniello Institute for Veterans and Military Families.

“This connection underscored D’Aniello’s enduring commitment to supporting veterans and their families well beyond his days in the service, a dedication that deeply inspires me as I prepare for my own transition,” says Bryan. The significance of D’Aniello’s speech, coupled with his ongoing investment in the lives of those who have served, reignited Bryan’s motivation to embrace the ethos of continued service and support as he embarks on the next phase of his journey. This newfound inspiration comes at a crucial juncture. Having recently completed the comprehensive O2O boot camp, Bryan now strides confidently toward the next phase of his PMP Certification journey.

As Bryan prepares to bid farewell to his naval career, he does so with a sense of purpose and anticipation for the road ahead. With each passing day, he dedicates himself to the pursuit of excellence, drawing upon the invaluable skills and lessons learned during his military tenure as assets in his civilian endeavors.

Reflecting on his journey, Bryan offers a poignant piece of advice to those on the fence about enrolling in programs like O2O: “Get off the fence and do it.” He emphasizes that the benefits of participating in such programs far outweigh any doubts or reservations, asserting that it’s an opportunity to invest in oneself, chart a course towards a brighter future, and embrace the unknown with courage and conviction, not to mention the power of the IVMF alumni network.

With the unwavering support of programs like O2O and the inspiration drawn from individuals like D’Aniello and countless other veterans who have successfully transitioned to the civilian sector, Bryan sees the transition not just as a challenge, but as a path filled with promise, opportunity, and the potential for profound personal growth.

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