Transitioning from military service to civilian life is a monumental shift, and for many veterans, entrepreneurship offers a promising path forward. It’s an opportunity to leverage discipline, leadership and resilience honed in service while creating a fulfilling career and achieving personal goals. For Jason Stucky, a Navy veteran, this journey led to owning two Color Me Mine franchises in Geneva and Glenview, Illinois—paint-your-own-pottery studios where creativity meets community.
A Passion Beyond Service
Stucky’s path to entrepreneurship began with a longing for balance. After four years in the Navy, serving as an Aircraft Maintenance Administration (AZ) specialist stationed in California and Japan, he transitioned to the corporate world. Yet, after over a decade, he found himself craving more time with his family. This desire prompted him to step away from the corporate grind and embrace his role as a stay-at-home dad while exploring new career possibilities.
This search for the next chapter led Stucky to Color Me Mine, where he started as a manager. “I was drawn to the company because of its family-friendly atmosphere,” Stucky explains. “Taking my kids to paint pottery sparked something in me. With my previous experience in ceramics and my love for art, it just seemed like the right fit.”
When the opportunity arose to purchase the studio he managed, Stucky made the leap to franchise ownership.
Challenges of Entrepreneurship
Like many new business owners, Stucky faced the initial challenges of running his studio head-on. “At first, I felt like I had to do everything myself,” he recalls. The pressure to succeed and the weight of responsibility were immense.
However, as he navigated the demands of entrepreneurship, Stucky realized the importance of building a reliable team and learning to delegate. “Hiring and training a good team allowed me to step back and focus on the bigger picture,” he says.
This approach supported the growth of his business and helped Stucky achieve the work-life balance he sought.
Expanding the Vision
Armed with lessons from his first studio, Stucky went on to open a second location. Now, with trusted leadership teams managing day-to-day operations, he enjoys the flexibility to work on his terms while spending quality time with his family.
For Stucky, the support provided by franchising has been invaluable. “Our home office handles so much of the business side, from marketing to operational guidance. That support has made the process less daunting and more manageable.”
Advice for Veteran Entrepreneurs
Stucky believes franchising is an excellent avenue for veterans transitioning to civilian life. “Franchising gives you a framework and a support system, which makes starting and running a business less intimidating,” he shares.
For veterans considering entrepreneurship, Stucky emphasizes the importance of leveraging transferable skills like discipline, adaptability and leadership—qualities ingrained through military service.
“Find a business that aligns with your passion and values,” he advises. “And don’t be afraid to ask for help. Success comes from building the right team and trusting the process.”
A Family-Centered Mission
Stucky’s unwavering commitment to his family is at the heart of his story. By prioritizing balance and embracing a hands-off approach to business, he’s created a career that complements his personal life—a goal many veterans share as they transition to civilian jobs.
Stucky’s journey from the Navy to being a franchise owner exemplifies the resilience and adaptability that define successful entrepreneurs. Through hard work, a willingness to learn and a passion for his craft, Stucky has turned his Color Me Mine studios into thriving spaces for creativity and connection—all while staying true to the values that matter most.
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