Who we Are
NXTStep Vets was founded by an Army Combat Veteran with a main focus of helping unemployed Veterans find their purpose to thrive. The team at NXTStep Vets embodies each of the Pillars for Success.
Chris "Gonzo" Gonzalez, Founder, US Army Veteran
After serving 8 years in the service as a Military Policemen, Chris felt the struggle of transition while enduring mental health struggles. Without many programs, had to rely on available mentors to help guide me through both struggles. Now after 21 successful years in the Logistics Industry, he understands the need to find Purpose through your passions and translate that into financial freedom.
Mike Milam, VSO, Sr Vice VFW Dept Ohio
Sr Vice Commander Milam is a Navy Veteran and a Veteran Service Officer in Ohio. Mike is passionate about helping veterans of all eras. Highly engaged with the Veterans of Foreign Wars, serving as VFW Dept of Ohio Leadership for several years, Chairman for VFW National Children’s Home and his work as a VSO make him a perfect fit for NXTStep Vets.
Mike will be ensuring that our Veteran Alumni have access to the resources available to them to develop their pathway to thrive.
Brad Bentley, Board Member, President FASTPORT
Brad is an advertising Industry veteran of 25+ years. Having lead a successful career in advertising, Brad transitioned to the technology sector with FASTPORT. FASTPORT is a technology platform that connects service members and veterans to Veteran Friendly companies.
Brad has a passion for assisting our Nation’s Hero’s. Never served in the military himself but Brad understand the needs of our Veterans and is considered a Patriot by many. Brad’s mission with NXTStep Vets will be to ensure that our Veteran Alumni have access to those Veteran Friendly Companies/
Jon Beauchamp, PMHNP-BC, Dept Of VA Affairs
Jon is a passionate advocate for Veteran’s Mental Health. As a Veteran himself, he understands the mental struggles that veterans face. Jon currently works for the Veterans Affairs Clinic in Clermont County, OH.
Jon will be working with our trained mental health volunteers to help our veterans understand their purpose better.
Charlene Burlew, Mental Health Therapist, Dept of Veterans Affairs
Your content goes here. Edit or remove this text inline or in the module Content settings. You can also style every aspect of this content in the module Design settings and even apply custom CSS to this text in the module Advanced settings.
CSM(R) Chris Gibson, Chaplain
Chris is a retired US Army SGM from the Post 9/11 Era. Chris is now retired and dedicating his passions to helping Veterans with an emphasis on spiritual healing.
Chris will be assisting our Alumni find their spiritual healing regardless of religious beliefs.
Sara Lee, Founder WayPoint Vets, Advisor
Sara founded Waypoint Vets with a mission to unite and empower veterans through activities and adventure. Sara is a US Army Combat Veteran and passionate about helping others. You can visit Sara’s mission at waypointvets.org
Sara will be an advisor for NXTStep vets as she has accomplished great feats with her current mission.
COL (R) Adam Rocke, Katie's Way Plus, Advisor
COL (R) Rocke is a true American leader. With over 30 years experience in directing, managing and coordinating various programs at the most high-ranking level within the military and now in his civilian career. Adam assisted in creating the Soldier for Life Program to help restructure the Army’s transition program. After Military Life Adam has worked with the Hiring our Heroes program and now heads Client Relations for Katie’s Way Plus. Katie’s Way Plus specializes in mental healthcare.
Roger Fair, Corporate Sponsorships
Roger Fair is a US Army Reserve Veteran and a marketing Industry veteran. Roger is very passionate about Veterans and Trucking.
Roger will be responsible for achieving our yearly donation goals to allow us to operate.