Name:  Shane Minnick

Where were you born and raised?
I was born and raised in Minnesota – The Land of 10,000 Lakes.

What’s a short story around the biggest transition you’ve faced in life?
After spending over half my life in the military, I initially wanted to distance myself from the army and reinvent myself in another career field as quickly as possible. I found the change would be more significant than expected. One’s purpose and a positive culture are essential and easily attained within the military, but they may be challenging to find after separating. I look forward to staying connected and assisting the Tennessee SOF community through The Honor Foundation (THF).

What’s the one piece of advice you’d give a younger you?
Understand the significance of relationships/networks, prioritize time spent with family and friends, and identify and plan against long-term goals.

Your Personal Why?
My personal why is, and has been, assisting others in realizing what they are good at and maximizing their full potential. I believe I can continue to do this through THF.

How does your Why drive you to be a part of the THF Ecosystem?
While briefly working within the 5th Special Forces Group’s (5th SFG) retirement program, I realized how much potential we/the SOF community bring to the civilian market. Through THF, I can assist in reducing the delay military persons often experience between retirement and developing a fulfilling next chapter.

Military Connection or Why do you respect Special Operators?
I’ve logged over 30 years in the Army; I was assigned to the 5th SFG(A) for 21 years. I understand SOF personnel, their work history, work ethic, and capabilities. It is a privilege to be a part of the SOF community’s transition into the next life-chapter.

Favorite THF Value, and why?
My favorite THF value is – Be You “Know Thyself” as we navigate from the military into a new career, it is important to understand yourself to better recognize purpose and more quickly find success.

Area/Industry of expertise:
As the Director of Programs in Tennessee, it is my responsibility to leverage THF’s amazing staff, program, and incredible network to serve SOF persons transition into the most rewarding and successful life after the military.

Contact Shane directly, email shane@honor.org.