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From the Army to the Logistics Lounge | Robert "Pedro" Petersen | Ep 23

Episode Details

Many military veterans wonder how to transition from the Army to a logistics career. With skills in transportation, fleet operations, and leadership, veterans are well-equipped for roles in trucking, freight brokerage, and supply chain management. In Episode 23 of The Miles and Mentors Podcast, host Alex Powers sits down with Robert “Pedro” Petersen, co-host of The Logistics Lounge Podcast, to discuss how military experience translates into logistics leadership, trucking careers, and mentorship.

Pedro shares his 19-year journey, from serving as a Motor Transport Operator (88M) in the Army to building a successful career in logistics and media. His insights on transitioning from military service to civilian logistics roles provide valuable guidance for veterans, industry professionals, and aspiring logistics leaders.

If you are a military veteran looking to start a logistics career, an employer seeking skilled logistics professionals, or a trucking industry expert looking for mentorship, this episode is filled with practical strategies and career advice.

Episode Highlights

  • Pedro’s start in logistics as a Motor Transport Operator (88M) in the Army
  • Transitioning from driver to logistics office roles
  • How military experience prepares veterans for trucking and logistics
  • Why mentorship is crucial for logistics career success
  • The future of logistics and how technology will shape the industry

Steps to Transition from the Army to a Logistics Career

For many veterans, logistics and transportation careers are a natural next step after military service. Here are some practical steps to transition successfully.

  1. Identify Transferable Skills – Military personnel often have experience in supply chain operations, dispatching, fleet maintenance, and leadership. These skills align with logistics management, trucking, and warehouse operations.

  2. Earn Certifications – Many logistics roles require CDLs (for trucking), logistics management training, or supply chain certifications. Veterans can utilize GI Bill benefits to get certified.

  3. Leverage Veteran Hiring Programs – Companies like Werner, Schneider, and JB Hunt actively recruit veterans for logistics and trucking positions. Look for veteran-friendly logistics companies.

  4. Network in the Industry – Engaging with mentorship programs, industry podcasts (like The Logistics Lounge), and veteran job fairs can open doors to logistics careers.

  5. Consider Entrepreneurship – Many veterans start their own trucking companies, freight brokerages, or logistics consulting businesses, using their military background as an advantage.

Military Skills That Transfer to a Logistics Career

Many Army veterans have skills that directly apply to logistics, trucking, and supply chain management. Some of the key skills that help veterans excel in logistics careers include:

  • Leadership and Decision Making – Managing fleet operations, dispatching, and strategic planning
  • Supply Chain and Transportation Knowledge – Experience with transporting goods, warehouse logistics, and inventory control
  • Problem-Solving Under Pressure – Making real-time decisions in high-stakes environments
  • Discipline and Efficiency – Operating with structured workflows and tight deadlines

These skills make veterans highly valuable in trucking, freight brokerage, and supply chain roles, with many companies offering veteran hiring programs in logistics.

About Our Guest

Robert “Pedro” Petersen is a logistics industry expert and co-host of The Logistics Lounge Podcast. With nearly two decades of experience, Pedro transitioned from a career as a Motor Transport Operator in the Army to becoming a leader in logistics media and mentorship.

As the co-founder of The Logistics Lounge, Pedro is passionate about helping veterans, fleet managers, and trucking professionals navigate their careers and stay ahead in an ever-changing industry.

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