Angel Shuford Appointed Vice President and CFO of National Invest In Veterans Week®
Angel Shuford, U.S. Army veteran and Vice President/CFO of National Invest In Veterans Week®, continues to break barriers in veteran advocacy and entrepreneurship. Alongside her husband, Jeff Shuford, Angel was recently honored with the Global Humanitarian Innovation and Legacy Award, celebrating their transformative work supporting veterans worldwide. From pioneering global initiatives like Tech From Vets to building digital hubs such as FloridaVeterans.com, Angel’s leadership is driving innovation and creating lasting opportunities for veteran-owned businesses.
Angel Shuford now stands as one of the most influential women in modern veteran entrepreneurship
In a moment that will undoubtedly redefine the landscape of veteran advocacy, National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW) proudly announces Angel Shuford as its new Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (CFO). Angel Shuford, an accomplished leader with unmatched expertise in aviation, technology, real estate, and veteran advocacy, now stands as one of the most influential Black women in veteran entrepreneurship and leadership. Her extraordinary career trajectory and visionary insights mark a transformational moment for NIVW, cementing the organization as the ultimate global platform dedicated to empowering veteran-owned businesses.
This appointment isn't just a step forward for NIVW—it’s a leap toward scaling its impact, influence, and innovation on an international level.
A Track Record of Excellence Across Industries
Angel Shuford brings an exceptional history of leadership and success across multiple high-stakes industries. She has led groundbreaking initiatives in aviation, technology, and real estate, establishing herself as a forward-thinking trailblazer. Her influence and innovative approaches have earned her recognition from global powerhouses like Google, Comcast Business, HarvardX, and the U.S. Department of Defense.
Under Angel’s leadership, National Invest In Veterans Week® is strategically positioned to expand its intellectual property assets and amplify its global presence. With a portfolio of over 40 international markets, NIVW is driving opportunities for veteran entrepreneurs on a massive scale. This includes cutting-edge domains such as FloridaVeterans.com, UnitedKingdomVeterans.com, AustraliaVeterans.com, and many more, which serve as critical digital hubs for resources, advocacy, and support. Angel’s appointment is the catalyst that will take these tools to the next level, ensuring they become the cornerstone of veteran empowerment worldwide.
Credentials That Exemplify Leadership and Expertise
Angel Shuford’s career is a showcase of certifications and achievements that highlight her unique ability to lead at the highest level. Every credential reflects her expertise, precision, and drive for innovation—qualities that will elevate NIVW to new heights:
FAA Control Tower Operator Certification
Awarded by the Federal Aviation Administration, this certification demonstrates Angel’s exceptional skill in managing complex air traffic operations—proving her ability to deliver results in high-pressure environments.
FAA Part 107 Drone Pilot License
With this certification, Angel revolutionized the real estate industry by integrating advanced drone technology into property marketing. Her visionary approach has driven over $6 million in combined real estate sales and listings, creating entirely new standards in the field.
Secret Security Clearance (U.S. Department of Defense)
A prestigious clearance that underscores Angel’s trustworthiness, reliability, and ability to manage sensitive operations with discretion and professionalism.
Technology Entrepreneurship: Lab to Market (HarvardX)
A certification from Harvard University, this program focuses on bringing innovative technologies from concept to commercialization. Angel’s participation highlights her strategic approach to innovation and business growth.
Military Relocation Professional (MRP) Certification (National Association of REALTORS®)
This credential positions Angel as a trusted expert in assisting military families with seamless relocations, a vital service for veterans transitioning to new opportunities.
Google IT Support Professional Certificate
Delivered by Google, this globally recognized certification showcases Angel’s adaptability and technical expertise in troubleshooting, networking, and systems management.
Occupational Safety and Health Manager Certification (OSHA)
A credential that highlights Angel’s commitment to safety, compliance, and operational excellence in large-scale initiatives.
BizTech Award Winner (Comcast Business)
This prestigious award celebrates Angel’s achievements as co-founder of Tech From Vets, a trailblazing organization that empowers veteran entrepreneurs with cutting-edge technology solutions.
