Veteran Entrepreneur: Courtney Ripoll-McBride, Owner, Ripollsworkshop

Written by: Brady Drake

Courtney Ripoll-McBride is the owner/operator of Ripollsworkshop LLC. With her business, Ripoll-McBride works as a financial coach. She is also currently in the process of launching bookkeeping services for small businesses. In addition to her entrepreneurial efforts, Ripoll-McBride is a stay-at-home mom and a full-time student in her final year of Accounting.

“I love helping families and small businesses find ways to put money back in their pockets,” says Ripoll-McBride

What was your first job once you finished your service?

I became a full-time student, then a stay-at-home mother.

What led you to military service?

I decided to join the service right out of high school versus going into college. One of my decision points was I came from a military family and I wanted to be able to maintain the same path of service as my family members.

Did you take advantage of military benefits when starting your business?

Yes, VBOC has been so helpful with connecting me with resources to further my business. I also took advantage of the Boots to Business Program.

What skill that you learned in your military service do you use most in your business career?

In the military, I was in the IT field. Now, I have transitioned to finances. The skill I would say that I use the most is collaboration and working with other people from all walks of life.

Would you have been able to start a business without your military experience? Why or why not?

I benefited from my military experience by building a foundation of dedication and confidence. Which helped to work towards my goal of opening my own business.

What words of encouragement do you have for a fellow veteran nervous about taking the plunge into entrepreneurship – or maybe a veteran who started a business and is struggling?

There are so many great resources out there that are available to you to utilize while starting or opening your business. Don’t give up, there are going to be some bumps along the way. Always remember to use your resources. I strongly recommend looking into networking with other veterans and veteran groups that have similar goals.

Many veterans struggle with finding a sense of purpose when reintegrating into the civilian world. How can getting involved in the business community help with that reintegration process?

The business community is an amazing community to join, network and meet with people who have similar goals as you. I would recommend quickly establishing yourself in the field that you are joining in order to keep up the same passion and energy moving forward.

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Brady is the Editorial Director at Spotlight Media in Fargo, ND.