Celebrating the U.S. Navy’s Birthday: AmeriTech Team Members’ Stories of Service

For AmeriTech’s Kellyann Bruno, Director of Government Affairs, and Rob Maturo, Vice President of Logistics and Business Development, the decision to join the U.S. Navy started with family. Inspired by the service of their father and grandfather, respectively, both pursued experiences that would shape their lives and careers.

In celebration of the Navy’s 251st birthday, we’re sharing their stories—from life aboard ship to the lessons they bring to AmeriTech today.

Following in Their Footsteps

Growing up, Kellyann loved hearing her father’s stories about his Navy experiences and the places he traveled.

“His stories inspired me to follow in his footsteps, serve my country, and have adventures of my own,” she shared.

Rob held his grandfather, a Navy veteran, in the highest regard. His respect for him became a major influence on his decision to enlist. Rob also had a longtime fascination with Naval aviation and wanted the opportunity to work around Navy aircraft.

Joining the Navy gave both Kellyann and Rob the chance to continue family traditions while building their own stories of service.

Two Experiences at Sea

Kellyann served as a Petty Officer Third Class, Postal Clerk (PC3) aboard the USS Shenandoah (AD-44), a destroyer tender.

One of her proudest memories is being part of the first boot camp graduating class after women were authorized to serve aboard certain Navy ships.

“Being part of that chapter in Navy history and having the opportunity to serve alongside so many incredible sailors is something I will always cherish,” she said.

Rob served three years aboard the USS John F. Kennedy (CV-67) aircraft carrier, where his responsibilities involved the launch and recovery of Naval aircraft. Working around the flight deck and catapult operations required discipline, teamwork, attention to detail, and a constant commitment to safety.

One of his proudest moments was returning home alongside his shipmates after a six-month overseas deployment. The challenges and experiences they shared created a bond he continues to value.

“It was a tremendous feeling of pride and accomplishment, not just for myself, but for everyone I had the privilege of serving alongside,” Rob shared.

Perseverance, Humility, and Leadership

For Kellyann, perseverance is one of the most valuable lessons she took from her service: staying committed, working through challenges, and seeing a task through to completion. That lesson continues to guide her life and career.

Rob’s service gave him an early introduction to leadership. Within his first six months aboard ship, he became a Third Class Petty Officer and was placed in a position supervising sailors, many with more years of experience than him. He quickly learned that leadership meant earning respect, listening to experienced teammates, and setting an example.

“Leadership is not simply about rank or authority,” he explained. “It is about earning respect, leading by example, remaining humble, listening to those with experience, and never asking someone to do something you would not be willing to do yourself.”

Rob’s overseas travels also broadened his perspective and strengthened his appreciation for the opportunities and freedoms he enjoys at home.

Carrying Their Service into Their Work

Kellyann applies the teamwork, accountability, and commitment she learned in the Navy to her work at AmeriTech. Whether she is helping resolve challenges, supporting project teams, or working with government clients, those values remain central to her approach.

“I believe success comes from working together, staying committed, and finding a way forward,” she said.

Rob carries his leadership lessons into his work at AmeriTech as well. When he entered the business world with limited industry experience, he understood the importance of building relationships and learning from people whose knowledge complemented his own.

“The Navy taught me that you do not have to be the most experienced person in the room to be an effective leader,” he shared. “You need to be willing to learn, respect the people around you, and work together toward a common goal.”

A Time for Reflection and Gratitude

For Kellyann, the Navy’s birthday brings a sense of honor, pride, and gratitude for the people with whom she served.

“I am humbled by the incredible people I had the privilege of serving alongside and grateful for the opportunity to continue serving in a different way by supporting my fellow veterans,” she shared.

For Rob, the Navy’s birthday is a chance to recognize generations of sailors and reflect on the experiences that helped shape him.

“I will always be grateful for the opportunity to have worn the uniform and to have been part of something much greater than myself,” he said.

As a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business, AmeriTech is grateful for the experience, dedication, and perspective veterans bring to our team. This Navy birthday, we thank Kellyann, Rob, and all who have served in the U.S. Navy.