For many veterans, the transition from military service to civilian life is filled with uncertainty. Questions of purpose, career direction, and financial stability loom large. It’s not just about finding a job; it’s about rediscovering identity in a completely different environment. For some, the loss of structure and camaraderie can be especially disorienting. That’s why more and more veterans are looking for paths that offer both independence and community, something franchising is uniquely positioned to provide.
Franchising offers the opportunity to operate independently while being supported by a proven system. For veterans used to working within structured environments but seeking autonomy, this balance is especially appealing. And for those with a deep desire to serve again, this time in their local communities, owning a franchise can be a natural extension of their military service.
A Natural Fit for Franchise Ownership
Matt Ruggieri’s story captures this perfectly. After serving eight and a half years in the U.S. Army, he transitioned into construction and logistics, eventually becoming a senior project manager in Pittsburgh. While successful on paper, he often found himself drained by the nine-to-five grind. “I was tired of working for other people,” Matt said. His wife, herself a successful entrepreneur, encouraged him to consider a change. “You don’t have to be miserable,” she told him. That moment became the catalyst for a new chapter.
His search for a better fit led him to Pillar To Post, a home inspection franchise known not only for its cutting-edge technology and strong reputation, but also its veteran-friendly culture. After attending a brand conference and completing training by December 2022, Matt officially launched his business in January 2023. He joined a territory already populated with eight other franchise business owners, but his drive and approach quickly set him apart. By the end of the year, he earned the company’s Rookie of the Year award.
Why Veterans Excel in Franchising
Franchising’s systematized operations, step-by-step training, and proven processes provide a reassuring sense of structure, something many veterans are already accustomed to. For Matt, Pillar To Post felt like a natural fit. “It’s a premier brand,” he said. “They give you the best tools, the best tech, and a framework to do it right.”
More importantly, veterans like Matt aren’t just following a system, they’re improving upon it. Veterans bring a unique set of strengths to the table: leadership under pressure, an unshakable work ethic, and a service-first mentality. Pillar To Post recognizes that, and it’s one reason why veterans make up nearly a third of the brand’s franchise business owners.
Turning Military Skills into Business Strengths
Matt credits his Army training with instilling the mindset needed to succeed as a business owner. “The military straightened me out,” he said. “I always wanted to be in the Army, and it helped me get on track.” The structure and discipline stayed with him long after his service ended. He even earned a master’s degree, a pursuit made possible by the Army.
In home inspections, technical knowledge is key, but so is trust and professionalism. Matt focuses on doing thorough home inspections and explains findings in ways clients can understand. But beyond technical skill, he emphasizes marketing and relationship-building. “You have to market to marketers,” he said, referring to real estate agents. “They can tell when you’re putting in extra effort.” His approach? Be reasonable, be fair, and always show value. The people you want to work with will be drawn to that.
Facing the Challenges of Civilian Entrepreneurship
Still, the road hasn’t been without bumps. Matt is honest about the mental grind of entrepreneurship. “Some days you’re the hammer, some days you’re the nail,” he joked. But his philosophy is simple, don’t break. Perseverance is key, and so is learning from mistakes. “Being a veteran might open the door, but you’ve got to execute. You’ve got to follow through.”
Even in a territory with multiple franchise owners, Matt never focused on competition. Instead, he doubled down on building strong relationships with local real estate agents. He immersed himself in the local Realtor association, made himself visible in the community, and leveraged every opportunity to show why he, and Pillar To Post, stood out.
More Than a Business
Part of what drew Matt to Pillar To Post was the culture. From his first brand conference to his daily interactions with fellow franchise owners, he found a space where veterans weren’t just welcomed—they were empowered. “It’s not about being flashy,” he said. “It’s about being good at what you do, and being known for it.”
As more veterans search for meaning and stability in their post-military careers, Matt Ruggieri’s story is a blueprint worth paying attention to. He didn’t just find a job, he built a business that reflects his values, his discipline, and his desire to do things the right way.
Franchises that embrace the veteran experience are setting the gold standard. For Matt, the camaraderie feels familiar, even after hanging up his uniform.