Finding Purpose After Military Service
Dave Newkirk’s Journey from the Marines to Mission-Driven Design
For many veterans, the transition from military to civilian life presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities. Dave Newkirk, Shive-Hattery’s Federal Market Strategist, knows this journey intimately.
After serving on active Duty as a Marine, Dave has carried the principles of service, sacrifice, and leadership into his civilian career, shaping his professional path and his continued dedication to making a difference.
Dave Newkirk with his father, a Vietnam veteran who inspired and challenged his path to the Marines.
Answering the Call to Serve
Growing up in a military family, Dave’s decision to enlist was shaped by admiration and rebellion. His father, a Vietnam veteran who served 23 years in the U.S. Army, was a strong role model but also offered cautionary advice.
“When I asked him about the Army, he told me not to join—it was too big, too bureaucratic,” Dave recalls. “So, I signed up for the Marines. He responded, ‘What the ___ did you do that for?’”
Dave had his reasons. “I wanted the biggest challenge,” he says. “And he replied, ‘I think you’ll get what you’re looking for from the Marines.’ He was right—I loved every second of it.”
Ultimately, Dave made the difficult decision to leave active duty to create stability for his growing family—something he lacked moving from base to base during his own childhood.
From active duty to continued service in civilian life, Dave’s journey reflects a lifelong commitment to purpose, leadership, and community—he wore the uniform with pride then and honors its values to this day.
Finding Purpose in Uniform
The Marine Corps instilled purpose early and deeply. “In boot camp, my mission was clear: to do whatever the Marine Corps needed to protect this country, even at the cost of my life,” Dave says.
He entered with an open contract and was willing to fill any role the Corps required. He scored high on the ASVAB and was assigned to be an administrative clerk, a 0151. “I said, ‘I’ll be the best darn clerk in the Marines,’” Dave says with a laugh. He was true to his word, eventually earning the rare distinction of Marine Sailor of the Year in 1997 while serving at U.S. Space Command—the first Marine ever to receive the honor.
“Finding steady income and benefits was my first priority. But once I secured that, I realized I had a huge void. I missed serving a greater cause.”
Civilian Life: A New Kind of Mission
Leaving the Marines brought a new kind of uncertainty. Unlike officers, enlisted veterans often exit without a college degree, and for Dave, balancing the roles of a new father, husband, and provider made the transition particularly difficult.
“Finding steady income and benefits was my first priority. But once I secured that, I realized I had a huge void,” he explains. “I missed serving a greater cause.”
It took nearly three years before that missing purpose became clear. Dave found fulfillment by volunteering, especially with organizations supporting fellow veterans and military families. He became active in his local SAME (Society of American Military Engineers) Post and joined Rotary International, helping to raise funds and organize community celebrations for military families. “It helped me fill the service obligation I still felt—to support and protect others,” he says.
Dave with his family, the driving force behind his decision to transition from military service to a mission-driven civilian career.
Bringing Military Values to a Civilian Career
Dave’s years in uniform continue to influence his approach to work and leadership. “The military gave me discipline, service above self, confidence, and deep respect for all people,” he says. “I was trained to jump in and help wherever needed.”
His Marine Corps experience presenting to everyone from junior enlisted to top brass gave him the confidence to communicate across all levels—an invaluable skill in his current role.
“I’m proud to have served, and I encourage others to serve in any way they can. It deepens your appreciation for what makes this country strong.”
Designing for a Safer, Stronger Future
Today, Dave channels his passion into the built environment. He sees the design and construction industry as integral to national security and public service.
“Our focus on sustainable buildings, secure communications, and infrastructure helps safeguard our country’s future,” he explains. “By collaborating with the military and government, we create stronger, more resilient facilities—built smarter and faster.”
He believes the industry plays a critical role in protecting against threats, foreign and domestic. “We’re not just designing structures. We’re building the foundation for a safer, more secure America.”
SPOTLIGHT
About Dave Newkirk, F.SAME
Dave Newkirk is a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and seasoned AEC professional with over 25 years of experience in federal market strategy, business development, and project leadership. Known for connecting teams with purpose-driven work, Dave has led successful pursuits across military and public sectors, both nationally and abroad.
A passionate community advocate, he served eight years on the North Thurston Public Schools Board and has held national leadership roles with the Society of American Military Engineers. At Shive-Hattery, Dave brings a relationship-first approach to navigating complex federal opportunities, always guided by his belief in service over self.
