James Lawrence Vincent
Case Manager, Live Well
Which branch of the military did you serve in, and why did you choose it?
I joined the Army in 1988. I was involved in an auto accident in 1986 and subsequently missed out on an opportunity to attend college after high school. I needed a direction, so I started in the reserves while my case was going through the courts. I then switched to active duty.
What skills or values from your military service do you find most useful in your current role?
I see the attention to detail coming out in me, especially working in a position where having to help clients is paramount. I also see not only my punctuality shining, but also, I have a tendency to not take off much time, as I feel the ‘mission’ is more important than my personal needs.
What brought you to FCS?
It was FCS that actually reached out to me first. I had just graduated from Oklahoma State (Go Cowboys!!), and looking through my LinkedIn profile, I noticed a posting that told me that a new program would be starting up soon and I should apply for it. I didn’t get in that program, but my credentials were sent to Live Well and I landed that position. I transferred to East (Tulsa office), and I am still loving the work that I do and the clients I work with.
What does Veterans Day mean to you personally?
Most places I go, people thank me for my service. I am very humble about it, as I tell people that I didn’t do much, except answer a call when my country needed me to. It is a public holiday where I get recognized and I am thankful for that.
How has your military experience influenced your career and life today?
It gives me a drive to help clients. At that time, I served the country. Now I am still serving, just on a smaller scale. I also have a tendency to keep all my clocks to 24-hour time, and my dates in Day/Month/Year format.