Project Management Principles and Practices (University of California, Irvine)
This program reflects Angel’s ability to manage large-scale projects with efficiency and deliver exceptional results.
Innovation in Real Estate Marketing
As the Director of Real Estate and Aerial Photography at Kellum Corporation, Angel Shuford redefined the way properties are marketed. Utilizing her FAA Drone Pilot License, she introduced state-of-the-art aerial photography techniques that brought properties to life in stunning detail. Her contributions have not only transformed real estate branding but also facilitated over $6 million in property sales and listings, particularly for military families seeking new homes.
Empowering Veteran Entrepreneurs Through Technology
As the co-founder of Tech From Vets, Angel has spearheaded initiatives that integrate innovative technology solutions into veteran-owned businesses. The organization’s mission to uplift veterans has been widely recognized, earning Angel the BizTech Award from Comcast Business and the Jacksonville Business Journal. Through her leadership, Tech From Vets has become a beacon of hope and resilience for veterans, equipping them with the tools they need to succeed in today’s competitive market.
Global Advocacy for Veterans
Angel Shuford’s impact at NIVW extends far beyond borders. Through strategic collaborations with prominent organizations such as Sports Illustrated, Catholic Charities of Kansas City-St. Joseph, and the U.S. Army Soldier for Life Program, she has elevated NIVW’s global reputation. These partnerships showcase her ability to connect with influential networks and align NIVW’s mission with critical opportunities.
NIVW’s intellectual property portfolio, including its registered National Invest In Veterans Week® trademark, and domains like GermanyVeterans.com and BrazilVeterans.com, serves as a testament to Angel’s strategic foresight. These digital assets, along with initiatives like the Invest In Veterans Week Podcast, are transforming NIVW into a world-class platform for veteran advocacy.
Championing Education and STEM Diversity
Angel Shuford’s contributions extend beyond her professional endeavors. She is the author of "The Manuscript," a groundbreaking resource designed to help service members transition to civilian life while maximizing their benefits. She is also a STEM Scholar, advocating for diversity and inclusion in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields. Her work is opening doors for underrepresented communities and ensuring veterans and their families are equipped for the future.
Inspired by Legacy and Mentorship
Angel’s leadership is deeply influenced by her connection to Jim Freeman, her husband Jeff Shuford’s grandfather and a Grammy Hall of Famer. Freeman’s legacy as a founding member of The Five Satins, famous for their timeless hit “In the Still of the Night,” serves as a guiding light for Angel’s mission. His creativity and resilience are values that Angel carries into her work with NIVW every day.
Maximizing Brand Value and Social Capital
Angel Shuford’s appointment as Vice President and CFO represents a strategic leap forward for National Invest In Veterans Week®. Her leadership amplifies the organization’s brand equity, solidifies its global influence, and strengthens its intellectual property portfolio. Partnerships with industry titans like HarvardX, Google, and Comcast Business ensure NIVW’s assets are not just valuable—they’re indispensable.
A Bold Vision for the Future
Angel Shuford is more than a leader; she’s a visionary. Her role at NIVW marks the beginning of a new era for veteran advocacy, one defined by innovation, empowerment, and global impact. Under Angel’s leadership, NIVW will continue to expand its influence, inspire change, and deliver results that honor and uplift the veteran community.
With Angel Shuford at the helm, National Invest In Veterans Week® is positioned to achieve unprecedented growth, empower more veterans than ever before, and cement its legacy as the ultimate advocate for veteran-owned businesses worldwide.
U.S. Army Experience: The Foundation of Excellence
Angel Shuford’s impressive leadership and operational expertise are deeply rooted in her distinguished service with the U.S. Army. Serving for 4 years and 9 months as part of the 1st Battalion, 11th Aviation Regiment, Angel demonstrated extraordinary skill, dedication, and a commitment to excellence that set her apart as a leader in aviation and operations.
