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MEET OUR TEAM

We are a collective of unique skills and diverse backgrounds, but we come together as a singular team bound by a passion for assisting our service members and veterans.
Shelby Mounts

Executive Director,
U.S. Navy Veteran

Allen Whiteside

Programs Director,
U.S. Marine Corps Veteran

William Prom

Development Director,
U.S. Marine Corps Veteran

Chris Brown

Southeast Regional Expansion Supervisor,
U.S. Navy Veteran

Charles Bischoff

North Texas Manager,
U.S. Army Veteran

Anthony Dominguez

Programs Operation Manager,
U.S. Marines Corp Veteran

Adam Forbes

Aerospace & Defense Program Manager,
U.S. Air Force Veteran

Patrick McManus

Assistant Aerospace & Defense
Program Manager,
U.S. Air Force Veteran

Erica Shaw

Tennessee Expansion Manager,
U.S. Marine Corps Veteran

Maddie Zimmermann

Marketing Manager

Melvin Jackson

Employment Coordinator,
U.S. Marine Corps Veteran

Stephen Sider

Employment Coordinator,
U.S. Navy Veteran

Lawren Johnson

Employment Coordinator,
U.S. Army Veteran

Paul Levya

Employment Coordinator,
U.S. Marine Corps Veteran

Kieron Coulon

Employment Coordinator,
U.S. Navy Veteran

Frank E. Ketchem III

Employment Coordinator,
U.S. Army Veteran

LEARN MORE

NextOp is a nonprofit organization engineered to meet the unprecedented employment challenges and opportunities facing military members and veterans today.
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Address: P.O. Box 266, Houston, TX 77001

Email: info@nextopvets.org

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HONORS RECEIVED

Best for Vets Employers 2023 Military Times Logo
Best for Vets Military Times 2024 Logo
U.S. Department of Labor Platinum Logo
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ABOUT NextOp

NextOp works one-on-one with enlisted service members and veterans to help translate military training and experiences into valued qualifications in the business community.

Shelby Mounts

Executive Director

Shelby Mounts brings more than 30 years of experience in Defense and Industry leadership roles to NextOp Veterans.

His private industry roles include CEO of Riverside Consulting Services, LLC, a small, independent Government Consulting services company, Chief Commercial Officer and EVP of Sales for Vita Inclinata Technologies, and Director of Defense Aerospace and Maritime Business Development at Allegheny Technologies Inc (ATI). In each case, the focus was development of relationships, positive outcomes and growth.

Shelby’s Government experience included service in the US Navy for 25 years, where he retired as a Captain. After graduating from Annapolis with a Bachelor of Science degree, Shelby served four years as a Surface Warfare Officer, including deployed time in South America, the Caribbean, Europe and the Middle East, then was selected to attend US Navy Flight School.

After earning his wings as a helicopter pilot, Shelby progressed as a pilot and officer, accumulating 2500 flight hours as an operator and two time instructor. This period included numerous deployments to the Middle East and Western Pacific Ocean supporting Navy and Marine Corps operations from San Diego,CA, Guam, and Japan, and a tour leading a helicopter squadron with 500 people and 19 helicopters in Norfolk, VA.

His staff assignments included a joint assignment at US Special Operations Command in Tampa, FL, two tours at the Pentagon in a variety of Navy Staff resourcing and operations positions, and a special assignment as a Secretary of Defense Corporate Fellow at Shell Oil in New Orleans, LA. Shelby also completed a Master of Science through the University of San Diego Business School.

ALLEN WHITESIDE

Programs Director

Allen is the Programs Director for NextOp and was named to his current position in August, 2021.

Allen joined the United States Marine Corps and served in various operational roles, including three deployments where he, as Senior Enlisted Advisor to Marine Corps Logistics Command (Afghanistan), managed the global distribution network supporting the Marine Corps’ Logistics Reset Strategy. He also served as the Operations Manager for the Marine Corps’ Maritime Prepositioning Program, which encompassed transportation and distribution networks across domestics and various international locations. Allen retired from the Marine Corps after 23 years of honorable service.

