November Spotlight: Leanna Tacik | From Marine to Data Engineer    

In honor of Veterans Day and the Marine Corps Birthday, STEERBRIDGE proudly spotlights Leanna Tacik, a Marine Corps Veteran and a key member of our MCAS Beaufort Fleet Data Team. As a Data Engineer, Leanna brings drive, precision, and mission focus to her work—qualities honed during her military service and carried into her civilian career.

As STEERBRIDGE’s youngest Marine Corps Veteran, Leanna holds a special place in our Veteran-focused campaign. Her journey reflects the strength and potential of the next generation of service members continuing to make a difference after the uniform. 

A Marine’s Journey to Technology 

Leanna began her military career in the United States Marine Corps, where she served both as an enlisted Marine and later as a commissioned officer. She first worked as a 6046 Aviation Maintenance Administrator, managing mission-critical maintenance and flight data for the F-35 program—directly supporting operational readiness and safety. After commissioning, she served as a Communications Officer, leading Marines and overseeing communications and IT systems vital to command and control operations. Through these roles, Leanna developed a deep appreciation for the power of technology and data—not just as tools, but as strategic enablers in complex, high-stakes environments. Her work increasingly focused on the intersection of communications, intelligence, and operational planning, where she applied emerging doctrine like MCDP 8 – Information to ensure resilient, secure, and intelligence-informed information flow in contested environments.

“Working in communications taught me the importance of accuracy and timing,” she said. “That experience showed me how powerful data can be when it’s applied effectively.”

After completing her service, Leanna transitioned into civilian life with a mission in mind: to continue learning and serving in a new capacity. 

Finding a New Mission at STEERBRIDGE    

Leanna joined STEERBRIDGE in 2023 and immediately made an impact as part of the Fleet Data Team. She works on-site at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, where she collects and analyzes data that supports aircraft readiness for the F-35 program.

“At STEERBRIDGE, I feel like I’m still serving—just in a different way,” she shared. “It’s incredibly rewarding to know my work supports real-world outcomes that matter.”

Her technical contributions directly influence sustainment operations, making a measurable difference in support of our nation’s defense objectives. 

Youngest Marine Veteran at STEERBRIDGE

During the Marine Corps Birthday, tradition calls for honoring the youngest and oldest Marines present. As STEERBRIDGE’s youngest Marine Corps Veteran, Leanna carries that tradition with pride.

“It’s a reminder that no matter your age or rank, every Marine plays a role in a much larger legacy,” she said. “That stays with you long after your service ends.”

Leanna brings the Marine Corps values of honor, courage, and commitment to every project and team she supports.  

Bridging Military Experience and Civilian Success  

Like many Veterans, Leanna faced a learning curve when transitioning out of the military. She credits her success at STEERBRIDGE to the strong support system around her and her ability to apply what she learned in uniform.

“There’s a lot of support here,” she said. “I’ve grown more confident in my skills, and I’m grateful for teammates who are always willing to help.”

Her time in the Marines instilled a sense of discipline and problem-solving that aligns perfectly with the fast-paced world of data engineering. 

Always Learning, Always Advancing  

Leanna is currently completing a degree in computer science while working full time—an impressive feat that reflects her commitment to growth. She remains curious, motivated, and ready to take on new challenges in the field of data science.

“I’m always looking to improve and take on more responsibility,” she said. “There’s so much more to learn, and I want to be ready for whatever’s next.”

As she builds her technical expertise, she also hopes to mentor fellow Veterans who are beginning their transition into the civilian workforce.  

Advice for Fellow Veterans  

For other Veterans considering a transition into tech or data-focused careers, Leanna offers this advice:

“Believe in your experience. The structure, discipline, and adaptability you gain in the military absolutely carry over. Be willing to ask questions and keep learning.”

She also stresses the importance of finding a company that values mission and people—a combination she found at STEERBRIDGE. 

Impact That Matters   

Leanna finds meaning in knowing her work supports something greater. Every piece of data she processes contributes to a broader effort—keeping aircraft mission-ready and ensuring warfighters have what they need.

“Every dataset tells a story,” she said. “It helps make informed decisions that impact safety and readiness. I take that responsibility seriously.”

That sense of purpose fuels her work and connects her day-to-day efforts to a larger mission. 

Recognized by Leadership 

Leanna’s impact hasn’t gone unnoticed. Her team and company leaders recognize her dedication, attention to detail, and strong work ethic.

“She’s dependable, focused, and mission-minded,” one colleague shared. “It’s clear she approaches her work with the same mindset she had in the Marine Corps—be disciplined, do it right, and never stop improving.” 

Final Thoughts

Leanna Tacik embodies the STEERBRIDGE spirit: mission-driven, values-based, and always pushing forward. As our youngest Marine Corps Veteran, she represents a new generation of leaders in tech and defense-related support.

We’re honored to recognize her as our November Employee of the Month—and proud to celebrate her story during this Veteran-focused week. 

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