In her role as Air Traffic Control Specialist, Angel safely managed over 170,000 air traffic movements with zero accidents, injuries, or loss of life, a track record that underscores her unwavering focus on precision and safety. Supporting the U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence (USAACE) flight training mission and the 110th Aviation Brigade, she contributed more than 1,000 air traffic service (ATS) hours, ensuring the success of critical military aviation operations.
As a leader, Angel excelled as the Aviation Company Noncommissioned Officer in Charge (NCOIC), where she played a vital role in training, mentoring, and maintaining operational readiness. Her commitment to mentorship was particularly evident in her work as an ATC Training Supervisor, helping four Soldiers achieve their Control Tower Operator (CTO) certification and contributing to an impressive 87% score in Quality Assurance (QA) Inspections.
Angel’s tireless dedication to excellence extended to her safety leadership. As the ATC Stagefield Safety Officer, her efforts were pivotal in earning a commendable safety rating during the Initial Command Inspection (ICI) for Fiscal Year 18 at Goldberg Stagefield, setting a high standard for Bravo Company.
These accomplishments highlight Angel’s ability to lead in high-pressure environments while maintaining exceptional standards in military aviation, safety management, training, and operations. Her time in the Army also showcased her adaptability and technical acumen, reflected in her mastery of Federal Aviation Regulations, the Digital Training Management System (DTMS), and other critical systems.
Angel’s military service is a testament to her resilience, leadership, and capability—qualities that continue to fuel her success at National Invest In Veterans Week®, where her extensive experience and dedication to excellence are helping empower veterans on a global scale.
A Career Built on Excellence and Recognition
Angel Shuford’s illustrious career is punctuated by an extraordinary array of honors and awards, showcasing her relentless commitment to excellence in both professional and academic pursuits. Her LinkedIn profile serves as a testament to her achievements, offering a glimpse into the accolades that define her legacy.
Army Commendation Medal (ARCOM): Presented by the U.S. Army in recognition of sustained acts of heroism and meritorious service, this prestigious medal reflects Angel’s dedication to excellence in every mission she undertakes.
Superior Academic Achievement Award: Honored by the Henry Caro Non-Commissioned Officer Academy, this award celebrates Angel’s remarkable academic and professional achievements during her military service.
Thomas Edison State University President’s List: Angel’s commitment to academic excellence shines through with a 4.0 GPA during multiple terms, earning her a coveted spot on the President’s List in September 2020 and December 2020.
Army Good Conduct Medal (AGCM): A symbol of honor and fidelity, this medal recognizes Angel’s exemplary service and unwavering professionalism during her time with the U.S. Army.
SBB Research Group STEM Scholarship: Awarded for her outstanding contributions and academic excellence in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), this scholarship highlights Angel’s passion for innovation and education.
Five Star Certificate of Excellence: Presented by Broker★Agent Advisor, this recognition is a testament to Angel’s exceptional expertise and dedication in real estate, where she consistently delivers excellence for her clients.
GoArmyEd "Making The Grade" Honor: Angel’s ability to balance military service and education earned her this award for maintaining an impressive 3.75 GPA while serving full-time as an Air Traffic Controller.
Susan O. Friedman Endowed Scholarship: As a recipient of this distinguished scholarship, Angel has demonstrated both academic excellence and leadership in the Applied Science and Technology program.
Military Scholarship (Thomas Edison State University): Recognizing Angel’s service and sacrifice, this scholarship underscores her commitment to education as a U.S. Army veteran.
Army Achievement Medal: Awarded for her exceptional performance and dedication during her military career, further highlighting her ability to lead and excel.
BizTech Award Winner (Comcast Business): Celebrated for her groundbreaking work as co-founder of Tech From Vets, this award exemplifies Angel’s innovation and commitment to empowering veteran entrepreneurs.
Top Sales Award "Rookie of the Year": Angel’s remarkable success as a REALTOR® with Kellum Corporation—closing over $1 million in sales and $2 million in listings during her first year—is a shining example of her entrepreneurial spirit.
Distinguished Scholar Award (Honorable Mention): Recognized by the Maryland Higher Education Commission, Angel’s academic achievements extend back to her high school years, where she also earned distinctions such as Co-Salutatorian, National Honor Society, and the Outstanding Academic Excellence Award.
