Navy veteran Steve Magyar transitioned his military skills to build a TruBlue Home Service Ally franchise, focusing on senior home maintenance and enabling aging in place.
As the senior home maintenance industry grapples with a growing population of older adults and a shrinking workforce, a unique and mission-driven group is stepping in to fill the gap: military veterans. Armed with leadership experience, logistical expertise and a deep-rooted sense of service, these veterans are bringing meaningful change to the way aging-in-place services are delivered across the country.
Steve Magyar, a Navy veteran based in Spokane Valley, Washington, is one such example. After serving ten years in the U.S. Navy as an aircraft mechanic and air traffic controller, Magyar is now dedicating his time and skills to helping older adults remain safe and independent in their homes through his TruBlue Home Service Ally franchise.
Magyar’s journey from military service to senior home maintenance business ownership highlights how veterans are continuing their service in innovative ways.
A New Mission After the Military
Magyar’s journey into business ownership wasn’t a long-planned career move. Instead, it emerged as an opportunity during a time of transition.
“I was between sales roles, and I took a business course that was offered through the local unemployment office,” said Magyar. “It really blossomed from there. I wasn’t confident in starting on my own, so I decided to go the franchising route. I knew it would provide that support infrastructure to get me started.”
While researching different franchise models, TruBlue Home Service Ally stood out. The franchise, which focuses on handyman services, home modifications and maintenance for seniors and busy adults, aligned with Magyar’s desire to support others while building a stable business.
“I loved that there was more than one income stream available,” he said. “We could offer handyman services, landscaping, cleaning and more. And now, with the real estate downturn, people are spending more on home services.”
Since opening TruBlue of Spokane Valley in 2019, Magyar has used his military training and leadership to build a business that serves the needs of his local community — especially older adults who want to age in place.
Military Skills, Civilian Impact
Veterans like Magyar often bring a valuable and practical mindset to business ownership, particularly in service-based industries. His military background, he says, has been instrumental in helping him build and grow his business.
“The military taught me about embracing diversity, the importance of training and a commitment to working with what you’ve got to get results,” he said. “Perseverance and experience with different kinds of people — these are the takeaways from my military years that have been instrumental in my business ownership and leadership.”
Magyar now works closely with local aging agencies and emergency response programs to ensure that seniors in his region can access reliable services — whether it’s a bathroom modification after a fall, a quick repair after a hospital discharge or routine maintenance to prevent future hazards.
Why TruBlue?
For veterans considering entrepreneurship, Magyar believes franchising offers a uniquely supportive path forward. And TruBlue, with its mission-driven focus and clear operational framework, was the right fit for him.
“If you are a veteran who is looking to step into the world of business but you are unsure if you can do it on your own, TruBlue is a great option,” Magyar said. “They will provide you with a proven business model and a game plan so you can start on the right foot.”
As demand for senior-focused services increases, Magyar says the timing has never been better. The market need is strong, and TruBlue’s services are not only essential — they’re life-enhancing.
Veterans Stepping Up in Senior Care
All across the country, TruBlue is attracting veterans who are looking for a second career that allows them to continue serving their communities. With more than 80 units nationwide, the franchise is building a reputation as a smart option for mission-driven entrepreneurs — especially those coming out of military service.
“Veterans bring discipline, adaptability and a strong work ethic — traits that are critical in the home services industry,” said TruBlue President Sean Fitzgerald. “Franchisees like Steve embody those qualities and are doing incredible work to make homes safer for seniors.”
Steve Magyar’s story is a reminder of the many ways veterans continue to lead and serve — this time, through a business that ensures people can remain in the homes they love, longer and more safely.
“We’re not just fixing things,” Magyar said. “We’re helping people live better, safer lives. That’s a mission I can get behind.”
About TruBlue Home Service Ally:
TruBlue Home Service Ally® provides a unique and affordable approach to helping busy adults and seniors live a worry-free life by offering trustworthy handyman, home maintenance and senior modification services. Helping you maintain your home both inside and out, TruBlue’s services include handyman projects and to-do list chores, preventative home maintenance programs, kitchen and bath remodels, seasonal work, and senior modification services, all handled by professional, bonded and insured Tru-Pro® Technicians. TruBlue franchise owners are required to complete senior home safety certification programs through the NAHB and Age Safe America. As certified specialists, TruBlue franchisees are able to perform aging in place home safety assessments and can make recommended safety modifications as needed.
All locations are independently owned and operated. Service offerings, certifications, and licenses vary by location.