Veteran Dell Fletcher shows how you can transfer military skills to working at Walmart.
Some people have to choose between career success and personal fulfillment. Dell Fletcher found a place where he can have both: Walmart.
After 17 years in the Marines and Air National Guard on both active and reserve duty, Dell earned degrees in cybersecurity. He joined Walmart as a cybersecurity engineer in 2020 and has been a leader ever since.
“From military service, we acquire so many great skills — hard skills — whether it's working on vehicles, instructing on the rifle range or working in cybersecurity,” Dell explains. “And also soft skills, like being calm under pressure and communicating effectively.”
Dell knows firsthand the skills veterans develop in the military transfer well across many roles within Walmart. “There are so many ways that associates with a military background can contribute and lead,” he says.
How Dell grows his career
Today, Dell supports cybersecurity efforts in Walmart’s markets worldwide as part of the InfoSec international team. He has also volunteered at Associates Week, served in soup kitchens, rescued dogs, learned to fish, joined three Associate Resource Groups and mentored dozens of associates!
How does he do it all — and with a genuine smile and humble heart? “We learn how to be leaders in the military,” Dell says with his characteristic positivity. “And we’re known for getting things done.”
“I have had great leaders, great teams and great opportunities to truly excel here," Dell shares. "One key takeaway is the culture and ability to have mentors who have given me good advice, feedback and great books to read, which have helped with my professional development.”
In his role as a cybersecurity professional, Dell’s mission is to help international markets improve their online security and protect the Walmart brand. “Our job is to help secure the Walmart enterprise from any potential risks, but we also need to move at the speed of the business,” he explains.
How Dell fills his cup
When he’s not at the office or at home with his wife — Ana, who is also a Walmart associate — and 9-year-old daughter, he’s taking part in community events and volunteer opportunities.
“I've done a lot of different philanthropy events in the community with Walmart. Because I raise my hand and get involved, opportunities present themselves,” he explains. “If you have something that you are passionate about, look for those stretch opportunities and volunteer, because it helps you find balance,” Dell.
Dell is also active in the Walmart Serves Associate Resource Group (ARG), which supports military associates and their families. “Associate Resource Groups give associates an opportunity to find that sense of belonging in a community of people who have the same values, same traits, and same principles,” Dell says.
“Having that sense of belonging helps prevent isolation and other challenges you may face in a new environment. I'm glad that Walmart has platforms like that to help people get connected and create that belonging.”
When he volunteered at the Walmart Serves ARG tent during Associates Week 2024, he met hundreds of military and veteran associates from around the world. “The event was a success, with many associates expressing interest in getting involved and helping with outreach in their local communities,” Dell shares.
“There are so many ways to get involved with different initiatives if you just reach out and seek those opportunities,” he says. “That’s why Walmart is great — because the culture is great!”
