Ryan Novotny joins the VET S.O.S. Network to dive into how veterans can successfully navigate military-to-civilian transition through professional organizations like the Society of American Military Engineers (SAME).

A retired U.S. Air Force Colonel and senior construction executive, Ryan shares firsthand insight into SAME’s Career Transition Workshop (CTW)—a program designed to prepare veterans for civilian careers through mentorship, resume development, interview preparation, and direct employer access.

In this episode, we explore:
• Why professional organizations are critical to veteran career success
• How SAME’s Career Transition Workshop prepares veterans beyond TAP
• Translating military leadership into civilian-ready skills
• The importance of mentorship and long-term professional networks

Whether you're navigating military transition, pursuing education, or searching for tools to strengthen your next chapter, this conversation gives you clear, actionable steps you can use today.

Ryan Novotny is a retired U.S. Air Force Colonel and registered professional engineer with over 27 years of leadership experience. He currently serves as a Senior Project Executive with Gilbane Building Company and is a passionate advocate for veteran mentorship, career development, and transition success.

The VET S.O.S. Network connects veterans, spouses, and service members with real resources and real people who want to see you thrive.

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On this episode of the VET S.O.S. Veteran Educational Resources Spotlight, host Shawn Welsh welcomes Dan Roby, Vice President of Brand Expansion and Business Development at American Military University (AMU) and retired Chief Master Sergeant, U.S. Air Force.

Dan discusses AMU’s 20-year legacy of serving military members, veterans, and their families through affordable, flexible, and mission-driven education. Learn how AMU has become a trusted partner for those who serve by offering:

• Tuition at the military TA level and grants for veterans and dependents

• Monthly course start dates to fit unpredictable schedules

• No-cost textbooks or tech fees

• Transfer credit for prior military experience

• Comprehensive mental health and career services programs

• Community engagement and veteran-focused outreach

AMU doesn’t just talk about being “military friendly”—they live it. Their commitment to the military community extends far beyond the classroom, helping service members build careers, strengthen families, and achieve lasting success.

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On this episode of the VET S.O.S. Veteran Educational Resources Spotlight, host Shawn Welsh welcomes Eric Kready, retired U.S. Army Military Police Officer and Director on the ASIS International Professional Certification Board. Eric shares the mission behind Operation Career Change, a suite of free transition tools that help veterans and first responders move into the private sector security industry.

Listeners will gain valuable insight into:

• The three free tools of Operation Career Change

• Translating military achievements into civilian-ready language

• How certifications like the CPP, PSP, and APP give veterans a competitive edge

• Scholarship programs for veterans through ASIS and the COOL initiative

• The importance of building professional networks before leaving service

Whether you’re just starting your transition or already exploring a career in security, Eric’s advice will help you bridge the gap between military service and civilian success.

💡 Don’t Drown in the Sea of Transition—Grab the VET S.O.S. Lifeline!

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On this episode of the VET S.O.S. Network’s Veteran Educational Resources Spotlight, host Shawn Welsh welcomes Stephan Murphy, Director of Georgetown University’s Military and Veteran Resource Center (MAVRC).

Stephan shares his journey from the U.S. Army to higher education leadership, revealing how Georgetown empowers its more than 1,500 military-connected students through intentional programming, academic excellence, and a strong community network.

Learn how Georgetown’s commitment to veterans includes Yellow Ribbon participation, dynamic student organizations, career readiness programs, and collaborations that extend well beyond the classroom. Stephan also discusses the university’s data-driven approach to student engagement and the power of mentorship in building the next generation of veteran leaders.

If you’re a veteran, service member, or military spouse considering higher education, this episode provides invaluable insight into what makes Georgetown a top choice for military-connected learners.

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Join host Dr. Hira on the VET S.O.S. Network’s Veteran Educational Resources Spotlight as she interviews Jon Baldessari, Director of the Veterans Resource Center at the University of Miami. Jon shares the powerful story behind the creation of the VRC and its mission to empower more than 600 veterans and military-connected students pursuing higher education.

From the Yellow Ribbon Program to the Veteran Students Organization and community events like the Military and Veteran Resource Expo, Jon highlights how the university builds bridges between education, service, and post-graduation success. Listeners will gain valuable insights into how universities can design inclusive spaces that celebrate, support, and strengthen the military community.

