03/03/2024
The impact of military life is undeniably transformative! From enlistment to transitions out of uniform or duty stations, each step signifies a profound change. However, it wasn't until my involvement in the inaugural in Residence Bunker Labs Washington DC that I realized life was poised for another significant shift, even years into my entrepreneurial journey. Now, witnessing the merger of the Institute for and Military Families - IVMF with Bunker Labs and experiencing the incredible Military Entrepreneurship Military Entrepreneurship Forum they hosted in Austin, Texas, on Feb. 28th sponsored by , it's evident how profoundly life-changing these moments can be for attendees. Even days later, I find myself still processing the wealth of knowledge, connections, and genuine camaraderie that filled every interaction.
In a room brimming with veterans, there's an innate drive to outdo one another in service to others, resulting in a collective sense of fulfillment. At the beautiful Capital Factory, the atmosphere was set to do just that, beginning with a furnace-side chat with the incredible duo, Meg Vrabel and Joseph Kopser, whose wisdom and light laughter filled the room. Following that, although Fiserv initially invited only True Pop, thanks to Nanci Gandy, CMP, and Meg Hendricks, PHR, I had the honor of joining an exceptional panel discussion alongside two remarkable individuals, Alan Apple and Brendan Mullen. The afternoon breakout sessions and networking breaks were equally rewarding, with every encounter and conversation leaving a lasting impression.
The roundtable discussion on Day Two, led by Misty Stutsman Fox and Rosalinda Vasquez Maury, was awe-inspiring. Every participant brought valuable insights, making each seat at the table a treasure trove of wisdom. As my newfound friend Patty Morgan aptly puts it, "combined forces" truly elevate these experiences to new heights. More connections with great people to collaborate on ideas and projects that will not only benefit the veteran entrepreneurship family but also contribute positively to the world! Special thanks to those who handled the logistics - travel, lodging, love, and food - Nanci Gandy, CMP, Tiffany Jones, Mikhala Dougher, and Michael Parks, who ensured we all looked our best.
Looking forward to cultivating new connections with Corinna Balderramos Robinson, PhD, MPP, MSCJA, Carol (CJ) Miller [She/Her], Kristi Alderson (Certified SDVOSB), Pallavi Pande, Paul O'Brien, Jimi Threet, Lola Howard, Lauren Hope, Monique Gibson, Mellissa Tong, Ruben Cantu, Shana Manzano, Colleen Riddick, Kris Vandenberg, Monica Perras, eMBA, M.S., Trevor Otts