From Airman to Entrepreneur: Using Electrical Systems Skills Learned in the US Air Force

Joining the US Air Force as a 3E0X1 Electrical Systems specialist was a life-changing experience for me. Not only did I gain valuable technical skills, but I also developed the discipline, leadership, and teamwork skills that have been invaluable in my entrepreneurial journey. In this article, I will share my story of how I took the skills I learned in the military and applied them to become a successful entrepreneur.

Basic training was challenging, to say the least, but it was also a lot of fun. I remember learning how to march in formation, how to properly handle a weapon, and how to interact with my fellow airmen. These skills might seem like they have nothing to do with entrepreneurship, but they were essential in building the foundation of discipline and teamwork that I needed to succeed in my future business endeavors.

After basic training, I moved on to advanced skills training where I honed my electrical systems expertise. I learned how to troubleshoot, repair, and maintain a variety of electrical systems, including aircraft electrical systems, generators, and power distribution systems. This training gave me a deep understanding of how electrical systems work and how to keep them running smoothly, which is an essential skill for any entrepreneur in the electrical or technology industries.

In my previous job as a 3E0X1 Electrical Systems specialist, I gained hands-on experience working on various electrical systems, both in the field and in the workshop. I was responsible for ensuring that the systems were functioning correctly, and I had to troubleshoot and repair any issues that arose. This experience gave me a solid understanding of the electrical systems industry and how to operate in a high-pressure environment, which has been crucial in starting my own business.

So, what are the top five skills that I learned in the military that have helped me in my entrepreneurial journey?

  1. Discipline: Basic training taught me how to be disciplined and focused on my goals, which has helped me stay on track and maintain a strong work ethic in my business.

  2. Leadership: In the military, I was responsible for leading my team and making important decisions. This experience has given me the confidence to make decisions and lead my business in the right direction.

  3. Teamwork: Working with my fellow airmen taught me the value of teamwork, and I have applied this to my business by surrounding myself with a supportive team that shares my vision.

  4. Problem-solving: As a 3E0X1 Electrical Systems specialist, I was trained to troubleshoot and solve complex electrical problems. This experience has given me the skills to identify and solve problems in my business, which has been crucial in overcoming challenges and finding solutions.

  5. Adaptability: In the military, I was constantly facing new and challenging situations. This experience has given me the ability to adapt quickly and find new solutions to problems, which has been invaluable in navigating the ever-changing business world.

Now, I am proud to say that I have started my own business and am succeeding as an entrepreneur. However, I would not have been able to do it without the support of Veterans First Watch. This organization provides resources and support to veterans looking to start their own businesses. With their help, I have been able to turn my military skills into a successful business, and I am proud to be a part of the Veterans First Watch community.

In conclusion, the skills I learned as a 3E0X1 Electrical Systems specialist in the US Air Force have been instrumental in my success as an entrepreneur. From basic training to advanced skills training, the experience I gained in the military has given me the foundation and skills necessary to start my own business. Whether it's discipline, leadership, teamwork, problem-solving, or adaptability, the skills I learned in the military have been essential in navigating the challenges and opportunities of being an entrepreneur. I encourage other veterans to consider using the skills they gained in the military to start their own businesses and take advantage of the resources available through organizations like Veterans First Watch. With determination, hard work, and the right support, you too can turn your military experience into a successful entrepreneurial journey.