Lee Kirby, Salute Co-Founder and retired Army Colonel, interviewed Aisis White, a Military Spouse and current Talent Acquisition Lead Recruiter for Salute.
Can you briefly share your background, including your connection to military life and your path into the data center industry?
Over the past 10 years in the human resources industry, I’ve had the opportunity to grow in so many ways. My experience has spanned across candidate experience, systems testing, process improvement and design, and implementing workflow efficiencies. I’ve also been fortunate to gain early exposure to recruiting, which quickly became a passion of mine.
My connection with the military comes through my husband. He is currently active duty in the Army and comes from a family with a strong lineage of service members.
Like many others in this industry, my path into data centers began with an opportunity to say “yes, I accept the offer.” I knew that Salute was a growing company, and I wanted to grow alongside it while applying my existing experience. A year and a half ago, I didn’t know what a data center was, but once it was explained to me, everything clicked. I quickly realized that data centers aren’t new; they’ve evolved from what many of us once knew as server rooms.
How has your experience as a military spouse shaped your professional journey and career decisions?
My military spouse experience has shaped my professional journey by teaching me to learn as much as I can and to continuously grow. I’ve also learned that there will be times when you must pivot and make adjustments throughout your career.
What skills or qualities developed through military life have been most valuable in your role today?
I’ve learned to stay patient and trust that what’s meant for me will come, while continuing to put in the work. That’s a quality I’ve been intentionally building. Also, giving myself grace.
How did you first become aware of opportunities in the data center industry, and what drew you to it?
I came across the Data Center industry through the Military Spouse Employment Partnership. I saw that Salute had a Recruiter position available and I shared interest and here I am now! After applying I did my research of the company and it drew me more into learning about the industry and I enjoy systems and processes.
What enabled your transition into your current role — for example, flexibility, training, or support networks?
The MSEP has career coaches, and they help me revamp my resume which landed me this opportunity here at Salute.
How has your role evolved since entering the industry, and what has had the greatest impact on your development?
My role has evolved based on becoming an expert in our team’s process and procedures, participating in projects, and providing ideas to make our Talent Acquisition process seamless. The greatest impact on my development has been learning the business, meeting other team members and senior leaders.
How has working in this field shaped your perspective on long-term career stability and growth as part of a military family?
Working in this field has shaped my perspective by reinforcing the importance of supporting service members as they transition into the civilian workforce. Many individuals benefit from guidance in understanding how their skills translate into long-term career opportunities. I value being part of an organization like Salute that is committed to providing veterans, active duty, and transitioning service members with pathways to build meaningful careers not just secure jobs. Additionally, the data center industry continues to offer strong potential for long-term stability and growth, especially with the rapid advancement of AI and ongoing technology innovation.
How important is community and support in building a sustainable career, and how do you contribute to supporting others today?
I am a strong advocate for giving back and sharing information. Community is important to me it’s empowering to know that you’re supported and have access to resources that help sustain and grow your career through collective outreach. Professionally I contribute by reviewing resumes, providing guidance on translating transferable skills, offering interview preparation, and providing advice when asked.
What advice would you give to other military spouses or those balancing both service and family roles who are considering this industry?
The advice I would give a military spouse, again, lean on your community, your family, and network. I know it can be scary to build all that fresh and new especially when you’re in a new city, state, and country but take your time. The right people will be apart of your circle and help you along the way. At the same time do it afraid! You never know who you will connect with.
For anyone considering the industry, do your research, look at roles that interest you, compare your work experience and see how your skillset can transfer, and then start connecting and applying! There are many career fairs, conferences, and connections on LinkedIn to start gaining insight.