During July, MPC is celebrating Patriotism Month to recognize and honor our nation’s veterans and service members. MPC Senior Business Development Advisor Jason Evans shares what inspired him to join the U.S. Army, the lessons he gained while serving, why he enjoys working in the energy industry and his involvement in our HONOR Veteran’s employee network.

What inspired him to join the U.S. Army

Evans served in the U.S. Army as an infantryman for four years in 1^st Battalion, 506th Infantry Regiment and 1^st Battalion, 5^th Infantry Regiment. He shared that his grandfather inspired him to join the U.S. Army. “My grandfather was drafted in the Korean War and was the only connection my family had to the military. He served in the U.S. Army for just under 2 years as an infantryman in the 25^th infantry division. My grandfather was well-known and respected in our community, so when a U.S. Army recruiter approached me during my senior year of high school, I knew I wanted to follow in my grandfather’s footsteps and give back to my country.” 

The lessons he gained in the military

“The military taught me to give it my all. I work to apply this principle in the workplace by setting a high standard in all that I do. I want to leave a project better than how I found it, so others can have a polished product,” he shared. “Another lesson I gained from the military is to lead with integrity and set a good example for others. I’ve learned that setting a good example for others can help strengthen morale, and people are more likely to follow.”

Why he enjoys working in the energy industry

After transitioning from the military into civilian life, Evans earned a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from UC Berkeley and a master’s degree in business administration from the University of Washington and has worked in the energy industry for over 15 years. “What I enjoy most about being a senior business development advisor at MPC is that the role entails both chemical engineering and business. I also value the positive and inclusive culture at MPC and know that the work that we do in energy helps contribute to society. I’d encourage more veterans to consider a career in energy. We have a lot of transferable skills, including a strong work ethic, critical thinking skills and leadership experience to bring to the workplace.”

His involvement with HONOR

Evans was recently appointed the co-leader for our Veterans employee network chapter in Findlay, Ohio. “Joining HONOR allows me to give back to other veterans at MPC and in the community. I look forward to getting to know all our members and allies and participating in activities and events to support our veterans, service members and their families.”