Military Veterans Work Out Business Skills at UF Business Boot Camp

Authored by: MAJ Gen David E. Kratzer United States Army (Retired), Vice President of Student Affairs University of Florida

Florida is well known for its veteran and military friendly climate. With 20 active military bases and three combatant command centers working to protect our nation and create stronger communities, Florida must do more for the next stage of a veteran’s life. One of the best ways honor our veterans is to provide them with access to programs that will fill gaps in employer needs.

That’s where the University of Florida (UF) comes in. Our Veterans Entrepreneurship Program recently held a crash course in business, hosting 32 vets from across the nation for one week. The program included lectures from professors and guest entrepreneurs and covered every topic new entrepreneurs need to know to jump-start their own small business ventures.

We have a great opportunity in Florida to welcome those with specialized skills and talents. Recent legislation signed into law by Governor Rick Scott, the Florida GI Bill, makes higher education more accessible for all veterans wishing to advance their education and career in Florida.

As Florida continues to move in the right direction and groups like the Florida Chamber of Commerce continue to focus on the fight ahead, programs like those at UF will only further economic growth. We are reminded daily of the sacrifice Florida’s many veterans have made for our communities. And at UF and the Florida Chamber, we believe we can give a little back.

Get Involved:

Join us in our mission to support military and veteran initiatives by registering for the Florida Chamber Foundation’s Military, Defense & Veterans Opportunities Summit, on August 13, 2014 at the Hyatt Regency Orlando, International Airport.