Transitioning from military service to civilian life can feel daunting. Many veterans wonder how to translate their leadership, discipline, and specialized skills into a new career. The experiences of American Military (AMU) students show that education can be the bridge between service and civilian success. By choosing programs tailored to military needs and drawing on a supportive community, veterans are forging new paths that honor their service and expand their horizons.Finding Purpose and CommunityFor Thyshown Esperience, a Marine Corps veteran turned deputy sheriff, the pivotal moment was discovering a program that connected his diverse experiences “from military to civilian into…
Author: USVM
Few names embody discipline and leadership like Jocko Willink. The retired Navy SEAL commander turned bestselling author, entrepreneur and podcaster has built an empire on principles forged in the chaos of combat. In an exclusive conversation with Mona Lisa Faris, president and publisher of U.S. Veterans Magazine, Willink opened up about his extraordinary journey—from leading elite SEAL Teams on the battlefield to leading companies and communities across the country.For two decades, Willink commanded some of the most elite units in the U.S. military, operating in the world’s most demanding environments. Today, he channels those lessons into a new mission: helping…
The labor market is cooling from its red-hot pace, but the next wave of hiring is already visible. Based on federal projections and 2025 trend data, five sectors are expected to stand out for job growth in 2026: health care and social assistance; technology roles tied to AI and cybersecurity; clean energy and electric vehicles; construction and infrastructure; and advanced manufacturing, particularly in the semiconductor sector.Health Care is LeadingThe Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects health care and social assistance will drive the largest share of U.S. job gains this decade, propelled by an aging population and ongoing demand for…
If you’re a veteran with dreams of running your own business, you’ve already proven you have the discipline, dedication, and leadership skills to succeed. But let’s be real—getting the right funding to kickstart or expand your business can feel like navigating a minefield. Luckily, there are plenty of loan options out there tailored just for veterans, and we’re here to help you figure out how to secure the financing you need.Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of business loans, let’s acknowledge one simple fact: veterans are naturally built for business. The same qualities that help service members thrive—problem-solving, adaptability, teamwork—are…
As corporations and public-facing organizations confront heightened security threats, the UC Irvine Division of Continuing Education has launched a Executive Protection: Private Executive and Corporate Protective Operations certificate program, designed to prepare professionals to protect leaders, communities and critical assets in an increasingly complex risk environment.Recent attacks targeting senior corporate executives, along with increased security concerns across the country, have intensified demand for highly trained executive protection professionals. Organizations nationwide are seeking security leaders capable of anticipating threats, assessing risk and operating effectively in high-visibility, dynamic environments.UC Irvine’s executive protection certificate program was developed by retired U.S. Secret Service special…
In all honesty, becoming a certified veteran-owned or service-disabled veteran-owned business enterprise (VOBE/SDVOBE) is no walk in the park. There is documentation to submit and research to be completed. The process can seem overwhelming to any business owner; however, earning this certification can be immensely helpful to your business. If you have been considering certification but want to be prepared, here are some things you should know before taking the leap: Certification Opens Doors Becoming a certified business owner is more than just a label; it’s one of the best ways to grow your business. As a VOBE or an…
Military veterans have always had a unique way of leaving their mark on entertainment. Long before streaming platforms and red carpets, veterans were already bringing their discipline, resilience, and real-world experience to screens, stages, and studios—and audiences have been better for it ever since.For many veterans, entertainment becomes a natural next chapter after service. Storytelling, performance, and creative expression offer a way to process experiences while connecting with others. That authenticity often shows up in their work. When a veteran delivers a line on screen, writes a script, or produces a project, there’s often an added layer of depth—because they’ve…
When Air Force veteran Jim Dolan first launched a kayak with a few wounded service members on a quiet Texas lake in 2007, he wasn’t starting a movement—at least not intentionally. He and a handful of fellow kayak fishing enthusiasts simply wanted to give back to the military community they loved. Yet that day at Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio sparked something far larger: a nationwide effort that would eventually reach more than 85,000 veterans, first responders and family members.Their vision evolved into Heroes on the Water (HOW), a nonprofit built around three simple words: Paddle. Fish. Heal.…
When you’re part of the military community, financial planning often comes with a few extra layers—PCS moves, deployments, unexpected expenses, and big transitions can pop up with little notice. That’s why Navy Federal Credit Union’s newest offering feels especially timely. The 13-month Special Certificate is designed to help service members, veterans, and their families set aside money with intention, without sacrificing flexibility or peace of mind.This special certificate offers a 4.00% APY with just a $50 minimum deposit, delivering a return that’s more than twice the national average. Unlike a traditional savings account, it allows members to clearly separate everyday…
When Mark Gibble looks back on his journey from Soldier to educator, he sees a story rooted in adaptability and purpose. Today, as Assistant Dean at Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology (OSUIT), Gibble draws daily on lessons learned during his Army service—lessons that shaped not only his leadership style but also his commitment to serving those who have served.Service LessonsFor Gibble, the military’s most lasting impact wasn’t just about structure or rank—it was about people. “The military offers a unique and effective approach to developing soft skills,” he said. “Teamwork, problem-solving, empathy and commitment to shared goals are at…
