Building bridges: Helping veterans thrive at Avangrid, and beyond
In addition to their day jobs at Avangrid, two military veterans—Micah Weinstein and Shawn Cronkwright—have found a new mission: supporting those who’ve served and building a bridge between military and civilian life.
Avangrid’s employee resource group has nearly 300 members.
Shawn (above right), the Manager of the Cyber Security Operations Center and Vice Chair of the AVAN-Veterans Employee Resource Group (ERG), brings with him a legacy of service rooted in family tradition. “My grandparents, father, uncle, and cousins all served,” he says. “I stand proud. The brotherhood, the relationships, the connections you make—they’re different than anything in the civilian world.”
His military journey began in the U.S. Army, where he specialized as a Network Switching Systems Operator. From supporting a Patriot Missile Battery to serving as an IT specialist in the S6 office, Shawn’s career was defined by critical communications and operational readiness. He completed two overseas tours and trained alongside sister battalions in South Korea, experiences that shaped his resilience and leadership.
Micah (above left), meanwhile, serves as Security Program Manager overseeing physical security for Avangrid Power’s Eastern operations. He’s also the Chair of AVAN-Veterans, a role he stepped into after attending a call in early 2024.
Micah Weinstein
Micah’s military path began in 2008 with the U.S. Coast Guard, later transitioning to the Reserves in 2018. Stationed across the country—from Florida to Maine—and deployed throughout the Caribbean and South America, he conducted missions ranging from search and rescue to narcotics interdiction and fisheries law enforcement. “Growing up in Alaska, it was common to see and hear about their operations and accomplishments, which naturally gained my interest and love for the water.”
Both men agree that veterans bring invaluable attributes to the workplace: discipline, adaptability, teamwork, and a mission-first mindset. “Veterans thrive in high-pressure environments,” Shawn explains. “They’re natural leaders.” Micah adds, “We’re reliable, loyal, and we know how to take care of our people.”
Their shared passion for veteran advocacy led them to AVAN-Veterans, a growing community within the company. “It’s more than recognition,” Shawn says. “It’s real support—career development, mentorship, and transition assistance.” Micah highlights recent successes: “We’ve hosted Veteran recruiting events, sponsored & volunteered with numerous organizations across the country, and helped Avangrid earn the 2025 Military Friendly Employer designation.”
Avangrid’s support for veterans is tangible. From military leave policies to monthly ERG calls, the company fosters an environment where veterans can thrive. “It’s a space where veterans and allies connect,” Shawn says. “And where we honor service through spotlight stories and recognition programs.”
But both men know that the journey doesn’t end when the uniform comes off.
AVAN-Vets regularly contributes to fundraisers for organization like Homes for the Brave in Connecticut, which provides housing and services to help homeless veterans.
“Life after the military isn’t just a transition—it’s a transformation,” Shawn reflects. “There’s a shift in identity, purpose, and community. Without support, veterans can feel misunderstood.” Micah echoes this sentiment: “There is life after the military. A whole new world. And AVAN-Veterans is a great way to start exploring it.”
Their message to civilians is simple: show up, ask questions, and listen. “Support, patience, and genuine curiosity go a long way,” Shawn says. “Help bridge the gap.”
Together, Shawn and Micah are proving that the values forged in service—honor, commitment, and camaraderie—can build stronger communities and workplaces. And through AVAN-Veterans, they’re ensuring that no veteran walks alone.
Learn more about veterans at Avangrid: https://www.avangrid.com/veterans
