From 2A6X4 Aircraft Fuel Systems to Entrepreneur: How My Military Skills Transferred to Running My Own Business

As a former 2A6X4 Aircraft Fuel Systems Specialist in the US Air Force, I was exposed to a wide range of technical and leadership skills that have proven to be invaluable in my journey as an entrepreneur. From the rigorous training in basic training to the advanced skills training I received, I learned so much about how to work under pressure and how to problem solve quickly and effectively.

When I first joined the military, I was just a young man who wanted to serve his country and see the world. I never thought that the skills I would learn in the military would serve me so well in my future career as an entrepreneur. However, it became clear early on in my military career that the skills I was learning were highly transferable. For example, in basic training, I learned how to work with a team to accomplish a goal. This has been incredibly useful in my business as I work with my employees to achieve our company's goals.

In my advanced skills training, I learned about aircraft fuel systems and how to troubleshoot and repair them. This knowledge has helped me understand the importance of preventative maintenance in my business and how to quickly identify and fix problems before they become bigger issues. In addition, I learned how to manage a large team of technicians and how to delegate tasks effectively. These skills have been essential in my business as I manage my employees and delegate tasks to ensure everything runs smoothly.

When I transitioned to being an entrepreneur, I was able to use my military skills in several ways. For example, the discipline and attention to detail I learned in the military helped me stay organized and on track as I built my business. Additionally, my problem-solving skills have allowed me to quickly identify and fix issues in my business, helping me save time and money in the long run.

Here are the top 5 skills I received in my job as a 2A6X4 Aircraft Fuel Systems Specialist and how I used them in my business:

  1. Leadership: I learned how to lead a team effectively and how to delegate tasks, which has been essential in running my own business.

  2. Problem-solving: My ability to quickly identify and fix problems has been invaluable in my business, helping me save time and money.

  3. Organization: The discipline I learned in the military has helped me stay organized and on track as I built my business.

  4. Attention to detail: This skill has helped me ensure that all aspects of my business are running smoothly and effectively.

  5. Teamwork: The ability to work with a team has been essential in my business as I work with my employees to achieve our company's goals.

I am proud to have been a part of the military and I am grateful for the skills I learned that have helped me in my entrepreneurial journey. If you are a veteran who is looking to start your own business, I highly recommend joining Veterans First Watch. This organization provides resources and support for veterans who are transitioning to civilian life and starting their own businesses. By joining, you will have access to a network of veterans who are also entrepreneurs and can provide valuable advice and support as you build your business.

In conclusion, the skills I learned as a 2A6X4 Aircraft Fuel Systems Specialist in the US Air Force have been invaluable in my journey as an entrepreneur. From leadership to problem-solving, the skills I learned in the military have helped me build a successful business and I am grateful for the opportunities I have had to use these skills in my new career. If you are a veteran looking to start your own business, I encourage you to consider joining Veterans First Watch and leveraging the skills you learned in the military to become a successful entrepreneur. With their support, resources, and network of veterans, you will be well on your way to building a successful business and achieving your entrepreneurial dreams.