In this episode of the VET S.O.S. Podcast, we are honored to host Duane Bygum, a 30-year veteran of the armed forces and current chair of the Disaster Recovery Institute (DRI) Veterans Outreach Program. With a distinguished career spanning the Marine Corps, Air Force, and law enforcement, including his role as Deputy Chief of Police, Duane provides a wealth of knowledge on the transition from military service to civilian success.
Duane shares his personal journey, from his groundbreaking work on the first biometric fingerprint identification system in the Air Force to leading as Chief of Police for the U.S. Navy. After retiring, he discovered the life-changing DRI scholarship program, which helped him gain essential certifications in business continuity, continuity of operations, and disaster preparedness—paving the way for a thriving corporate career.
In this episode, Duane delves into the practical and transformative benefits of the DRI scholarship, a program designed to support veterans within three years of separation or one year before separation. He highlights the application process, eligibility criteria, and the value of in-person learning experiences offered through DRI programs. He also emphasizes the importance of mentorship, networking, and building skills that are directly transferable to the civilian workforce.
🎧 Key Takeaways from This Episode:
- Duane’s unique insights into transitioning from the military to civilian life.
- The pivotal role of the DRI scholarship in acquiring certifications and securing a corporate career.
- Step-by-step guidance on applying for the DRI scholarship, including essay tips and volunteer activity requirements.
- Why in-person learning often outshines online courses in professional development.
- Advice for veterans on leveraging mentorship and support networks like VET S.O.S.
Actionable Insights:
- Learn how certifications in disaster recovery and business continuity can enhance your career prospects.
- Discover the importance of starting your transition early and preparing for civilian opportunities.
- Explore resources like VET S.O.S. for additional guidance and support.
Why Listen?
Whether you’re a veteran planning your next career move or someone seeking to understand the challenges of military-to-civilian transitions, this episode is packed with actionable advice, inspirational stories, and valuable resources. Duane’s firsthand experiences and passion for supporting veterans make this a must-listen for anyone navigating this critical phase of life.
Join us to uncover how the DRI scholarship and its programs can serve as a lifeline for veterans stepping into new professional territories. Don’t miss this empowering and informative conversation! https://drii.org/ https://foundation.drii.org/what-we-do/veterans-outreach-program/ #vetsos #VeteranTransition #DRIScholarship #DisasterRecovery #BusinessContinuity #VetSupport