From earning military commendations to excelling academically, Angel Shuford’s impressive honors solidify her status as a trailblazer in every field she touches. These accolades highlight the qualities that make her an invaluable leader at National Invest In Veterans Week®, where she continues to inspire and empower veterans across the globe.
Discover more about Angel Shuford’s remarkable journey by visiting her LinkedIn profile: Angel Shuford on LinkedIn
Extensive Aviation Expertise Backed by Advanced Training
Angel Shuford’s exceptional aviation credentials are fortified by a series of advanced courses and certifications that reflect her deep commitment to operational excellence and safety. Through specialized training programs, Angel has developed the expertise necessary to navigate the complexities of modern aviation while maintaining the highest standards of performance.
Her coursework includes:
AFS-850 National FAASTeam - Airman Certification Standards (ACS): A comprehensive program focused on airman certification and operational standards to ensure safety and proficiency.
ALC-449 - Aeronautical Proficiency Training, LLC - Cloudy Skies, Clear Judgement: Training designed to improve decision-making in challenging aviation conditions.
ALC-566 - NAFI PDP: Marketing for the Professional CFI: A targeted course for Certified Flight Instructors on effective marketing strategies in the aviation industry.
ALC-468 - Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association: Weather Wise - VFR into IMC Course: Essential training for understanding weather dynamics and avoiding inadvertent flight into instrument meteorological conditions.
ALC-295 - Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University: NEXRAD: A specialized program on radar technology and its application in modern aviation.
ALC-434 - FAA Safety Team: Aviation Weather Data - A Targeted Approach: Focused training on leveraging aviation weather data for improved safety and decision-making.
ALC-322 - FAA Safety Team: Fatigue Countermeasure Training: Advanced training on mitigating fatigue to enhance pilot performance and safety.
ALC-174 - FAA Safety Team: Helicopter General and Flight Aerodynamics: An in-depth course covering the principles of helicopter aerodynamics.
ALC-104 - FAA Safety Team: Helicopter Weight & Balance, Performance: A focused program on helicopter-specific weight, balance, and performance parameters.
ALC-103 - FAA Safety Team: Top 10 Causes of General Aviation Accidents: A course addressing common safety challenges in aviation to reduce risks.
These certifications are not only a testament to Angel’s expertise but also highlight her relentless pursuit of knowledge to support the missions of the U.S. Army and beyond. Each course further strengthens her ability to lead, train, and inspire within the aviation industry, making her a vital asset to National Invest In Veterans Week®.
Learn More About Angel and Jeff Shuford's Impact
Angel Shuford’s dedication to empowering veterans and creating lasting change has earned her and her husband, Jeff Shuford, widespread recognition for their efforts. Recently, the pair was honored with the Global Humanitarian Innovation and Legacy Award, celebrating their unwavering commitment to service, leadership, and advocacy.
Read the full story on the Kellum Corporation Blog: The Global Humanitarian Innovation and Legacy Award Honoring Jeff and Angel Shuford
This award is just one example of how Angel and Jeff are leaving a lasting legacy through their work with National Invest In Veterans Week®, Tech From Vets, and beyond. Don’t miss this inspiring look at their incredible journey to making a difference worldwide.
Drayton Florence: The Importance of Legislative Advocacy for Veteran-Owned Businesses: A Call to Action During Invest In Veterans Week
As we honor our veterans during National Invest In Veterans Week, it's crucial to remember the ongoing challenges faced by veteran-owned businesses. In this column, Drayton Florence, Director of Veteran Business Advocacy for National Invest In Veterans Week, explains why legislative advocacy is crucial for veteran entrepreneurs and how a national proclamation can make a significant impact.
As a former National Football League player and co-founder of Tech From Vets, a veteran-owned technology development company, I know firsthand the obstacles veterans face when starting and growing businesses. From access to capital to networking opportunities, veteran entrepreneurs need support from both the private and public sectors. This is where legislative advocacy comes in.
