In this episode of the VET S.O.S. Podcast, we are honored to host Duane
Bygum, a 30-year veteran of the armed forces and current chair of the
Disaster Recovery Institute (DRI) Veterans Outreach Program. With a
distinguished career spanning the Marine Corps, Air Force, and law
enforcement, including his role as Deputy Chief of Police, Duane
provides a wealth of knowledge on the transition from military service
to civilian success.
Duane shares his personal journey, from his
groundbreaking work on the first biometric fingerprint identification
system in the Air Force to leading as Chief of Police for the U.S. Navy.
After retiring, he discovered the life-changing DRI scholarship
program, which helped him gain essential certifications in business
continuity, continuity of operations, and disaster preparedness—paving
the way for a thriving corporate career.
In this episode, Duane
delves into the practical and transformative benefits of the DRI
scholarship, a program designed to support veterans within three years
of separation or one year before separation. He highlights the
application process, eligibility criteria, and the value of in-person
learning experiences offered through DRI programs. He also emphasizes
the importance of mentorship, networking, and building skills that are
directly transferable to the civilian workforce.
🎧 Key Takeaways from This Episode:
- Duane’s unique insights into transitioning from the military to civilian life.
- The pivotal role of the DRI scholarship in acquiring certifications and securing a corporate career.
- Step-by-step guidance on applying for the DRI scholarship, including essay tips and volunteer activity requirements.
- Why in-person learning often outshines online courses in professional development.
- Advice for veterans on leveraging mentorship and support networks like VET S.O.S.
Actionable Insights:
- Learn how certifications in disaster recovery and business continuity can enhance your career prospects.
- Discover the importance of starting your transition early and preparing for civilian opportunities.
- Explore resources like VET S.O.S. for additional guidance and support.
Why Listen?
Whether you’re a veteran planning your next career move
or someone seeking to understand the challenges of military-to-civilian
transitions, this episode is packed with actionable advice,
inspirational stories, and valuable resources. Duane’s firsthand
experiences and passion for supporting veterans make this a must-listen
for anyone navigating this critical phase of life.
Join us to
uncover how the DRI scholarship and its programs can serve as a lifeline
for veterans stepping into new professional territories. Don’t miss
this empowering and informative conversation!
https://drii.org/
https://foundation.drii.org/what-we-do/veterans-outreach-program/
#vetsos #VeteranTransition #DRIScholarship #DisasterRecovery #BusinessContinuity #VetSupport