For many American's 4th of July is extra time to relax, enjoy outdoor barbecues, and watch fireworks, but Independence Day is so much more than just America’s birthday!
Way back in 1776, the Continental Congress formally adopts the Declaration of Independence, which is written largely by Thomas Jefferson. Though the vote for actual independence took place on July 2nd the 4th became the day that was celebrated as the birth of American Independence. Read more information of the most historic day here.
With the 4th of July coming up, I wanted to share with you my personal Military Story. My name is Anna Doris Wilds and I am a Franchise Advisor and Owner of Select Franchises. Here is my Military story:
Anna Wilds, United States Air Force Veteran, Franchise Advisor and owner of Select Franchises.
After business school at UNC – Chapel Hill, my career choice was to join the military. For most people, their first response to my news was, “Why?” There are two simple reasons for my decision. The first is that I had already worked in Corporate America. As I interviewed for similar positions just before graduating with my MBA, my heart wasn’t in going back to what I felt like I had already done. It didn’t feel like a step forward or a challenge. The second reason was the age limit for joining the military. I had dreamed of joining the military previously but it was not a common or popular career choice among my peers so I went the corporate/MBA route. I’m glad I did but I was ready for a new opportunity. Given the age limit of the military, I had only a few months to spare before before my 29th birthday, so I applied as soon as possible.
I turned down a job offer from AT&T and became a commissioned officer in the United States Air Force (USAF) in Health Services Administration. After training in Wichita Falls, TX, rural Germany welcomed me at my first duty assignment at Hahn Air Force Base (AFB). Famous Edwards AFB in California’s Mojave Desert was my second assignment. Edwards is the Testing Center for new aircraft. It is where Chuck Yeager broke the sound barrier and is the backup landing site for the Space Shuttle. Surprisingly I met quite an aged Chuck Yeager who still liked to hang out at the Officers’ Club, and I witnessed a Shuttle landing. What is thrilling to me is the double sonic boom it makes when coming in for landing. You can’t help but know it’s made its arrival. My third and last duty station was at Shaw AFB, SC. It was great to be close to home and visit it frequently I did.
STS-126 Shuttle Endeavour Lands at Edwards AFB, NASA
My time on active duty, 1990 – 1995, was during the Persian Gulf War. It surprised me to learn America was at war by watching CNN sitting in the little hospital in rural Germany where I was stationed. I found it strange indeed that I learned this historical event from a public newscast instead of through “secret” military channels in advance.
After promotion to the rank of Captain, it was typically an eight year wait before Major happened. It didn’t take too long for me to get restless for another challenge, and sitting through such a long time wasn’t attractive to me.
Entrepreneurship was my next decision. After the Air Force, my first business was to buy used imaging equipment from civilian hospitals, have it refurbished and then resold mainly to Mexican and South American doctors. Once I married and had children, I shifted gears to franchise consulting so I could help others enjoy the freedom and flexibility of business ownership. That was 17 years ago, and I am delighted with every step that lead me to where I am today.
From my experiences, I relate well to the Corporate Refugee who longs for more flexibility and control as well as to the service member who is figuring out how to transition to the civilian world. As a whole, both corporate professionals and former military have above average success as franchise business owners. Quality franchises are very eager to have this talent join their systems, and it is my honor and privilege to help these people find the business that is right for them. To me there is not a more rewarding line of work than helping people achieve and live their dreams. It’s been a great ride, and I look forward to staying on this path for many more years.
Like with recruiters, my consultation fees are paid by franchises so there is no cost to you for my services. If you are ready to explore franchise opportunities and be in business for yourself, but not by yourself, please reach out to me today. Happy 4th!