SFIA Launches VetsEXCEL Career Development and Mentorship Program to Empower Veterans Interested in Pursuing Civilian Careers Within the Sports and Fitness Industry

The Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA) has announced the pilot of a new professional development initiative, the VetsEXCEL Career Development and Mentorship Program. The program is designed to support military veterans as they transition from the military into civilian careers and are interested in pursuing jobs within the sports and fitness industry.

The pilot program, slated to begin in September 2025, will offer a comprehensive experience that combines hands-on professional development, one-to-one mentorship, career coaching, and unparalleled industry access. Through curated mentorships and strategic networking opportunities, veterans will gain firsthand exposure to the sports and fitness sector, equipping them with valuable insights and connections that will be vital to their civilian career pursuits.

The VetsEXCEL Program will emulate the components of SFIA’s existing Excelerator Program, which has played a pivotal role in shaping the future of young professionals currently working within the sports and fitness sector since the Excelerator Program’s inception in 2023. The inaugural VetsEXCEL cohort will consist of up to 10 military service members. Each service member will be paired with an executive within the sports and fitness industry who will serve as their mentor. Cohort participants will take part in interactive career workshops designed to enhance their awareness of career opportunities while addressing the unique challenges associated with transitioning from military service. Coaching sessions will also be provided to help cohort participants identify roles within the sports and fitness industry that align with their military experience.

Todd Smith, President & CEO of SFIA, emphasized why the VetsEXCEL Program is so essential: "Our veterans bring an unprecedented combination of discipline, leadership, and adaptability – qualities that make them incredibly well-suited for careers in the sports and fitness industry. Yet, many transitioning service members are unaware of the wealth of opportunities available to them within our industry sector. Through VetsEXCEL, SFIA is committed to providing guidance, connections, and resources that support our veterans and showcase the amazing civilian careers available to them across the sports and fitness industry.”

The launch of the VetsEXCEL pilot program has been possible thanks to the early support received from corporate partners, including the National Hockey League, Navy Federal Credit Union, and U.S. Veterans Magazine.

“The National Hockey League is proud to support the VetsExcel Program as part of Operation Line Shift, our broader commitment to honoring and empowering the military community,” said Kim Davis, NHL Senior Executive Vice President, Social Impact, Growth Initiatives & Legislative Affairs. “This initiative not only allows us to thank veterans for their service – it enables us to recognize their unique strengths and provide an onramp into sports industry careers.”

“It means a great deal to me that Navy Federal actively employs veterans, and they see the talent pool in veterans,” said West Sisoukrath, Navy Federal Security and Marine Corps Veteran. “It is great to know that Navy Federal supports veterans in the workplace through programs like VetsEXCEL and DoD SkillBridge.”

U.S. Veterans Magazine, ranked the No. 2 veteran-focused publication in the United States, is proud to feature the VetsEXCEL Program in its first-ever Veterans in Sports edition, scheduled for release in the Veterans Day issue. This special feature will spotlight decorated Green Beret and former NFL player Nate Boyer on the cover, highlighting why veterans are a natural fit for the sports and fitness industry. The edition will explore education, career pathways, and entrepreneurial opportunities that align with veterans’ unique strengths.

“Veterans are truly a perfect fit for the sports and fitness world,” said Mona Lisa Faris, president and publisher of U.S. Veterans Magazine. “Their ability to perform under pressure, take initiative, and work cohesively with others translates seamlessly into this dynamic field. We are excited about our partnership with SFIA and the many ways we can support veterans in building meaningful, successful careers in an industry that genuinely values the experience and mindset they bring to the table.”

SFIA is privileged to launch this pilot initiative and support our country’s service members. Industry leaders and corporations interested in supporting the program are encouraged to reach out to SFIA and contact Bonnie McLaughlin at [email protected]. Stay tuned for additional information about the VetsEXCEL pilot program available over the coming weeks.

To view the full press release online, click here.