Allen then transitioned into management positions in a variety of industries, most recently at a global software company where he led teams in both North and South America.

Allen earned a Bachelor of Science in Management and is a Certified Project Manager with the Project Management Institute (PMI). Allen enjoys volunteering through coaching youth sports and serving as a mentor. He is an avid football fan, “Go Texans” and enjoys running in his spare time. Allen and his wife Frances have been married for 27 years and have two children.

WILLIAM PROM

Development Director

William Prom grew up in New Berlin, WI and graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 2009 with a B.S. in History (with Honors).  While at USNA, William competed in Varsity Cross Country and Track and Field (Indoor and Outdoor) and was the 2008 Cross Country Team Captain.  William commissioned into the Marine Corps in 2009 and spent the next five years as an Artillery Officer.  In 2012, he deployed to Helmand Province, Afghanistan as a Fire Direction Officer and in 2013/14 he deployed on the 13th Expeditionary Unit as the Fire Support Coordinator for Battalion Landing Team 1/4.

After leaving the Marine Corps in 2014, William briefly spent time racing marathons professionally and coaching cross country and track before beginning a career in writing.  He worked as a writer for CareerPro Global, Inc. where he focused on supporting servicemembers transitioning out of active duty and veterans seeking federal employment.  William has published dozens of articles in print and online with topics ranging from military history and national defense to athletics and biography.  His written work can be found in Naval History magazine, with the Center for International Maritime Security, and elsewhere.  His research has also been presented in the Proceedings Podcast from the U.S. Naval Institute and at the Houston Maritime Center.

William lives in the Woodlands with his wife, Emily, and their two children.

Chris Brown

Louisiana Regional Expansion Manager

Chris is the Louisiana Regional Expansion Manager for NextOp and was named to his current position in February, 2021.

Chris Brown is from Portland, Maine and comes from a family with extensive military service. Chris started his Naval service in August of 1998 under the Navy’s Delayed Entry Program. After his graduation from Mess Management School, he reported to the USS Porter DDG 78 pre-commissioning unit as Mess Management Specialist Seaman. He then advanced to Petty Officer Third Class and took charge of the Wardroom, prepping it for a turnover with the shipyard. After several sea trials and a six month deployment to the Mediterranean, he advanced to Second Class Petty Officer.

In August 2001, Chris transitioned to military recruitment. He served in Levittown, Huntingdon Valley, NRD San Francisco, and Northern CA as the Recruiter in Charge until 2010. He then attended instructor training school, earning the Navy Enlisted Certification 9502. He served as an Enlisted Recruiting Instructor, Senior Chief Petty Officer, Master Training Specialist and Assistant Chief Recruiter until 2018. After his retirement from the military, he started at Ochsner Health as a Talent Acquisition Recruiter.

Chris and his wife Stephanie reside in Mandeville, LA with their four teenage children.

CHARLES BISCHOFF

North Texas Expansion Manager

Charles is the North Texas Expansion Manager for NextOp and was named to his current position in May 2024.

Charles was born in Chicago, Illinois but grew up in Port Charlotte, Florida. He joined the United States Army shortly after high school. Charles served as a healthcare professional during his tenure, including serving as a combat medic where he deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan and clinic administrator for both primary and specialty care clinics at a level III trauma hospital. Charles was medically retired after eight years of honorable service.

Charles and his family relocated to Houston where he shifted his focus from business and clinical administration to veteran services. Most recently serving as a Peer Service Coordinator for Texas Veterans Commission’s Veteran Mental Health Department’s Military Veteran Peer Network.

Charles has been recognized for being a mental health advocate, openly sharing his own personal struggles and successes. Charles enjoys everything fitness and sports related, from CrossFit to basketball. He is also an avid motorcycle rider. Charles and his wife Alexa have been married for thirteen years and have two young children.

