Entrepreneurship and Finding Your Path in the Military | Dondre Lawson
Having a college education is one of the best ways to help a former military member transition into civilian life. But is it possible to pursue your dreams while still serving your country? In this episode, I chat with Dondre Lawson, Senior Operations Sergeant in the Maryland National Guard and CEO of Emerald Technical Solutions, as he shares his journey of using military service to achieve educational, professional, and entrepreneurial success. Tune in to learn how to unlock the hidden benefits of the Guard and build a brighter future.Dondre’s Background After joining the Maryland National Guard at 18, Dondre Lawson discovered a passion for the IT field. Over the years, he earned several degrees that paved the way for his role as CEO of Emerald Technical Solutions, a company specializing in cloud engineering, cybersecurity, and digital infrastructure. He also runs a nonprofit organization, Defense Interns, to help connect high school students with real-world career experiences. The Value of Guard Benefits Dondre discovered the educational benefits offered by the Guard and utilized tuition assistance to pursue professional certifications. By earning a top-secret clearance and IT certifications, he unlocked opportunities in government contracting roles. He encourages Guard members to fully leverage these resources and approach their futures with a strategic mindset. Leadership Through Mentorship College isn’t the only path to career success—mentorship can be a powerful tool.Dondre advocates for "stacking mentors," learning from individuals at various stages of their careers. He credits mentorship with shaping his journey and inspiring him to create opportunities for others. His nonprofit, Defense Interns, embodies this philosophy by rotating students through different companies to help them develop a diverse set of skills.Balancing Guard Service and Business OwnershipDondre provides a unique perspective on managing dual roles as a Guardsman and a business owner. He discusses the challenges of supporting employees with military obligations and his strategies for maintaining continuity. Dondre also stresses the importance of hiring veterans, recognizing their unique skills and commitment."Think about where you'll be in 10 years. If you're 18, you'll be just 28—still young, but already halfway through your career. By then, you could have obtained a clearance, had your education paid for, maybe even deployed, and seen another part of the world." - Dondre Lawson. ResourcesDondre Lawson on LinkedInDefense InternsSponsorsThis episode of Part-Time Hitter is brought to you by Emerald Technical Solutions. Check them out at emeraldtechsolutions.tech.Part-Time Hitter is a collaborative initiative by Friendly Forces and The Fratty Guard. http://friendlyforces.comhttp://thefrattyguard.com