Ex-Marine helps veterans grow

Councilman teaches personal development.Gauntlet Development guides move to civilian life.

Contact this contributing writer at nancykburr@aol.com.

When Troy City Councilman Brock Heath wanted to help fellow veterans, he wrote a book on how to succeed in the civilian world.

When he wanted to increase the assistance he was offering with personal development, he expanded a side business into a career.

Heath is a 1998 Troy High School graduate who served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1998-2002. He recently left the banking industry to work full time at Gauntlet Development.

He created the company in 2013 to assist individuals, companies and groups with personal development. He’s available as a motivational speaker and offers business and individual training in leadership and personal development.

Of particular focus is personal coaching for veterans.

“There are a lot of veterans coming back now, looking to move things to the next level but are just not sure how to do that,” Heath said. “They are absolute go-getters in the military. Then they come out, after receiving orders for years, and the orders stop. Some of them get stuck.”

Heath is committed to helping these fellow veterans move along in their lives at the pace and level they desire. He often meets the veteran through a loved one who hears about his services or the book.

His book, “How to Succeed in the Civilian World, For Military Veterans,” provides guidance on topics such as mindset and networking. He also works with individuals on job placement, if needed.

Some people in the program are self pay, while Heath looks for sponsorships, usually from companies, for some veterans. “There is a list for those waiting for sponsors. This is a good thing because it shows veterans want to open up,” he said.

He’s thinking of writing a similar book for civilians.

“The concepts can be for anyone. It’s as simple as: If you fall down, get back up, “ he said.

In addition to his work, Heath is active in the community, including serving as chairman of the Troy Festival of Nations with his wife, Leyla. Aside from being a city councilman, he is involved in other activities, including several through the local Chamber of Commerce. He has two daughters, Majo and Adriana, and the family has two dogs.

For more information on Heath and Gauntlet Development, go online to www.gauntletdevelopment.com. Those interested specifically in sponsoring a veteran should email sponsorship@gauntletdevelopment.com.

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