ANTHONY DOMINGUEZ

Program Operations Manager

With over two decades of leadership experience, Anthony is a seasoned manager and self-motivated leader who excels in collaborative environments. His career embodies a steadfast pursuit of results and a dedication to excellence. A Veteran of both Iraq and Afghanistan, Anthony deployed six times during his military service and holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Columbia College of Missouri.

During his tenure with the U.S. Marine Corps from 1996 to 2019, he honed his leadership and operational skills at every rank from Private to Master Sergeant.

Transitioning to the corporate sector in 2019, he embraced diverse roles, making measurable impacts in various functions and companies.

Throughout his career, he has adeptly led high-performing teams both domestically and internationally, solving complex problems. With a cross-cultural understanding, his approach is deeply rooted in fostering relationships, recognizing people as the cornerstone of success.


Anthony’s journey epitomizes a relentless pursuit of excellence, a commitment to collaborative success, and a consistent track record of driving results. As a results-driven leader, he is primed to tackle tomorrow’s challenges and continue leaving a positive impact in all his endeavors.

ADAM FORBES

Aerospace & Defense Program Manager

Adam is the Aerospace & Defense Program Manager for NextOp and was named to his current position in March 2024.

Adam is from Willis, Texas where he enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1999. He served for over 21 years in which he held positions as Aircraft Electrical & Environmental Craftsman, Instructor, Flight Chief, Flightline Expediter, First Sergeant, Production Superintendent, and
Maintenance Superintendent. He has been deployed multiple times in various locations around the world working on aircraft such as C-17’s, F-16’s, KC-135’s, and B-52’s until 2020 when he officially retired.
 
Since the Air Force Adam has held jobs as Logistics Manager for PAE at Texas A&M University, Program Manager for Wave Neuroscience at Texas A&M University, as well as Corporate Sales and Account Management for Wave Neuroscience.
 
Adam currently resides in Montgomery, Texas with his two daughters. He earned his Master’s degree in Human Resources and enjoys following most sports.

PATRICK McMANUS

Aerospace & Defense Assistant Program Manager

Patrick is the Aerospace & Defense Assistant Program Manager for NextOp and he was named to his current position in May 2024. Before this position, he served as an Employment Coordinator at NextOp for five years.

A Louisiana native, Patrick enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1991 and retired in 2011. Throughout his distinguished military career, he supported key operations including Operation Sea Signal, Task Force Katrina, Operation Deep Freeze and Operation Enduring Freedom. Following his retirement, Patrick transitioned to the civilian sector as a project manager specializing in commercial diving equipment.

In addition to his professional roles, Patrick is a member of the American Legion and serves as a trustee for the New Orleans VFW Post 8973.

ERICA SHAW

Tennessee Expansion Manager

Erica is the Tenneessee Expansion Manager and was named to her current position in September 2023.

Erica Shaw is a distinguished Marine Corps Veteran with a passion for service and leadership. A Memphis native, Erica served over eleven years active duty earning numerous awards and medals. She served in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, and achieved the rank of Gunnery Sergeant.

After transitioning from active duty, Erica continued her dedication to the military community in various civilian roles, ensuring that military members and their families have access to essential programs, services, resources, and information. Her work has been pivotal in helping them navigate the unique challenges of military life.

Erica has made a significant impact in higher education by inspiring college students to find their intrinsic motivation and persist in their academic journeys as well as preparing them for life outside of college as working professionals.

Erica holds a Master of Arts in Leadership and Organizational Studies from Azusa Pacific University and a Bachelor of Science in Human Resources & Management from Park University.

Her extensive experience as a relationship builder and communicator positions her as a key asset at NextOp, where she continues to leverage her vast knowledge and skills to support and empower others.

MADDIE ZIMMERMANN

Programs Marketing Coordinator

Maddie is the Programs Marketing Coordinator for NextOp and was named to her current position in September, 2021.

Maddie Zimmermann is a proud graduate of Texas Christian University with experience in digital marketing and public relations. She is passionate about working for organizations with a focus on mission and service. Most recently, she contributed to the communication efforts for non-profit organizations like the College Advising Corps and the Kimbell Art Museum.

