In the Mahoning Valley of Ohio, veterans are channeling their military-honed skills like discipline and leadership into thriving businesses, as highlighted in recent stories from local entrepreneurs. On October 28, 2025, business leaders shared how their service experiences fuel success in fields from communications to management, proving that lessons from the armed forces translate directly to the corporate world.
From Battlefield to Boardroom
Many veterans in the Mahoning Valley credit their military background for giving them a competitive edge in business. They point to skills such as quick decision-making and adaptability, which help them navigate the ups and downs of entrepreneurship.
Chris Thomas, owner of Tri County Tower in North Jackson, is a prime example. After serving in the U.S. Army as an intelligence specialist with two tours in Iraq, he bought his company in 2015. Thomas explains that the discipline he learned, from daily routines to high-stress deployments, mirrors the demands of running a small business. His firm now builds and manages communications towers across the country, often for emergency services.
Other veterans echo this sentiment. Local business owners say military training fosters teamwork and resilience, key traits for success in today’s fast-paced economy. Recent data shows that veteran-owned businesses in Ohio contribute billions to the economy, with many starting after service.
A 2025 report from the U.S. Small Business Administration notes that veterans are 45% more likely to be self-employed than non-veterans. In the Mahoning Valley, this trend is growing, supported by local programs that help former service members launch ventures.
Key Skills That Drive Business Wins
Military service builds a unique set of abilities that directly apply to entrepreneurship. Veterans often bring structured thinking and leadership that set them apart in the business world.
Here are some core skills veterans use to succeed:
- Discipline: Sticking to routines and goals, even under pressure, helps in managing daily operations.
- Leadership: Guiding teams through challenges, much like leading units in the field.
- Adaptability: Adjusting to changing situations, essential for pivoting in competitive markets.
- Problem-solving: Making quick decisions with limited info, a must for business hurdles.
These skills not only help in starting businesses but also in scaling them. For instance, Thomas uses his intelligence background to understand complex infrastructure needs, turning it into a profitable niche.
Beyond individual stories, broader trends show veterans excelling. A 2025 study by the National Veteran Business Development Council found that veteran-led firms grow faster on average, thanks to these ingrained habits.
Local Stories of Triumph
In Youngstown and surrounding areas, several veterans have built impressive enterprises. Their journeys highlight how military experience turns into real-world success.
Take Daniel Rossi, a World War II veteran who became a successful attorney in Mahoning County. His military discipline shaped a long career in law, showing early examples of this path. More recently, veterans like Jeremy Turner in nearby Dayton have launched tech businesses, drawing on Army skills for entrepreneurship.
In the Mahoning Valley, events like the Ohio Veterans Hall of Fame inductions celebrate these achievements. Two local veterans were honored in 2025 for their post-service contributions, including business leadership.
These stories inspire others. Programs such as SCORE offer mentoring, helping veterans translate service training into business plans. One veteran shared on social media how starting a painting company at 45 led to $500,000 in annual revenue, all thanks to military discipline.
Challenges and How Veterans Overcome Them
Starting a business is not easy, and veterans face unique hurdles like transitioning to civilian life. Yet, their training often gives them tools to push through.
Financial barriers are common. Many say military service prepares them mentally but leaves gaps in funding knowledge. To address this, Ohio provides resources like veteran business loans and grants.
A table of key challenges and solutions shows how veterans tackle them:
| Challenge | Veteran Solution | Example Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Funding Shortages | Use VA loans and small business grants | Secured startup capital for towers |
| Skill Gaps | Attend entrepreneurship workshops | Built tech firms from Army training |
| Market Adaptation | Apply adaptability from deployments | Pivoted during economic shifts |
| Networking | Leverage veteran networks | Formed partnerships for growth |
Despite these obstacles, success rates are high. A 2025 U.S. Chamber of Commerce report states that veteran-owned businesses in Ohio have an 8.2% annual growth rate, outpacing many others.
Veterans also benefit from community support. Local events in Youngstown offer networking, helping them connect and share strategies.
Broader Impact on the Economy
Veteran entrepreneurs boost the Mahoning Valley’s economy by creating jobs and innovation. Their businesses often focus on community needs, like emergency communications.
Nationwide, veteran-owned firms employ over 5 million people, according to 2025 Census data. In Ohio, they add to a vibrant small business scene, with many in tech and services.
This impact extends to hiring. Companies that employ veterans report higher productivity, thanks to their strong work ethic. A recent survey found that 75% of businesses see benefits from veteran hires, including better leadership.
As more veterans enter business, the region sees growth in diverse sectors. This trend ties into national efforts, like bills passed in 2019 and updated in 2025, making it easier for veterans to access small business resources.
Looking Ahead for Veteran Entrepreneurs
The future looks bright for veterans in business, with increasing support and recognition. In the Mahoning Valley, upcoming events and programs promise more opportunities.
Experts predict continued growth, driven by skills like resilience. With economic shifts, these traits will be even more valuable.
Veterans interested in starting out can look to resources like the Veteran Business Project for guidance. Success stories from 2025 show that with discipline, anyone can build a thriving venture.
Share this article if it inspired you, and comment below with your thoughts on how military skills shape business success.
