From Soldiers to Entrepreneurs: Veterans Thrive in Travel Industry with Nexion Program

Veterans Finding New Purpose in Travel

A growing initiative called Nexion's Veterans in Travel program has become a beacon for U.S. military veterans transitioning into civilian life, allowing them to harness their military skills in the travel industry. With a unique focus on entrepreneurship, this program supports veterans in setting up their own travel businesses, turning what was once a passion into a profitable venture.

Nexion Travel Group: A New Frontier for Veterans

Founded by the Internova Travel Group, Nexion Travel Group has established itself as a premier host travel agency, providing the necessary resources, training, and support for independent travel agents. The Veterans in Travel (VIT) program exemplifies this commitment, offering scholarships and mentorship to former service members and their spouses. Since its inception in 2018, over 345 participants have engaged with the program, collectively generating sales exceeding $15 million, showcasing that military precision truly translates into business success.

The U.S. Small Business Administration reports that nearly 2 million businesses across the nation are owned by veterans. This fact underpins the drive of Nexion to harness that entrepreneurial spirit, enabling service members to channel their discipline, leadership skills, and resilience into successful careers in travel.

Success Stories from Veterans in Travel

One notable success story is that of Army Veteran Keala Burks, who now owns Service and Serenity Travel in Granbury, Texas. Keala discovered the VIT program while looking for ways to transition into a travel career. She describes the process as overwhelming but enlightening. "Having access to the scholarship support made it possible for me to take this leap without financial burden. It showed me that Nexion truly invests in the success of veterans," she states, reflecting on how her military background in logistics equipped her with essential business skills like time management and accountability.

Similarly, Air Force Veteran Kurtis Haring, who founded Sojoura Travel in San Francisco, used his three decades of experience in national defense and telecommunications to create a travel agency that connects people to enriching experiences. Reflecting on his time in the military and his journey in this new career, he notes, "When I thought of my happiest moments, they were always related to travel. The VIT program set a solid foundation allowing me to build a business with both purpose and community."

Kurtis also highlights the inclusive environment fostered by Nexion, where he felt empowered to express his authentic self, an experience he finds deeply rewarding.

Comprehensive Support for Entrepreneurs

The Veterans in Travel program not only offers scholarships but also provides hands-on training, mentorship, and coaching, all at a minimal cost. Participants engage with the Internova's Travel Leaders of Tomorrow Virtual Campus, gaining access to a global network of 100,000 travel advisors and supplier partners. The success rate shows that about one-third of new members are veterans, emphasizing the program's efficacy in guiding individuals towards entrepreneurship.

Jackie Friedman, President of Nexion Travel Group, states, "Our veterans are not only finding new jobs; they are becoming entrepreneurs. They bring the same commitment and determination that they exhibited during their service into the businesses they are building now." This sentiment has inspired Nexion to actively encourage service members and military spouses considering a career in travel entrepreneurship as the sector continues to grow.

Join the Movement

As Veterans Day approaches, Nexion emphasizes the opportunities available in the travel industry, which is thriving post-pandemic. The program is planning to welcome 40 new veterans in 2025, an increase from 22 participants in 2022. The organization invites all service members, retirees, and military spouses interested in a new chapter in their lives to explore the transformative potential of the travel sector.

To learn more about how to apply, potential candidates can visit www.veteransintravel.com. This platform not only connects them to new career opportunities but also ensures they continue their legacy of service, this time by helping others experience the beauty and diversity of the world through travel.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Nexion's Veterans in Travel program serves as a model for how the skills instilled in military service can translate into successful entrepreneurship within the travel industry. This initiative not only creates income opportunities for veterans but also builds a community that encourages personal growth, resilience, and connection with others, truly making a difference in the lives of many.