U.S. Marine Corps veteran Derrick Aguilar is a shining example of how military experience can translate into a successful civilian career. After completing the program in 2020, Aguilar has been serving the Southwest Florida community through his welding and fabrication business, American Veteran Welding. During his time as a corporal in Cherry Point, North Carolina, Aguilar honed his skills as a welder, repairing and fabricating military equipment. This experience laid the foundation for his transition into the civilian sector, where he now provides structural steel work services to commercial and residential projects.
Aguilar credits much of his success to the support he received from FGCU’s veterans program and staff. With the help of seed funding provided by the program, Aguilar was able to purchase a commercial service truck, welding machines, equipment, and tools necessary to kickstart his welding business. This initial investment marked a significant milestone in the growth of American Veteran Welding. Additionally, the program connected Aguilar with valuable business connections and mentors who played a crucial role in developing his entrepreneurial skills.
Looking ahead, FGCU’s veterans program is poised for a historic year. The program is on track to surpass $1 million in equity-free seed funding distributed to veteran entrepreneurs. Veterans Florida, a longstanding partner of the program, is celebrating its 10th anniversary, highlighting a decade of support for veterans in pursuing their entrepreneurial dreams. To further expand their impact, FGCU has increased the number of cohort-based programs offered and added more workshops to reach a larger group of local veterans.
According to program director Schaffer, veterans in the program are not just launching businesses; they are creating jobs, providing valuable services, and fostering economic growth in Southwest Florida. Each success story serves as a testament to the transformative power of the program, motivating the team to continue pushing forward. The achievements celebrated thus far fuel their passion to help even more local veterans turn their dreams into reality, knowing that the businesses they support have far-reaching impacts on the community.
In conclusion, Derrick Aguilar’s journey from Marine Corps veteran to successful business owner exemplifies the potential for veterans to thrive in the civilian sector with the right support and resources. Through programs like FGCU’s veterans program, veterans are equipped with the tools and guidance needed to launch and grow their businesses, ultimately contributing to the economic vitality of their communities. As the program continues to evolve and expand, the future looks bright for veteran entrepreneurs in Southwest Florida.
