Trailblazing Veterans Driving Leadership Impact, 2026
ON THE COVER
Derek Gwaltney
Derek Gwaltney is not the kind of leader who stumbled into his role. His path to becoming the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Atlas Experiences was shaped by years of discipline, a deep commitment to people, and a belief that the most meaningful work happens when strategy, creativity, and purpose come together.
Andy Fermo’s journey is a powerful example of how service, struggle, and purpose can shape a leader who creates real impact. As a military veteran, former first responder, wellness facilitator, and Founder of Invisible Injuries Australia, Andy has built his work around helping veterans, first responders, and their families find support, connection, and practical tools for wellbeing.
Ben Currin
Ben Currin’s leadership journey is shaped by discipline, service, courage, and a strong belief in solving real problems for real people. As the CEO of Vantaca, he leads a company that has grown into a major software and AI platform for community association management.
Matt Butler
For Matt Butler, entrepreneurship didn’t begin in a boardroom-it began during deployments around the world while serving as a U.S. Air Force officer. Over more than two decades of military service, Butler learned firsthand the importance of leadership, discipline, risk management, and mission-focused execution.
Charlotte Hudson, known to many as Charlie Hudson, built a remarkable twenty-two-year career in the United States Army from 1973 to 1995. She entered the military during a time of significant change for women in uniform. She joined under a special program within the Women’s Army Corps, at a time when female service members were transitioning into broader Army roles.
– A r t i c l e s –
