Author: USVM

Bobby Moore’s path to entrepreneurship didn’t begin in a boardroom or business seminar—it started in the inner city of Chicago, shaped by family, service and a deep-rooted belief in hard work. Early Foundations Moore spent his early years in Chicago before his parents moved the family to the suburbs when he was 16—a shift he describes as pivotal. “It gave us a chance for a better future at a young age,” he recalls. Military service was never a question for him; it was an expectation he welcomed. “Joining was more than just serving—it was a family tradition,” he says. With…

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At two solar projects in Grimes and Falls Counties in Texas, a unique partnership is demonstrating how renewable-energy infrastructure can support more than just power generation. Through a collaboration between Enel North America and Hives for Heroes, designated areas of these solar sites are now home to apiaries that provide training, connection and purpose for veterans and first responders—while simultaneously enhancing biodiversity. Shared Purpose For Enel North America, the idea grew out of recognizing how underutilized solar-site acreage could serve a broader mission. “Since the peripheral areas of our solar sites make an ideal habitat for pollinators, it was a…

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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…

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Every Veteran deserves more than just a roof over their head; they deserve a place where they truly belong. Today, America’s Warrior Partnership (AWP) and Patriots and Paws are proud to announce a heartfelt partnership dedicated to turning empty houses into homes and weary spirits into resilient leaders. For many Veterans transitioning from the battlefield to civilian life, the struggle is twofold: the physical challenge of starting over, and the quiet, internal battle with the invisible wounds of service. By combining their strengths, these two staples are ensuring no warrior must walk that path alone.“ Know a Vet? Tell a…

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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…

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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…

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For veterans pursuing education in 2026, a four-year degree is no longer the only—or always the most practical—path forward. Certificate programs, industry-recognized credentials and microcredentials have become increasingly visible across higher education and workforce training. For veterans balancing employment, family responsibilities or health considerations, these shorter programs offer a focused, measurable way to translate learning into civilian opportunities.Rather than replacing traditional degrees, certificates and microcredentials expand the range of options available to student veterans navigating post-service transitions.Focused SkillsCertificate and microcredential programs are designed to deliver specific, job-aligned skills in a condensed timeframe. Many can be completed in months rather than…

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Veterans transitioning from military service to civilian life often seek higher education to enhance their career prospects. Online degree programs offer flexibility and accessibility, making them an excellent choice for veterans balancing work, family and education. Here, we explore some of the top online degree programs tailored for veterans, their benefits, and why these institutions stand out. Additionally, we’ll highlight whether they accept the Post-9/11 GI Bill, participate in the Yellow Ribbon Program and the types of degrees offered.American Military UniversityAmerican Military University (AMU) is an online, military-friendly university that is part of the American Public University System (APUS). It’s…

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When Liz Meyers talks about the Dogtopia Foundation, she returns to a simple belief: dogs have the power to change lives. That philosophy has shaped Dogtopia since its earliest days as a dog daycare, boarding and spa franchise, and it now serves as the foundation for a nationwide movement supporting veterans, students and adults with autism. At the center of that work is a growing commitment to providing highly trained service dogs to veterans—an effort that has already reached a significant milestone. Community Milestone This year, the Dogtopia Foundation surpassed $5 million raised. For Meyers, the number is more than…

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As service members prepare to transition from military service to civilian careers, large employers play an increasingly influential role in shaping post-service opportunities. Amazon has positioned itself as one of the most visible corporate partners supporting the veteran community through structured fellowships, training programs and long-term career development pathways.Through initiatives such as its Military Fellowship and participation in the DoD’s SkillBridge program, Amazon connects military experience with roles across technology, logistics, operations and leadership functions throughout its global workforce.Hiring CommitmentAmazon employs tens of thousands of veterans and military spouses across its businesses. In 2021, the company publicly committed to hiring…

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