Kattsafe Veteran Spotlight: Trent Gruwell
As part of our Honoring Those campaign, we’re recognizing veterans within the Kattsafe team.
Today, we’re proud to spotlight Trent Gruwell, who is still serving in the Indiana Army National Guard after 15 years.
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Introduction
Name: Trent Gruwell
Branch of Service: Indiana Army National Guard
Years Served: 15 years and counting (still serving)
Current Role in the Military: Human Resources Specialist
(previous roles include HVAC Mechanic, Recruiter/Recruit Cadre, and Recruit Sustainment Program (RSP) Instructor)
Stationed: Indianapolis, IN
(previously stationed in Bedford and Camp Atterbury in Edinburgh)
Current Role at Kattsafe: Estimator
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What inspired you to join the military?
"I was looking for a challenge that would push me out of my comfort zone and teach me real-world leadership. The chance to serve my country while earning my degree and gaining technical skills was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up."
How often are you called away for training or duty, and what does that typically involve?
"The Indiana Army National Guard typically requires one weekend a month and 15 days of annual training, usually during the summer."
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What is one moment from your service that stands out to you?
"Serving as a Recruit Sustainment Program (RSP) instructor, where I helped younger soldiers get acclimated to military standards and prepared them before they left for Basic Combat Training"
What advice did you find yourself giving recruits most often before they left for Basic?
"I always told recruits to keep an open mind, listen, and be willing to learn. Basic Training isn’t easy, but take it one day at a time, and don’t get discouraged when things get tough."
How has your military experience shaped who you are or how you approach your work now?
"My service taught me to show up consistently, take complete ownership of my responsibilities, and always prioritize the success of the team."
What’s one piece of military training or habit you still can’t shake?
"I still can’t shake the habit of showing up 15 to 20 minutes early to absolutely everything. The military strictly enforces the rule that if you aren’t early for formation, you’re late."
What advice would you give to a veteran entering the civilian workforce?
"Don’t sell yourself short when it comes to the skills you gained in the military. Leadership, accountability, and problem-solving go a long way in the civilian workforce. Be open to new opportunities, and don’t be afraid to try something different."
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What did you miss most from home while you were serving?
"Definitely spending time with my family and being part of the everyday routine. You really miss the little things, like family dinners and just being home."
What’s the best (or worst) meal you had while serving?
"Most of the MREs I had during Basic Training would probably make the list for worst meals. We didn’t always have time to heat them up, so I ate plenty of them cold or at room temperature."
What did you learn from your time in the service that still sticks with you today?
"The most lasting lesson I took from the service is that success starts with discipline: being consistent, reliable, and always in the right place, at the right time, in the right uniform."
What does Veterans Day mean to you?
To me, Veterans Day is a quiet reminder of the real cost of service. It’s about honoring the incredible sacrifices made behind the scenes, especially the long stretches of time away from family and the missed holidays, birthdays, and milestones that veterans gave up to serve our country.
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Photos
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