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Veteran Energy’s Kevin Barber Advises Veteran Entrepreneurs, “Do Your Homework”
Veteran Energy’s Mission Statement: “To positively impact the lives of veterans, active duty military, and their families on a daily basis” is the standard by which Veteran Energy President and Founder, Kevin Barber, and the company’s staff live and work.
And the company’s accolades point to its and its founder’s impact. They include: the Texas Veterans Commission’s 2015 Small Business of the Year, the Texas Veterans Commission’s 2015 Employer of Disabled Veterans of the Year, Rice University’s
Veterans in Business Association and Entrepreneurs Organization Veteran 2015 Entrepreneur of the Year Finalist , the American Legion National 2014 Winner of the Year for Small Employer of Veterans, Winner of the Better Business Bureau’s (BBB) Distinction Award for Excellence, and recognized by the Lone Star Veterans Association’s Operation Phoenix Donor.
However, like many in the Veteran community, awards mean far less than results do to Barber and his company. Barber and Veteran Energy have:
•hired and trained US Military Veterans for energy careers in Veteran Energy’s business development team;
•provided over 20 employment and career opportunities for Veterans, Reserve, Guard and their spouses in the energy field;
•supported and provided guidance for Veteran entrepreneurship programs that assist Veteran startups; and
•mentored Veterans in career, business, and life transitions.
Needless to say, when our staff sat down with him, we were already predisposed to like him. But then, in response to our first question, “What advice do you have for would-be Veteran entrepreneurs,” he exclaimed, “Do your homework, your due diligence.” Then and there, we knew we would appreciate the guidance he had to offer regarding Veteran entrepreneurship and employment.
Amy Rossi: Why did you decide to start Veteran Energy rather than taking on a more traditional career?