Andrew “Andy” Harrell

Andy Harrell’s Career and Transition Journey

• Military Career:
  • Served 11 years on active duty and 9 years in the Navy Reserves as an SH-60B helicopter pilot.
    
  • Retired as an LCDR in 2010.

• Transition Decision:
  • Declined a Navy retention bonus, felt uncertain about long-term career prospects in the military.
    
  • Stayed in the Reserves (which helped secure a civilian job and remain connected).

• Early Civilian Career:
  • Landed his first post-military job through college alumni networking.
    
  • Second job came via Reserve contacts, working as a defense contractor.

• Key Realization:
  • Noted the cultural and value shift between military and civilian workplaces—profit vs. service.

Entrepreneurship and AHA

• Founded AHA in 2003 while still employed and in the Reserves.
  
• Worked double duty for 4 years before going full-time in his business.
  
• Secured SBA 8(a) certification in 2007, spurring growth.
  
• Inc. 500 Recognition: Ranked #182 fastest-growing private company in 2010.

• Trigger to Entrepreneurship:
  • Faced potential layoff despite good performance.
    
  • Chose to take control by founding a business.
    
  • Early success came through subcontracting with his former employer.

Transition Advice & Discussion

Networking & Relationship Building

• Repeatedly emphasized relationships and networking—both in college and military.
  
• Encouraged using platforms like LinkedIn and revisiting past professional contacts.
  
• Stressed the value of NNOA and TAT as lifelong professional networks.

Mindset Shift

• Transitioning service members must reframe their thinking:
  • From “service-first” to “value and profit-driven.”
    
  • From hierarchical to more fluid organizational cultures.

Financial Preparation

• Andy emphasized avoiding pay gaps by planning carefully and building business while working.
  
• Start early. Don’t wait until after retiring to think about finances, insurance, or employment.
  
• Choose cost-of-living-friendly locations post-service.

Participant Insights & Concerns

• Stephen (Marine Major):
  • Transitioning due to non-selection for promotion.
    
  • Managing TAP, VA claims, and medical records while on tight timeline.
    
  • Seeking guidance on resume, job search, and life insurance options.

• Lloyd “Chili Mac” Mack (Navy Captain):
  • Retiring in November after 30 years.
    
  • On a “rediscovery journey” to understand passions and redefine post-service identity.

Advice Offered:

• Start early with VA claims and gather all documentation.
  
• Digitize records if possible and break large files into smaller ones for submission.
  
• Apply for life insurance before VA disability ratings are finalized (for better rates).
  
• Explore resources: MOAA, Navy Mutual, First Command, Onward to Opportunity, LinkedIn Premium, etc.

Closing Messages

• Mentorship Matters:
  • Several attendees credited NNOA and senior mentors with helping them advance in their careers.
    
  • Networking and community remain vital even after retirement.

• Andy Harrell’s Final Thoughts:
  • Be proactive, plan thoroughly, and be relentless in maintaining professional relationships.
    
  • Your military experience is valuable—learn how to translate it and sell it.
    
  • Keep building skills and don’t let fear paralyze you.

Resources Mentioned

• LinkedIn Premium (1-year free for veterans)
  
• MOAA Career Fairs
  
• First Command & Navy Mutual (for insurance)
  
• Onward to Opportunity (O2O) transition training
  
• NNOA Transition Assistance Team & Archived Fireside Chats