The Need for Legislative Advocacy for Veteran-Owned Businesses
Despite the incredible sacrifices and skills veterans bring to the table, their businesses often face significant challenges. One of the most pressing is access to funding. While there are several programs and resources available for veteran entrepreneurs, navigating them can be difficult, especially for those who have recently left active duty. Additionally, many veteran-owned businesses struggle to find new clients or partners due to lack of connections or marketing resources.
Legislative advocacy can help overcome these obstacles. By creating legislation that prioritizes veteran-owned businesses for funding and partnerships, legislators can provide much-needed support for these enterprises. This type of advocacy can also help create awareness and increase visibility for veteran-owned businesses, leading to new partnerships and revenue streams.
Invest In Veterans Week: A Call to Action for Legislators
As we celebrate National Invest In Veterans Week, we must acknowledge the crucial role legislators play in supporting veteran-owned businesses. A national proclamation can bring much-needed attention to the challenges and opportunities facing veteran entrepreneurs. It can also provide a powerful call to action for legislators to prioritize legislation that supports veteran-owned businesses.
Legislation named after Invest In Veterans Week can provide a tangible way for legislators to demonstrate their commitment to supporting veterans. This legislation can include provisions that increase funding for veteran-owned businesses, provide incentives for private sector partnerships, and improve access to resources for veteran entrepreneurs.
Creating lasting change for veteran-owned businesses requires a comprehensive approach that involves both the private and public sectors. Legislative advocacy is an essential component of this approach, and a national Invest In Veterans Week proclamation can serve as a catalyst for change.
The Impact of Legislative Advocacy for Veteran-Owned Businesses
Legislative advocacy has the potential to make a significant impact on the lives of veteran entrepreneurs. By prioritizing funding, partnerships, and resources for veteran-owned businesses, legislators can create new opportunities for these enterprises to thrive. This, in turn, can help create jobs, drive innovation, and strengthen local economies.
One example of the impact of legislative advocacy is the Veterans Entrepreneurship Program (VEP), which provides training and mentoring to veteran entrepreneurs. This program was created through the efforts of legislators and has since helped hundreds of veteran entrepreneurs start and grow businesses. Programs like VEP demonstrate the power of legislative advocacy and the potential for positive change.
Conclusion
As we honor our veterans during National Invest In Veterans Week, let us not forget the challenges faced by veteran-owned businesses. Legislative advocacy can provide critical support for these enterprises, and a national Invest In Veterans Week proclamation can help create the momentum needed to create lasting change. We urge legislators to take action and prioritize legislation that supports veteran-owned businesses. Together, we can create a brighter future for
Jeff Shuford is an Iraq War veteran, nationally syndicated columnist, and co-founder of National Invest in Veterans Week. He's a thought leader in digital marketing and a powerful advocate for veteran entrepreneurs. Under his leadership, National Invest in Veterans Week has become a force in the world of entrepreneurship. The South Carolina Senate recognized his advocacy by issuing a proclamation in 2021.
Veteran Entrepreneurship: The Key to Boosting the Economy and Supporting Our Heroes. Here's How Legislators Can Take Action
Veteran entrepreneurship can play a significant role in boosting the economy and supporting our heroes. Here are some ways that legislators can take action to support veteran entrepreneurship.
As a society, we bear responsibility for the men and women who have served our country. When these courageous individuals transition to civilian life, it is imperative that we do everything we can to support them in their endeavors. One way we can do this is by supporting veteran entrepreneurs. Veteran entrepreneurs are an integral part of the economy, contributing to job creation and economic growth. However, they often face extraordinary challenges when starting and growing their businesses, such as navigating the civilian business ecosystem and adapting to new business trends and technological advancements. By providing resources and support to veteran entrepreneurs, legislators can help these heroes succeed and contribute to the overall prosperity of their communities.
There are numerous reasons why legislators should support veteran entrepreneurs. Here are a few to consider before diving into the local economic benefits of supporting veteran entrepreneurs.
Veteran entrepreneurs contribute to economic growth: Veteran entrepreneurs are a vital part of the economy and contribute to job creation and economic growth. By supporting veteran entrepreneurs, legislators can help to stimulate local economies and promote a prosperous economy.
