How does someone juggle running a business, teaching at two universities, and working full-time as a Director of Enterprise Applications? In this episode, Cam and Otis sit down with Dr. Tresia Eaves—Air Force veteran, author, adjunct professor, and founder of Variant Enterprises—to explore her remarkable journey from military service to becoming a recognized leader in technology consulting and project management.
"You are only limited by yourself and the limitations you put on yourself," Dr. Eaves explains, sharing how she's managed to build a successful consulting business while teaching the next generation of business leaders and leading IT initiatives at Texas A&M University, Kingsville. From discussing her transition from military software development to civilian project management, to revealing her upcoming work on "The Platinum Rule" (treating others as THEY want to be treated, not as you want to be treated), this conversation offers valuable insights for anyone navigating multiple professional roles.
What makes this episode particularly valuable is Dr. Eaves' practical approach to time management, her emphasis on building supportive teams, and her commitment to giving back through education. Whether you're a veteran transitioning to civilian work, an entrepreneur balancing multiple ventures, or a leader interested in project management excellence, Dr. Eaves' story provides a roadmap for achieving success without putting limitations on yourself.
More About Tresia:
Dr. Tresia Eaves has over 30 years of technology consulting and information technology leadership experience. She is also an author, instructor, public speaker, adjunct professor, and proud veteran of the US Air Force. She established her company, Variant Enterprises, LLC, in 2011 and has her Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned and HUBZone Small Business certifications through SBA.gov. She also has her Texas VetHUB certification. She currently serves as the Director of Enterprise Applications for Texas A&M University, Kingsville. She recently worked as a subcontractor for the US Forest Service as a Senior Program Manager in the Office of the Chief Technology Officer (2023- 2025). She earned her doctorate in Information Science from the University of North Texas. She also has a bachelor’s degree in computer science from Baylor University and a master’s in organizational Behavior from the University of Oklahoma. Dr. Eaves is a published author with her book, “Above and Beyond: The Secrets of Outstanding Project Leadership,” published in 2014 by IIL, and has published multiple other articles in professional and academic journals. Her latest effort is focused on educating professionals on “The Platinum Rule,” and a book is planned for 2027. She resides in Rockport, Texas, with her family.
Chapter Times and Titles:
Introduction: The Multi-Hyphenate Leader [00:00 - 05:00]
Welcome and meet Dr. Tresia Eaves
Air Force veteran, author, professor, and business owner
Setting the stage: How does she do it all?
"I'm a Project Manager at Heart" [05:00 - 13:30]
Managing schedule, family, and multiple professional roles
Teaching classes since 2021
The advantage of experience and preparation
Founding Variant Enterprises in 2011
From Air Force to Civilian Project Management [13:30 - 22:45]
Military background in software development and testing
The transition challenge: translating military experience
Learning that "all this software development stuff is called project management."
Getting certified and launching a consulting career
"You Are Only Limited by Yourself" [22:45 - 32:00]
Breaking through self-imposed limitations
The importance of supportive teams
Working with Texas A&M University, Kingsville
The EBV (Entrepreneurial Bootcamp for Veterans) program at Texas A&M College Station
The Platinum Rule: A New Approach to Leadership [32:0