For Jack and Michelle Horner, service has always been at the core of their careers. With a combined 49 years in the United States Air Force, their transition into business ownership wasn’t about stepping away from service, it was about continuing it in a new and meaningful way.
Michelle
Jack
Michelle, a retired Air Force Captain, and Jack, a retired Senior Master Sergeant, spent decades operating in high-pressure environments, making decisions that affected lives, and upholding values like integrity, discipline and commitment. When the time came to retire from military life, they sought a path that would allow them to continue making a difference. That path led them to CarePatrol.
A Mission-Driven Business
In 2014, Michelle discovered CarePatrol through a franchise broker. The business aligned perfectly with the couple’s values, offering a way to assist seniors and their families in finding the safest and best care options. They were attracted by how the job was centered around giving back to their community by providing a much-needed service.
The transition from military service to entrepreneurship came with challenges, but their Air Force experience prepared the Horners well. The military taught them life skills such as operating as a unit, following directions, having integrity in everything you do, and that service before self is paramount. Those same principles guide Jack and Michelle in running their business today.
Making an Impact
Since opening their CarePatrol franchise, the Horners have helped over 2,000 families find assisted living, memory care, independent living or in-home care solutions for their loved ones. In their eyes, each family they assist represents another mission successfully accomplished.
Jack, who joined CarePatrol in 2018, brings his leadership and operational expertise to the business. Before joining Michelle in running their franchise, he spent five years as a manufacturing production supervisor at Lockheed Martin and two years at Wolverine Advanced Materials. However, it was CarePatrol that provided him with the most fulfilling role of his post-military career.
“I take great pride in knowing that we are truly making a difference,” Jack says. “Every day, we help families navigate one of the most difficult decisions of their lives–ensuring their loved ones receive the best care possible.”
Overcoming Challenges and Achieving Success
Launching and growing a business is never easy, and the Horners faced their fair share of challenges. The senior care industry requires deep empathy, patience and the ability to navigate complex healthcare and financial systems. Their military background in problem-solving and decision-making under pressure proved invaluable.
Through perseverance and a commitment to excellence, they have built a strong reputation in their community. Their franchise has grown steadily, allowing them to expand their reach and help more families. “Our biggest accomplishments stem from the service we provide daily,” Michelle says. “It’s not about numbers, it’s about ensuring that seniors live in safe conditions and have access to the resources they need.”
Building a Legacy
For the Horners, business ownership isn’t just about financial success, it’s about building a legacy of service. They describe their employees like family and owning a small business allows them to provide a career opportunity that is fulfilling and meaningful.
Their long-term goal is to continue expanding their business and reaching even more families as the need for senior care solutions is only growing. Jack and Michelle want to ensure that every family in their community has access to expert guidance and support when making these critical decisions.
More Than a Business
As they reflect on their journey from military service to business ownership, Jack and Michelle are grateful for the opportunity to continue serving others. “Our military experience shaped us into who we are today,” Michelle says. “It gave us the discipline, leadership skills and resilience needed to run a successful business. Most importantly, it reinforced the value of putting service before self.”
Their advice to fellow veterans considering entrepreneurship is to find a business that aligns with your values and mission. The skills you develop in the military–teamwork, leadership and problem-solving—are invaluable in business. With dedication and passion, you can continue making a meaningful impact.
With their unwavering commitment to service, Jack and Michelle Horner have transformed their CarePatrol franchise into more than just a business. It’s a mission, a community resource and a beacon of hope for families navigating the challenges of senior care. Their journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, integrity and a heart dedicated to helping others.