Brandon Villanueva isn’t someone who waits around for things to happen. At 20, he walked into an Army recruitment office with a stack of documents and a challenge: “I want to join. I can pass the PT and ASVAB right now if you’d like.” That same can-do spirit has carried him through more than seven years of active-duty service, a transition to civilian life, and a bachelor’s degree from American Military University (AMU).Today, Brandon is the Deputy Special Security Officer for a Naval unit in Virginia Beach, where he lives with his wife and their two dogs. He’s also a…
Author: USVM
If you’re a military veteran thinking about your next chapter, veteran hiring events can be a great way to jump-start your civilian career. These events—whether virtual or in person—are more than just job fairs. They’re a chance to connect with employers who understand the value of your military experience and are actively seeking veterans to join their teams.So, what exactly should you expect from a veteran hiring event—and how can you walk away with more than just a few business cards? Let’s break it down.What Are Veteran Hiring Events?Veteran hiring events are career fairs and networking opportunities specifically tailored for…
Hiring veterans is more than just good business—it’s a strategic advantage. Veterans bring a wealth of skills, discipline, leadership, and a team-oriented mindset to the workplace. But if you’re hoping to attract qualified candidates from the military community, it all starts with one key step: the job description.Many employers don’t realize that a few simple tweaks to a job posting can make a big difference in whether or not a veteran sees your opportunity as a good fit. Here’s how to write a job description that speaks directly to veterans—and shows your company is serious about welcoming their talent. Start…
When Katie Burtch met her husband, Nick, she had no idea their love story would unfold across continents, deployments, and duty stations. Over the next two decades, Katie learned to navigate life as a military spouse — relocating every two to four years, raising three kids, and putting her own dreams on hold to keep her family moving forward.But when Nick transferred his GI Bill benefits to Katie, everything changed. Encouraged by his positive experience with American Military University (AMU), Katie enrolled and found a new path forward — one that could move her forward too.A Life Built on AdaptabilityKatie’s…
The world of sports has long been a place where discipline, strategy, and resilience shine—qualities that many military veterans possess. Throughout history, numerous athletes and sports figures have not only served their countries in the military but also excelled in their respective sports. Their journeys, filled with both battlefield heroics and athletic triumphs, serve as a testament to the unbreakable spirit of those who have served. Here, we highlight some of the most famous military veterans in sports and their incredible stories.Ted Williams – Baseball’s Fighter Pilot Boston Red Sox legend Ted Williams is regarded as one of the greatest…
Transitioning from military service to the civilian workforce can be both exciting and challenging—whether you’re 25 or 55. One of the biggest hurdles veterans often face is mastering the job interview. It’s a different kind of mission, but with the right preparation and mindset, you can absolutely nail it.Here are some practical and conversational tips to help veterans of all ages succeed in their next job interview: Translate Your Military ExperienceYou’ve done some amazing things in uniform—but civilian employers might not understand terms like “MOS,” “TDY,” or “squad leader.” Before the interview, take time to translate your experience into plain…
Managing multiple responsibilities is part of the daily grind as a small business owner. Balancing tasks such as operations, customer service, marketing and finances can feel overwhelming. Effective time management is crucial for keeping your business afloat and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Here are some practical tips to help entrepreneurs manage their time efficiently without burning out. Block Out TimeTime blocking is an effective strategy for entrepreneurs trying to juggle numerous responsibilities. This method involves scheduling specific time blocks throughout the day to focus solely on one task or project. For instance, dedicate mornings to strategic work, such as product…
In an unexpected move that’s stirring up conversation across both Silicon Valley and military circles, four high-powered tech executives have officially enlisted in the U.S. Army—but there’s a twist: they’re skipping boot camp. Yes, you read that right. These aren’t your average recruits. Thanks to a unique direct commissioning program typically reserved for professionals with specialized skills—like doctors, lawyers, and cyber experts—these tech leaders are joining the Army’s ranks as officers, no basic training required. Here’s what’s behind the headlines and why this unconventional enlistment is raising eyebrows and interest: Who Are These Executives? While names are still under wraps…
If you’ve never been to a business expo before, it might sound a little overwhelming—hundreds of booths, busy professionals, speakers, and stacks of business cards flying around. But here’s the thing: business expos are one of the best opportunities out there to grow your network, discover new products or services, and get your brand in front of the right people. Whether you’re attending or exhibiting, a well-planned expo visit can make a serious impact on your business.So, What Is a Business Expo?At its core, a business expo, including the Veterans in Business Network (VIBN), is an organized event that brings…
Long-distance relationships pose challenges for many military couples. Being apart from your loved one can create anxiety, sadness and even trust issues. However, with shared expectations and a commitment to planning, you and your partner can keep your relationship strong despite the distance. Military OneSource shares these tips:Plan AheadThe best time to talk about how you will stay connected during your geographic separation is while you are still together. First and foremost, you’ll want to set expectations while preparing for the unknown. Figure out what works best for you as a couple—phone calls, video chats or email. A combination of…
