Learning to code is hard.
Not because the concepts are impossible—but because the world is full of distractions.
You sit down to study loops… and suddenly, you’re on YouTube.
You open VS Code… and Twitter pops up.
You planned to learn for an hour… and somehow the day slips away.
Sound familiar?
Here’s the truth: focus is a skill, and as a veteran, you already have the muscle to build it.
You don’t need to spend thousands to break into tech.
When I started learning code, I had nothing but my laptop, time, and military grit. No fancy bootcamp. No CS degree. No insider connections.
But I did have access to some powerful (and free) tools.
If you’re a veteran trying to break into tech, here’s a list of free tools that helped me go from beginner to job-ready—without spending a dime.
When people hear I went from 13B Artillery in the Army to machine learning and cybersecurity, they usually ask the same thing:
“How did you make such a big leap?”
But here’s the truth: it wasn’t a leap.
The mindset I needed to thrive in tech? I learned it long before I ever opened a laptop.
When I was a 13B Cannon Crew Member in the U.S. Army, blowing things up wasn’t just part of the job—it was the job. I served in 2nd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment (2/3 ACR), and we lived for fire missions and battlefield precision. The sound of artillery, the shockwave from a howitzer—it was controlled chaos, and I loved it.
Imagine a dog so big that it looks like a gentle giant straight out of a fairy tale! The Great Dane is one of the most impressive and beloved dog breeds in the world. With a friendly smile and a calm, loyal heart, these dogs have captured the hearts of people for hundreds of years. Today, we’re going to explore the incredible history and life of the Great Dane.
Embarking on the journey to create GearSwap.Shop was a path paved with challenges, learning curves, and unexpected joys. As a military veteran with a passion for technology and a loyal canine companion by my side, this endeavor became more than just building an online marketplace—it became a testament to resilience, innovation, and the unbreakable bond between a man and his dog.
From Service to Civvy Street: The Genesis of GearSwap.Shop
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve worn a shirt that simply had one word—“GRACE”—and ended up in a full-blown conversation with someone about their faith journey. That’s the beauty of faith-driven apparel: it doesn’t just clothe you, it covers you in purpose. It’s more than a fashion statement—it’s a seed planted, a door opened, a chance to connect.
And let me tell you, I live for those moments.
There’s a moment that always gets to me.
I could be walking through a mall or scrolling Instagram, and I’ll see someone boldly wearing their faith—a T-shirt with a scripture verse, maybe a cross, or a line that echoes something straight from God’s heart. And every time, without fail, I feel that deep spark inside. It's not just admiration—it's inspiration.
Artificial Intelligence is transforming the world at an incredible pace, bringing both opportunities and challenges. While AI’s potential to enhance efficiency, innovation, and problem-solving is immense, concerns about ethics, fairness, and accountability continue to grow. As these conversations gained momentum, it became clear that everyday people—not just tech giants and policymakers—needed to be part of the discussion. And that’s exactly why the AI Coalition Network was born.
Creating an online marketplace dedicated to Christian bands and merchandise might sound challenging, but with the right tools and a clear vision, it became a reality in just a few days.
