From Airborne Intelligence to Entrepreneur: How My Military Training Launched My Business Success

As a former 1A8X2 Airborne Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance operator in the US Air Force, I learned a wealth of valuable skills that have served me well in my entrepreneurial endeavors. From my days in basic training to my advanced skills training, I gained a deep understanding of the importance of discipline, hard work, and the ability to adapt to change.

Basic training was a fun-filled, yet challenging experience that taught me the importance of perseverance and teamwork. The physical and mental challenges I faced during my time in basic training helped me build a strong foundation for the skills I would need in my future endeavors.

In my advanced skills training, I learned about the various technologies used in airborne intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance, and how to operate them effectively. I honed my analytical and critical thinking skills, which have been invaluable in my entrepreneurial journey. The job I learned was to collect and analyze data, and to make decisions based on that data in real-time, under challenging circumstances.

These skills have translated directly to my entrepreneurial pursuits. For example, in my business, I collect and analyze data on consumer trends and market conditions, and then make decisions on how to adjust my business strategy accordingly. My ability to make decisions quickly and effectively, even under pressure, has been a key factor in my business success.

Here are the top 5 skills I received in my military job that have been critical in my entrepreneurial success:

  1. Analytical and critical thinking: My military training taught me how to analyze data and make informed decisions based on that data. This has been an essential skill in my business, as I constantly analyze data to make informed decisions on how to grow my business.

  2. Problem-solving skills: The ability to solve problems quickly and effectively is critical in the military, and it has been no different in my entrepreneurial journey. My military training taught me how to identify problems and come up with creative solutions, which has been invaluable in my business.

  3. Discipline: The discipline I learned in the military has been key in my business success. I have been able to stick to my business plan, even when things get tough, and that has been critical in my success.

  4. Time management: In the military, you learn the importance of time management, as every moment counts. This skill has been critical in my business, as I have been able to prioritize tasks and allocate my time effectively to maximize my productivity.

  5. Adaptability: The military teaches you how to adapt to changing circumstances, and this has been an invaluable skill in my entrepreneurial journey. In my business, I have been able to adapt to changes in the market and adjust my business strategy accordingly.

In conclusion, I highly recommend that veterans consider starting their own businesses, as the skills they learned in the military can be a valuable asset in the entrepreneurial world. I am proud to say that I have successfully transitioned my military skills into a successful business, and I encourage all veterans to consider doing the same.

To support veterans in their entrepreneurial pursuits, I highly recommend signing up with Veterans First Watch. This organization provides resources and support to help veterans succeed in their businesses. I have found their resources to be invaluable in my business, and I know that they can help other veterans as well. With their help, I am succeeding in the new business I created, and I know that other veterans can do the same.