Veteran entrepreneurs face unique challenges: Transitioning from military to civilian life can be challenging, and veteran entrepreneurs often face distinctive challenges when starting and growing their businesses. Legislators can help to level the playing field by providing resources and support for these entrepreneurs.
Supporting veteran entrepreneurs is good for society: In addition to the economic benefits, supporting veteran entrepreneurs is also good for society as a whole. Veteran entrepreneurs often bring valuable skills and experiences to their businesses, and their success can have a positive impact on their communities.
It is the right thing to do: Finally, supporting veteran entrepreneurs is simply the right thing to do. These individuals have served our country and deserve our support as they transition to civilian life and pursue their entrepreneurial goals.
By supporting veteran entrepreneurs, legislators can help these heroes succeed and contribute to the overall well-being of their communities and the country. In addition to the economic benefits, supporting veteran entrepreneurs is also a benefit for society as a whole.
Below, we will explore the many reasons why legislators should support veteran entrepreneurs along with the specific ways that they can take action to help these heroes thrive in the civilian economy.
There are many ways that legislators can support veteran entrepreneurs in their transition from military to civilian life. Here are a few examples:
Provide funding for veteran-owned businesses: Legislators can allocate funds specifically for veteran entrepreneurs to start or grow their businesses. This can be in the form of grants, loans, or other types of financial assistance.
Create tax incentives for veteran entrepreneurs: Legislators can also create tax incentives for veteran entrepreneurs, such as tax breaks or credits for starting or growing a business.
Offer resources and training: Legislators can work with organizations that provide resources and training for veteran entrepreneurs, such as mentorship programs, business planning workshops, and networking events.
Promote veteran-owned businesses: Legislators can also help promote veteran-owned businesses by highlighting their success stories and encouraging the public to support them.
Create policies that support veteran entrepreneurs: Legislators can also create policies that make it easier for veteran entrepreneurs to start and grow their businesses, such as streamlined licensing processes or reduced fees.
Partnering with veteran-focused organizations: Legislators could consider partnering with veteran-focused organizations, such as veteran service organizations or military-focused incubators, to support veteran entrepreneurs. These organizations often have valuable resources and expertise that could be leveraged to help veteran entrepreneurs succeed.
Offering targeted technical assistance: Legislators could consider offering targeted technical assistance to veteran entrepreneurs in specific industries or sectors. For example, a legislator might work with a local university or business development center to provide specialized training or mentorship for veteran entrepreneurs in the tech industry.
Providing support for veteran entrepreneurs who are also farmers: Many veteran entrepreneurs are interested in starting or growing farms or agricultural businesses. Legislators could consider providing resources and support specifically for these entrepreneurs, such as funding for equipment or training in sustainable farming practices.
Supporting veteran entrepreneurs who are also minority-owned businesses: Legislators could also consider supporting veteran entrepreneurs who are also minority-owned businesses, as these entrepreneurs may face additional challenges in starting and growing their businesses.
Encouraging federal contracting opportunities for veteran-owned businesses: Finally, legislators could work to increase federal contracting opportunities for veteran-owned businesses. This could include lobbying for changes to federal procurement policies or working with federal agencies to increase their outreach to veteran entrepreneurs.
In conclusion, veteran entrepreneurs deserve our support and appreciation. These heroes have served our country and now bring valuable skills and experiences to the civilian economy. By supporting veteran entrepreneurs, legislators can help these individuals succeed and contribute to the overall prosperity of their communities.
Essentially, there are many ways that legislators can support veteran entrepreneurs, including providing funding, creating tax incentives, offering resources and training, promoting veteran-owned businesses, and creating policies that make it easier for these entrepreneurs to start and grow their businesses. By taking action in these areas, legislators can make a real difference in the lives of veteran entrepreneurs and help them thrive in the civilian economy.
We encourage legislators to consider the many benefits of supporting veteran entrepreneurship and to take action to support these heroes as they transition from military to civilian life. Together, we can create a brighter future for veteran entrepreneurs and their communities.
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