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Event

Kick off SOF Week 2025 in style.

The Honor Foundation pre-game reception & networking session

Tuesday May 6, 2025 | 5:00 PM-7:00 PM | CAMLS Center Auditorium, 2nd Floor

Join us right across from the convention center at the University of South Florida CAMLS campus—your perfect launchpad for SOF Week.

Get ready for an unbeatable mix of networking and insider insights at this exclusive pre-game event hosted by The Honor Foundation. Designed for industry powerhouses, military leaders, and transitioning veterans, this reception brings together THF alumni, active-duty personnel, and top industry pros for a night of connection and inspiration. Our expert panel—stacked with veteran trailblazers and industry titans—will unpack the secrets to thriving post-service, from entrepreneurship to cutting-edge tech careers and more.

Please fill out our registration form if you plan to attend this free event.

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Event Details

Tailored for THF Fellows, transitioning veterans eyeing SkillBridge, and industry leaders hunting top talent. We’re anticipating 150 military and corporate heavyweights—be part of the action.

What to expect:

Launch SOF Week with a high-energy reception featuring a catered spread and open bar. The night starts with opening remarks from notable military officials, followed by a no-nonsense panel of industry leaders and veterans sharing their proven playbooks for transitioning from active duty to civilian success. Got questions? This is your shot to grill the experts.

Why Attend?

For industry leaders: Scout elite talent ready to fuel your next big win. For military personnel: Grab the insights and connections to nail your civilian pivot. For all: Enjoy great food, drinks, and conversations that matter. RSVP now—this is where the future of military-to-civilian success takes off.

Event Schedule

5:00pm-5:30pm

Registration and networking

5:30pm-6:00pm

Moderated panel discussion

6:00pm-6:30pm

Live Q&A with panelists

6:30pm-7:00pm

Networking with premium food and drinks

Expert voices: Trailblazing panelists TBD

Stay tuned to meet the seasoned leaders and veteran innovators shaping the future of post-service success.

Christian Knutzen

Founder of Three Forks Wood Reclamation

St. Petersburg FL

Christian Knutzen transitioned from a robust military career at U.S. Special Operations Command, where he served as a Portfolio Manager and Program Assessments Officer, to launching entrepreneurial ventures in wood reclamation and operations consulting. With experience from The Honor Foundation’s Military Transition Program and fellowships at EY and Disney, he’s adept at bridging military skills with civilian success. Christian will offer transitioning veterans practical advice on entrepreneurship and carving a unique career path post-service.

Robert Teagle

Manager at Ernst & Young Global Consulting Services

Robert Teagle brings extensive leadership experience from his time with USSOCOM and the Special Operations Joint Task Force-Afghanistan, where he excelled in strategic planning and crisis management. Transitioning from a decorated military career, including roles as an Executive Advisor and Leader in the U.S. Army, he now guides organizations with expertise in logistics and compliance. At the reception, Robert will share actionable insights for veterans aiming to succeed in consulting and beyond.

Bianca Philson

J6 Future Operations Planner, General Dynamics Information Technology

Bianca brings 15 years of U.S. Army leadership experience to the panel, currently serving as J6 Future Operations Planner at General Dynamics Information Technology, where she drives IT innovation and operational strategy. With a background spanning IT management, mentorship, and transformative tech initiatives, she’s passionate about guiding veterans toward thriving civilian careers. Her insights will inspire transitioning service members with practical strategies for success in cutting-edge tech roles.

Zachary Elliott

Co-lead Veterans ERO Global Growth and Acceleration and Leader MISL Program, Cisco

Zach draws on over 12 years of experience and a decade in the U.S. Air Force to empower veterans in tech careers. He designs programs that guide transitioning service members into engineering, sales, and leadership roles, leveraging his expertise as a former Technical Solutions Architect. Zach will share proven strategies to help veterans thrive in cutting-edge civilian tech opportunities.

Event location

University of South Florida CAMLS Center Auditorium, 2nd Floor

124 S Franklin Street, Tampa, FL

Head across the street from the Tampa Convention Center. Enter on Brorein Street and proceed to the 2nd floor for the auditorium.

 

Click here for Google Maps.

 

 

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