Veterans Finding Purpose in a Post-Military Career Opportunities Through Franchising

Veterans possess the leadership, discipline and grit that make them uniquely equipped for the challenges and rewards of business ownership. At Franchise FastLane, we believe those strengths shouldn’t go untapped in a post-military career. That’s why, when working with veterans transitioning from service to entrepreneurship, we connect them with franchisors and ownership opportunities that align with their values, skills and goals.

Franchise FastLane provides the veteran resources, support, and guidance needed to navigate the franchise discovery process—from identifying the right brand to launching a thriving business. For many veterans, franchising offers a structured, purpose-driven path where they can continue to lead and make an impact in their communities.

In this blog, we’re proud to spotlight several veterans who have turned their military experience into successful post-military career opportunities in franchising. Their stories reflect what’s possible when the right people connect with the right opportunities and have the right team behind them.

The Goddard Family — Southern Steer Butcher

Brothers Jacob and Justin Goddard are both Air Force veterans who now help lead operations at their family’s Southern Steer Butcher franchise in Orlando. Justin served nine years on Active Duty, six as military police and three in aircraft maintenance, while Jacob spent six years in the Air National Guard working on the ejection systems of F-15 fighter jets. After their service, both brothers joined the family business, bringing with them the discipline, structure and leadership experience they gained in the military.

For Justin, the Air Force core values of integrity, service and excellence continue to shape his approach to business. “Being a veteran brings me a sense of pride that I’ve done more than the average person,” he said. Jacob echoes that sentiment, emphasizing how military training helped him stay calm under pressure and lead with intention. “You learn to work in high-stress environments and adapt quickly. In the butcher shop, that translates to delivering the best quality product and experience for our guests.”

While their parents are the owners of the Southern Steer Butcher franchise, where they serve as Store Managers, the brothers agree that franchising can be a strong post-military career for veterans thanks to the structure and systems it provides.

“Military members are resilient,” Jacob said. “They’ve learned structure and teamwork. With the right guidance, franchising can be a rewarding next chapter.” His advice to other veterans? “It comes with a plate full of responsibilities, but once you find your rhythm, the hard work pays off.”

Their journey highlights how post military career opportunities in franchising can build on military values of teamwork, resilience and excellence.

Dennis Klein — Hallmark Homecare

Dennis Klein served in the U.S. Army from 1990 to 1994, stationed in Germany and deployed to the Persian Gulf in 1991 as a Patriot Missile Crew Member. After active duty, he continued serving in the Michigan National Guard until 1998, where he participated in security operations for the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta, completed jungle training in Panama, and took part in U.S.-NATO exercises across Europe. That global experience—and the lessons in leadership, structure and resilience that came with it—helped shape the business owner he would later become.

After leaving the military, Dennis used the GI Bill to pursue a college degree and built a successful career in corporate finance, eventually becoming a CFO. But the desire to own something of his own never went away. “I had spent years supporting other business owners,” he said. “I realized it was time to build something for myself.” That entrepreneurial mindset led him to Hallmark Homecare, where the unique caregiver referral model and mission-driven work of keeping loved ones at home aligned perfectly with his values.

Now, as a Hallmark Homecare franchise owner, Dennis applies his military experience daily, leading with trust, relying on team collaboration, and staying calm when faced with challenges. “In the service, you learn to trust your training and your team. That’s exactly how I lead today.”

He also gives back to the veteran community by offering discounts through his business, serving as treasurer for his local American Legion, and staying actively connected with fellow service members he deployed with.

Dennis encourages veterans interested in business ownership to follow their passion, do thorough research and approach the journey with patience. “You’ll invest a lot of time and energy into it, so choose something that matters to you,” he said.

His success with Hallmark Homecare shows what’s possible when a veteran franchise opportunity aligns with a personal mission.

Rob White and Mark Tant — Bloomin’ Blinds

Rob White and Mark Tant, two military veterans turned franchise owners, both joined Bloomin’ Blinds after finding it was a natural continuation of their service-driven careers.

Rob served nine years in the U.S. Army, including deployments to Germany and Iraq, and later built a successful marketing career supporting independent retailers. Mark spent eight years in the U.S. Air Force, leading global engineering teams. Both Rob and Mark were drawn to franchising for the same reason: the structure, leadership opportunities and purpose it offers.

“The military teaches you to roll up your sleeves and learn every part of the job,” said Rob. “That mindset has helped me thrive as a business owner.”

After exploring countless options, both found the right fit with Bloomin’ Blinds. Rob was drawn to the family feel of the brand and its focus on supporting owners. Mark, who now runs the highest-grossing location in the country, appreciated the proven systems and service-based culture.

Their military experience continues to shape how they lead — whether it’s maintaining 5-star reviews, holding teams to high standards or connecting with fellow veterans in their communities.

“Veterans have so much potential,” said Mark. “They just need the right outlet. This business is mine.”

Rob’s advice to other veterans looking for their post-military career is to lean into their strengths. “You already know how to lead, stay disciplined and overcome challenges,” he said. “Franchising is just a new mission, one you’re already built for.”

Rob and Mark prove that the right veteran franchise opportunity can turn military experience into a community-impacting business.

Taking Charge of Your Post-Military Career

Veterans bring a unique blend of leadership, discipline and resilience that translates exceptionally well to franchising. As these stories show, finding the right franchise opportunity can provide a purposeful, structured path for transitioning service members eager to continue making an impact. With the support and resources from Franchise FastLane, veterans are empowered to transform their military skills into thriving businesses that honor their commitment and drive. If you’re a veteran ready to explore entrepreneurship, remember: your next successful chapter is waiting, and you don’t have to navigate it alone. Explore our all our brand partners to find the right business venture for you.