Special Operators Transition Foundation

AI can improve presentation, but it cannot manufacture substance.

We're entering an AI hiring arms race.

Candidates use AI to optimize resumes. Employers use AI to screen them. Yet exceptional talent can still be overlooked when hiring becomes a keyword-matching exercise.

Special Operations veterans are a great example. Many use AI to translate years of leadership, decision-making, risk management, and mission ex*****on into language the private sector understands. That's a smart use of technology.

But a polished resume is only the invitation.

The qualities that drive long-term success, such as character, judgment, adaptability, humility, and the ability to lead under pressure, can't be generated by AI.

The best hiring leaders look beyond formatting and ask better questions:

• Can this person perform in ambiguity?
• Can they solve problems when conditions change?
• Can they build trust quickly?
• Can they elevate the people around them?

AI can help people communicate their value. It cannot create value where it doesn't exist. Technology should enhance human judgment, not replace it.

What qualities do you look for that no resume or AI tool can fully capture?

Kerry Black
SOTF Director of Corporate Engagement
Phase III Coach

The SOTF Team is excited to announce Tyrelle Robinson has successfully transitioned into a Full Stack Developer with Logistics Management Institute (LMI).

Tyrelle Robinson is a seasoned Special Operations leader who recently completed service from the U.S. Army as a Staff Sergeant after 8 years of selfless service.

A snapshot of some of Tyrelle's accomplishments includes:

🇺🇸 During his tenure, he served as both a PSYOP team leader and PSYOP team member in the 7th Psychological Operations Battalion, supporting operations in the Middle East and across Africa. He later served as a Software Engineer at 1st Special Forces Command, contributing to operationally focused software solutions.

🇺🇸 Tyrelle brings a mission-focused approach to problem-solving, leveraging his experience working with diverse stakeholders to translate real-world needs into effective, user-focused solutions.

🇺🇸 Tyrelle holds a Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering, is a Palantir American Tech Fellowship Honor Graduate, and holds multiple technical certifications spanning cloud, networking, and foundational IT systems.

🇺🇸 Outside of work, Tyrelle dedicates most of his personal time to bowhunting, jiu jitsu, and spending time with his wife and son.

"The SOTF Team provided outstanding mentorship and was always available with timely, practical advice. Their guidance was instrumental in helping me refine my interview approach and successfully navigate the job offer process. I especially appreciated their tailored and 24/7 support for my unique situation, as well as the networking events that created meaningful opportunities to connect with industry professionals and other fellows. This level of support made a direct impact on my transition. I highly encourage anyone transitioning out of uniform to take full advantage of everything SOTF has to offer."

To learn more about Tyrelle’s incredible journey, connect with him on LinkedIn.

"Soldiers, Sailors, and Airmen of the Allied Expeditionary Force! The eyes of the world are upon you. The hopes and prayers of liberty loving people everywhere march with you."
-Dwight D. Eisenhower, June 6, 1944

Eighty two years ago today, more than 156,000 Allied troops landed in Normandy in one of the most significant military operations in history. Eisenhower's words were directed not to generals or politicians, but to soldiers, sailors, and airmen. Many were barely out of high school. Some were still teenagers.

They answered a call greater than themselves, knowing the risks and carrying the hopes of a free world.

Today, we remember those who sacrificed everything on D Day, and we honor the men and women who continue to serve our nation in uniform. The courage, commitment, and selfless service that defined that generation can still be found in today's military community.

As a veteran transition foundation, we believe supporting service members as they move into their next chapter is one way we honor the legacy of those who came before them. The freedoms we have enjoyed for nearly 250 years were secured by generations willing to serve, sacrifice, and lead.

We remember their sacrifice. We honor their service. We continue their legacy.

The SOTF team is excited to announce our Task Force Lead for the Dallas–Fort Worth region, Stephen Cortez. His motivation and drive to support our commitment to our Fellows and Alumni are steadfast and strong.

Stephen Cortez served as a Critical Skills Operator (Marine Raider) with 10 years of service in the United States Marine Corps, spending the majority of his career within Marine Corps Special Operations Command (MARSOC), where he held specialized roles as a Scout Sniper, JTAC, Communications Specialist, Military Free Fall Parachutist, and Combatant Diver. Throughout his service, he completed rigorous courses demonstrating his ability to rapidly learn, execute, and lead complex tasks while operating under significant physical and mental pressure. His experience in special operations developed a strong foundation in leadership, problem-solving, emotional intelligence, adaptability, and operating under extreme pressure in complex environments.

Following his transition from active-duty service, Stephen earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance with a concentration in Real Estate from Texas Christian University and then entered into the home building industry where he works as a Community Sales Manager for Graham Hart Home Builder.

Stephen remains committed to supporting the mission of the Special Operations Transition Foundation (SOTF) because of the direct impact the organization had on his own transition from military service. As an SOTF Fellow, he gained mentorship, professional development, and access to a network of high-performing leaders that helped him successfully navigate the transition into the private sector. He is passionate about helping other SOF veterans successfully navigate their next chapter in life and is committed to serving them as the SOTF Task Force Lead for the Dallas-Fort Worth region, where he aims to create meaningful impact for current SOTF Fellows exploring opportunities and building their next endeavors within the region.

Welcome to the SOTF Task Force, Stephen! We’re so glad to have you with us and grateful for your support.

⛳SOTF Annual Charity Golf Tournament

August 17, 2026
Old Natchez Country Club | Franklin, TN

Join SOTF for a day on the course filled with patriotism, competition, and purpose. The tournament features all-inclusive play, hole activations from local Tennessee businesses, fun on-course competitions, and appearances from SOTF Special Operators throughout the course.

Bring your company, clients, or colleagues and take your business to the green while supporting our nation’s military heroes and their families.

Register now to tee up your spot: https://hubs.ly/Q04jz3TX0