Leo Meneses, a retired Naval officer, has been a guiding force at Hire Heroes USA, helping veterans and military spouses navigate the often turbulent waters of career transition. As a role model and dedicated coach, Leo brings personal experience to his work, having sought mentorship, guidance, and resources during his own challenging journey from military service to civilian life. With a commitment to building a strong support system, Leo empowers veterans to successfully embark on their new careers.
Leo places a high value on giving back to our organization, believing that his Hire Heroes USA transition specialist played a crucial role in helping him achieve his goals. In 2018, three years before his retirement, he proactively sought out our nonprofit and quickly realized that his career-search skills needed improvement. Because of our organization’s commitment to his success, Leo has assumed the position as an Amphibious Warfare (AMW) Requirements Analyst at the Naval Surface and Mine Warfighting Development Center (SMWDC), providing qualitative analysis to help shape the development and requirements necessary for improving our warfighting capabilities.
“To show my appreciation, I volunteer, ensuring that my fellow veterans can experience the same success and support I had received in the job-search arena. I’m privileged to contribute to the Hire Heroes USA mission.”
Leo prepares for each client by reviewing profiles, resumes, and LinkedIn presence, allowing him to engage in meaningful conversations, resulting in tailored advice. Leo shares personal lessons learned, resources, and the latest trends and tools applicable to a positive job search—offering each client a high-quality experience. Whether during virtual or face-to-face meetings, Leo guides our veterans by providing hands-on, interactive sessions.
Leo focuses on an individual’s unique goals by posing the following: “What do you value the most in your life?” That inquiry opens doors to new perspectives and possibilities, helping veterans and military spouses establish a solid foundation so they can make decisions based on their values and take steps to align with their goals. He recalls coaching a client who faced unique challenges and life experiences:
“Guiding her through applications, LinkedIn profile enhancements, job interviews, and salary negotiations was fulfilling. I was privileged to watch her improve at every stage of her transition. Helping her achieve personal and professional goals brought me immense joy and a deep sense of accomplishment.”
For Leo, it was a powerful reminder of how our volunteers can make a difference. His message to prospective clients is: “Remember, there’s no shame in asking for help during your transition. Sometimes, the most crucial step is having the strength and courage to reach out. You’ll be surprised by how many people are ready and willing to assist you on your journey.”
Leo emphasizes that veterans aren’t alone and Hire Heroes USA is here to support them with the resources and guidance needed to achieve their goals and plans. “By seeking help, you open the door to a support network that can make a significant difference in your transition to professional success.”
Leo reinforces his clients’ career skills by instilling crucial confidence: “You possess the compass of your life and are capable of steering its course in the right direction and using your wisdom, abilities, strength, skills, talents—everything you possess to achieve success. Develop a plan and act on it.”
Leo shares the sentiment of many of our volunteers: “I’m grateful for the opportunity to contribute to an organization that makes a meaningful impact on others’ lives.” At Hire Heroes USA, we deeply appreciate Leo’s dedication and the difference he’s made in such a short time. Together, we believe in the power of community to create a better world and positively impact the lives of veterans and their families.
Written by: Sandy Chase