Using Military Training to Become an Entrepreneur: A Journey from MLRS Operations/Fire Direction Specialist to Business Owner

As a former Multiple Launch Rocket System Operations/Fire Direction Specialist (13P) in the US Army, I learned a wealth of valuable skills that I was able to use when transitioning into entrepreneurship. The journey from basic training to advanced skills training was a roller coaster of emotions and challenges, but I would not trade that experience for anything in the world. In this article, I will discuss how I was able to take my military training and apply it to my entrepreneurial pursuits, and the top 5 reasons why my training was a success in this new venture.

Basic training in the military is a unique experience that is both challenging and fun. The focus is on discipline, teamwork, and leadership, and these are skills that are transferable to the business world. The physical and mental toughness required in basic training prepared me for the challenges that lay ahead in my military career, and also helped me to build a strong foundation for my future entrepreneurial endeavors.

Once I completed basic training, I received advanced skills training as a MLRS Operations/Fire Direction Specialist. This training was even more challenging than basic training, but it was also extremely rewarding. I learned how to operate and maintain a multiple launch rocket system, and how to use fire direction and navigation equipment to ensure that rockets were accurately launched. This training required me to have a high level of attention to detail, critical thinking skills, and the ability to work well under pressure. All of these skills have proven to be valuable assets in my business endeavors.

One of the most important skills I learned in the military was the ability to work well under pressure. Running a business can be stressful, and there are times when you need to make quick decisions. The experience I gained from working in high-stress environments in the military has prepared me well for these situations. I am confident in my ability to handle whatever challenges come my way, and I know that I can make the right decisions in any given situation.

Another valuable skill I learned in the military was leadership. As a MLRS Operations/Fire Direction Specialist, I was responsible for leading a team of soldiers in executing complex missions. This experience taught me how to effectively communicate, delegate tasks, and motivate others to achieve a common goal. These leadership skills have been instrumental in my business ventures, where I am responsible for leading a team of employees to achieve our business goals.

The top 5 reasons why my military training was a success in entrepreneurship are:

  1. Discipline – My training taught me the importance of discipline, and how it is a key ingredient in achieving success in any endeavor.

  2. Attention to Detail – The experience I gained from working with complex equipment in high-stress environments has prepared me to pay close attention to detail in my business dealings.

  3. Critical Thinking – The challenges I faced in the military required me to think critically and make quick decisions, and these skills are essential in business.

  4. Teamwork – My training taught me the importance of teamwork and how to effectively lead a team to achieve a common goal.

  5. Leadership – I learned how to effectively communicate, delegate tasks, and motivate others to achieve a common goal, and these skills have been invaluable in my business ventures.

I am proud to have served in the military and to have used the skills I learned there to start my own business. I am now a successful entrepreneur and I have been able to help other veterans transition from military life to entrepreneurship through my involvement with Veterans First Watch. This organization is dedicated to helping veterans start and grow their businesses, and I highly recommend that any veteran who is interested in entrepreneurship sign up with Veterans First Watch.