The Cost-Benefit Analysis of Separation Vs. Retirement with Michael Pett

Lessons Learned for Vets

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Michael Pett defied conventional military career wisdom when he chose to leave active duty at the 15-year mark. His calculated decision, backed by a thorough cost-benefit analysis comparing potential civilian earnings against military retirement, launched him into remarkable opportunities at Accenture and Uber before his current leadership role at Vets in Tech.
What sets Michael's transition story apart is his foresight and preparation. While still in uniform, he co-founded a protein dispenser business with fellow veterans that earned them a spot on Shark Tank. This entrepreneurial venture expanded his network beyond military circles and developed skills that proved invaluable in corporate environments. Witnessing family members struggle with their own military transitions provided Michael with critical insights into potential pitfalls, reinforcing his commitment to meticulous preparation.
The emotional aspects of transition prove equally challenging. Michael compares the experience to stages of grief, describing the limbo between military and civilian identities where veterans can feel isolated from both communities. This insight led him to build diverse support networks including both veterans who successfully transitioned and civilians who could guide him through corporate culture. After his success building veteran programs at Accenture and Uber, Michael faced burnout and mental health challenges that forced him to prioritize his own wellbeing first before refocusing on his career achievement.
Today, as Director of Employment and Community Outreach at Vets in Tech, Michael supports veterans through the organization's three pillars: education, employment and entrepreneurship. From developing technical skills to connecting with employment opportunities at major tech companies to providing capital for veteran-founded startups, this comprehensive approach addresses the spectrum of transition needs. You can learn more about their programs at www.vetsintech.com.

His journey demonstrates that with strategic planning, openness to new experiences, and willingness to seek support, veterans can build fulfilling civilian careers that leverage their military experience in unexpected ways. You can connect with Michael on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelpett1/

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1. The Cost-Benefit Analysis of Separation Vs. Retirement with Michael Pett (00:00:00)

2. Military Transition Introduction (00:02:00)

3. Starting a Business While Serving (00:03:40)

4. The Cost-Benefit Analysis Decision (00:06:36)

5. Building a Civilian Network (00:14:44)

6. Transition as Stages of Grief (00:21:22)

7. Mental Health and Finding Purpose (00:25:49)

8. Vets in Tech Mission Overview (00:32:02)

9. Education and Opportunities (00:35:07)