Where Our Veterans go After They Serve Depends on Training and a Tremendous Amount of Discipline
This article was originally published in Small Business Currents on November 11, 2024. One terrific benefit of military service is the amazing education veterans received. According to Jason Panke, owner of Floor Coverings International serving Austin and surrounding areas, discipline, focus and the message to “always do the right thing” were his biggest take aways from his service between 1995 to 2000 in the Marine Corp.
“Military training equips veterans with a range of skills and attributes that prove invaluable in civilian careers,” said Jason. “The rigorous discipline, strategic thinking, and adaptability honed during my military service prepared me for success across diverse fields. I had a love of IT and wanted to learn all I could and enter a career in that field when it was time.”
Upon leaving active duty, he ventured into the IT and Software Engineering industries, accumulating over two decades of experience. His career trajectory included significant roles at major companies such as Adobe and HP, culminating in his position as Sr. Director of IT, Customer Engineering, and Operations at a global firm.
The skills developed in the military—such as problem-solving, leadership, and project management—enabled Jason to thrive in the fast-paced tech sector. His ability to manage large projects and foster customer satisfaction underscored the practical application of his military training in civilian contexts.
However, a career shift occurred when organizational restructuring at his last job favored offshore positions, leading to his layoff. Unmotivated to return to a similar role, Jason explored new opportunities and found a fresh start with Floor Coverings International (FCI). The franchise’s alignment with his values and comprehensive support network convinced him to transition into a completely different field—floor coverings.
Jason’s resilience and willingness to learn new skills underscore the adaptability instilled by military training. His story highlights how veterans can leverage their military experience to excel in various industries, demonstrating the versatility and leadership that military service cultivates. With the backing of FCI’s team and his own determination, Jason is poised to make a significant impact in his new venture, highlighting the enduring value of the skills and attributes gained through military training.
“I’m excited to see all the homes that have been built in my area as there have been migrations from other states to Texas, and most specifically to the Austin area,” said Panke. “I’ve watched the economy get stronger and stabilize post COVID and with some of the great advancements in flooring such as stain repelling carpet to engineered hardwood flooring, there is really no place we can’t put in terrific, easy to maintain new flooring in any home or office.
I want to be the “go-to” flooring provider in my area and the professional who opened this new market for Floor Coverings International. I hope to employ at least 9-10 people in the next couple of years.”
