For many veterans, the transition from military to civilian life can be daunting. But for Vaughn Sullenberger, a U.S. Navy and Gulf War veteran, that journey became a mission of its own. After serving as a Navy Corpsman, Sullenberger found his calling in the financial industry, ultimately becoming a mortgage loan manager at Navy Federal Credit Union (NFCU). His story is not only inspiring—it’s a roadmap for how military experience can translate into meaningful civilian careers. His work now centers on helping other transitioning service members do the same.

Sullenberger’s journey began shortly after high school, when he enlisted in the Navy with a clear goal in mind: to earn money for college. “My whole goal was to get college money,” he said. That decision laid the groundwork for a career that would evolve over decades and across industries. Using the GI Bill, he earned an associate’s degree, and later completed his bachelor’s degree while working full-time in the financial sector. One employer recognized his potential and sponsored him to attend the Graduate School of Bank Management, a three-year program that combined coursework with practical projects throughout the year.

In 2017, Sullenberger joined Navy Federal Credit Union. Today, he leads hiring efforts in NFCU’s real estate lending department and works closely with the Department of Defense’s SkillBridge program. This initiative connects transitioning service members with civilian job training opportunities, and Sullenberger has become a key figure in helping veterans navigate this path. “I love helping people who served or their families,” he said. “I walked in their shoes … I think just helping the military community is what drew me to Navy Federal.”

What stands out in Sullenberger’s story is his deep understanding of the challenges veterans face when reentering civilian life. He emphasizes the importance of planning and preparation. According to him, service members should begin by reflecting on their military roles and identifying how those responsibilities translate to the civilian workforce. He encourages veterans to ask themselves two fundamental questions: What do you want to do after your service? And where do you want to live?

From there, he advises taking practical steps: pursue any necessary education or certifications, update your resume, and prepare for interviews. “One of the things people don’t think about is do you have the proper clothing and how you present yourself,” he added. “Practice your interview skills. Practice, practice, practice.”

I found this detail striking—how something as seemingly simple as attire or interview preparation can become a stumbling block for someone with years of military experience. Sullenberger’s advice underscores the importance of not just technical qualifications, but also the subtle nuances of civilian workplace culture.

His insights are rooted in a belief that veterans bring unique strengths to the corporate world. He points to their competitive skillsets, commitment to service, and strong sense of teamwork. “When you have this military experience of we have this mission to meet, then it's not an option to fail,” he said. “You’ve got to meet that mission. You take that mentality into the business world.”

That mindset—mission-focused, disciplined, and results-driven—is a powerful asset in any industry, but especially in fields like real estate lending and financial services, where attention to detail and integrity are paramount. As a mortgage loan manager, Sullenberger is in a position to both lead and mentor, using his platform to ensure that veterans are not just hired, but set up for long-term success.

The value of programs like SkillBridge becomes even more evident through stories like his. By providing a structured bridge between military service and civilian employment, these initiatives help veterans gain confidence, build networks, and acquire the tools they need to thrive in new environments. Sullenberger’s role in facilitating these transitions is a testament to how former service members can continue to serve—this time, by lifting up others who are walking the same path.

His message to fellow veterans is clear: plan ahead, leverage your experience, and don’t underestimate the importance of preparation. The transition may be challenging, but with the right support and mindset, it can also be incredibly rewarding. For those looking to follow in his footsteps, Sullenberger’s story offers both practical guidance and a powerful example of what’s possible after military service.

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