For Joel Vazquez, leadership was forged over more than two decades in the U.S. Marine Corps. For Isaac Mastel, it was shaped through years of high-intensity deployments with the Army’s 75th Ranger Regiment.
Now, both are applying those lessons in a new arena: graduate business education at the University of Miami Patti and Allan Herbert Business School.
Vazquez, who retired as a gunnery sergeant after more than 21 years of service, said his military experience continues to guide how he approaches leadership today.
“I was very big on doing the right thing when no one’s watching,” he said.
After transitioning to civilian life at the end of the COVID-19 pandemic, Vazquez entered Miami Herbert’s Executive Doctorate in Business Administration program, where he has found both academic rigor and a strong support system. The program, he said, has helped him connect his military leadership training with business strategy. Today, he serves as the director of IT and training at Texas International Terminals in Galveston, Texas.
“Going back to school has allowed me to see those dotted lines and now straight lines,” he said.
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| Issac Mastel |
Mastel’s path was markedly different and led him to the Global Executive M.B.A. program. After more than a decade of continuous deployments and combat experience, he said the transition to civilian life was difficult.
“I really kind of struggled and had no real direction,” he said.
Eventually, Mastel pursued higher education, enrolling at Miami Herbert while building a new career. Today, he is launching a roofing and construction business, applying what he learns in the classroom in real time.
“It feels like everything has fit perfectly into what I’m doing outside of school,” he said.
Both veterans credit the programs, flexibility, faculty support, and collaborative environment for helping them translate military skills into business success.
For Vazquez, the experience has reinforced a lifelong commitment to growth and service.
“Don’t be complacent,” he said. “If you want to do something, you have to get out there and do it.”
Mastel echoed that sentiment, noting that the program has given him the confidence to take risks and pursue new opportunities.
“It’s given me the courage to make that initial investment and really start growing,” he said.
As they continue their academic and professional journeys, both see their next chapter as an extension of their service. It is one focused not only on personal success but also on building and leading others.
For veterans considering a similar path, the message is clear: The skills developed in service can translate far beyond it.
“You’re going to learn a lot, and you’re going to be supported,” Mastel said, adding that Miami Herbert’s graduate programs also push students to keep moving forward. “Don’t stop pushing to achieve your dreams and goals.”