This episode is a must-listen for veterans, service members, spouses, and educators committed to fostering successful transitions from the military to the classroom and beyond.

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In this episode of the VET S.O.S. Network’s Veteran Educational Resources Spotlight, Dr. Hira welcomes Nikki Harrison from the Military Child Education Coalition (MCEC)—a true advocate for military-connected families. Nikki shares her story of resilience growing up as a military child, raising two sons while navigating life as a Marine Corps spouse, and now empowering others through MCEC’s mission.

Discover how MCEC’s programs—ranging from parent support webinars and literacy training to professional development for educators—help ensure every military-connected child is ready for work, college, and life. Nikki also discusses the growing influence of AI in education and how families can adapt in this evolving landscape.

Listeners will gain valuable advice on navigating transitions, building community after military life, and finding balance between family, education, and service.

🎙 VET S.O.S. Network continues its mission to spotlight organizations making a lasting difference for veterans, service members, and military families.
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UMSL’s Veterans Center Manager Martina Meng—first‑gen American, college grad, and Missouri Army National Guard sergeant—explains how her team delivers veteran‑inclusive support that actually moves the needle: Guard/State TA plus GI Bill walkthroughs, “start 60 days before class” timing, and a community space that keeps you connected (and enrolled). She also shares the center’s growth and the inside story of returning to improve the very office she once used as a student.

Key takeaways:

• What “veteran‑inclusive” means beyond “veteran‑friendly.”

• One‑on‑one benefits sessions and end‑to‑end help each term.

• Why belonging beats burnout for retention.

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In this episode of the VET S.O.S. Veteran Educational Resources Spotlight, host Dr. Hira speaks with Mary Bier, MBA, President & CEO of the Military Child Education Coalition (MCEC), about the critical work being done to support military-connected children.

Mary shares her personal experiences as a military spouse and parent, her professional advocacy journey, and MCEC’s innovative programs that prepare students for college, career, and life success. From peer mentoring through Student 2 Student (S2S) to leadership development and scholarships, this conversation sheds light on how communities and schools can uplift military families.

Listeners will also learn about the Heroic Hearts Scholarship, opportunities at the Francis Hesselbein Student Leadership Program, and upcoming Global Training Summits designed to equip educators and student leaders.

This episode is a must-listen for educators, parents, and anyone who wants to better understand and support the unique challenges of military children.

Follow and subscribe to VET S.O.S. for more resources, stories, and insights to help veterans and their families thrive.

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Host Dr. Hira welcomes Kittie Clark, Military Services Coordinator at Augusta Technical College, to the VET S.O.S. Veteran Educational Resources Spotlight. With a background in process improvement and a passion for military student success, Kittie shares how Augusta Tech supports over 700 military-affiliated students each semester through:

• A Military Service Center offering VA benefits assistance and a community space

• In-demand programs like cybersecurity and healthcare with hands-on training

• Partnerships with Fort Gordon’s Army Cyber Center of Excellence for credit transfers

• Student Veterans of America chapter activities and national conference participation

• Efforts to expand credit for prior learning and build more career pathways

Whether you’re an active duty member, veteran, spouse, or dependent, this episode offers practical guidance for navigating education, maximizing benefits, and building a strong career foundation.

Listen now and discover how Augusta Tech is helping the military-connected community thrive in higher education and beyond.

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On this episode of the VET S.O.S. Veteran Educational Resources Spotlight, Dr. Hira speaks with Edward Lewis, Vice President of Operations at the Maritime Institute and retired U.S. Coast Guard Master Chief.

Edward explains how veterans with maritime backgrounds can move directly into well-paying civilian roles without starting over—thanks to gap training programs, funding options, and strong industry networks. Learn about the 28-day boot camp program that equips veterans to earn their Merchant Mariner Credential, and hear real success stories from graduates working across the globe.

Whether you’re interested in sailing internationally, working in ports, or starting a shore-based maritime career, this episode is packed with practical tips, funding insights, and career strategies for veterans.
#VeteranTransition #MaritimeIndustry #VeteranEmployment #MerchantMarinerCareer #MilitaryToCivilian #CareerReadiness #GIbillBenefits #VeteranTraining #VeteranSuccessStories #SkillBridgeOpportunities #VETSOS #GrabTheLifeline