From Combat Engineer to Mentor: Jozue’s Online Flores MBA Journey

Transitioning from military service to civilian life can be challenging, but U.S. Army veteran and first-generation American Jozue Chaires has leveraged his experience to carve out a new path in workforce development.  After a decade of service, including deployments to Afghanistan and Iraq, Jozue has shifted his focus toward helping fellow veterans transition successfully into the workforce— all of which led him to pursue the online Flores MBA from LSU. In his journey, Jozue is preparing to lead in the business world while using the skills from his MBA to mentor others and create a real impact. 
 
Read on to learn more about Jozue's experience in the program and how it's helping him turn his skills into business success. 

Meet Jozue Chaires 

 
Can you tell us about your background, particularly your work with the military, and how it led you to pursue an MBA? 

My name is Jozue Chaires. I am a first-generation American born in Los Angeles, California. I grew up in inner-city Long Beach and graduated from Cabrillo High School (the same school district the Freedom Writers movie was based on). Upon graduation, I enlisted in the U.S. Army as a Combat Engineer and attended one-station unit training at Fort Leonard Wood, MO. From there, I was assigned to Fort Bragg, North Carolina, where I deployed to Afghanistan in 2012 as a part of the 20th Engineer Brigade and again to Iraq while assigned to the historic 82nd Airborne Division.  
 
I recently transitioned out of the military in 2023, and I created a workforce development training program here in El Paso to help others do the same. I pursued my MBA because of my interest in advancing in workforce development and other business functions.  

How has LSU's recognition of prior learning credits impacted your MBA journey? 

The prior learning credit helped me get my MBA much faster. It also allowed me to bypass other classes in which I already have a high technical proficiency, such as project management and operations management.  

How has the online program's flexibility helped you balance your responsibilities, military commitments, and academic goals? 

The flexibility in the program has allowed me to work full-time and be a full-time student, ensuring my family's way of life is maintained. More importantly, the activity-based aspect of the program makes it possible to manage my own time and still complete necessary coursework. 

What advice would you give to fellow military members considering higher education? 

My advice to military members seeking higher education is not to waste your time. Go to a recognized institution with established, world-renowned programs such as the online LSU Flores MBA. The student service I have received has been outstanding, and as a veteran, I feel supported by LSU. Most importantly, I am putting everything I learn to use and preparing to be a business leader in the workforce. 

In what ways do you think your Flores MBA will enhance your ability to teach and mentor others, especially within the military? 

The Flores MBA has already yielded results for me as a program manager. I am proud to say I run the only Project Management Career Skills program in the U.S. Army. 

Elevate Your Leadership Practice with the Online Flores MBA 

The online Flores MBA from the LSU E.J. Ourso College of Business provides working professionals like Jozue the tools to excel in today's fast-paced business world. With a 100% online format, this program can fit into your busy schedule without derailing your career goals. The online Flores MBA is perfect for professionals who want to hone their expertise in areas like project management and operations while building essential leadership skills. 
 
Whether you're transitioning out of the military or looking to advance in your current career, this online MBA offers the flexibility, support, and knowledge to help you succeed. 
 
Ready to take control of your future and become the business leader you're meant to be? Learn more about the online Flores MBA, and apply today!