When she isn’t running social media accounts or strategizing email campaigns, you can find her in Fort Worth, Texas reading a good book or enjoying a long bike ride.

MELVIN JACKSON

Employment Coordinator

Melvin is an Employment Coordinator for NextOp and he was named to his current position in September 2022. 

Melvin is a native of Louisiana. He enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1999 and retired after 20 years of service. 

Melvin served in a variety of locations and billets. He served as a Motor Transport Operator in Camp Pendleton, a Line NCO and Dispatcher in Okinawa, Japan, and a Motor Transport Operator, Hazardous Waste Site Handler, Site Manager, and Training NCO at Camp Lejeune. He deployed to Iraq in 2008 as part of a truck detachment where he served as Platoon Sergeant and Convoy Commander and to Afghanistan, Helmand Province in 2011 as part of a truck detachment where he served as Motor Transport Liaison. 

In 2012, Melvin served as a canvassing recruiter working out of Marrero LA. Upon completion of recruiting duty, he was assigned to Marine Wing Support Squadron 274 Air Operation Company, as Motor Transportation Chief/Assistant Fuels Chief. After serving in that billet, he was assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron where he performed duties such as Range Safety Officer and Range Chief until his retirement.

Upon his retirement, Melvin sought employment as an instructor at Craven Community College, instructing in their employment readiness program. His education includes a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and he is currently pursuing a Master of Human Resources. 

Melvin lives in North Carolina with his wife, Coty Jackson and their three children.

STEPHEN SIDER

Employment Coordinator

Stephen is the Louisiana Employment Coordinator for NextOp and was named to his current position in April, 2021.

Stephen Sider is a native of Louisiana. He enlisted in the United States Navy in 1992 and retired in 2013. During his time in the Navy, he served in the Persian Gulf during Desert Shield. Stephen is well versed in leadership and team building. He served as a Navy recruiter for 15 years and gained extensive experience in sales, customer relations, and management.

Stephen holds a Master’s Degree in Leadership and Organizational Management from the University of Phoenix.

LAWREN JOHNSON

Employment Coordinator

Lawren is an Employment Coordinator for NextOp and was named to her current position in March 2024.

Lawren Johnson joined the United States Army in Houston, Texas shortly after graduating high school. Lawren honorably served in both the United States Army and Army Reserves in various healthcare administration and behavioral health roles. During her last years of service in the Army Reserves, she worked at the University of Houston as the Program Coordinator of Veteran Services. In this role, she developed a passion for helping veterans and their families transition
to from active service.

After 20 years of honorable service in the military, Lawren dedicated her professional efforts to developing talent strategies to connect employers to military veteran talent and career development programming that prepares transitioning service members and Veterans to
re-enter the civilian workforce. Lawren has a lifelong commitment to supporting the military-connected community. She continues her mission by empowering Veterans during their job search. She is known for her dedication to human capital development, inspiring and coaching others to reach their full potential.

She holds a bachelor’s degree from Stephen F. Austin State University and an MBA from the University of Houston-Downtown. Outside of work, Lawren enjoys spending quality time with her family and four-legged friends, and engaging in activities that bring joy and relaxation.

PAUL LEVYA

Employment Coordinator

Paul joined the United States Marine Corps and served in various operational roles, including one deployment where he, as a Non-Destructive Inspection (NDI) Technician,
performed various inspections on Marine aircrafts to maintain operational support in the ongoing military operations in Alasad, Iraq. He also served as the Operations Manager and Company Human Resources Manager for Task Force Resolve. A unit that was mobilized to help support the Marine Corps Recruit Depot for COVID relief. During this time Paul was widely recognized throughout the base as the battalion operational subject matter expert for the broader Task Force. During his tenure in this role, Paul was credited with increasing Recruit throughput during stressful infill and exfill events, reducing inventory shortages of training materials, and decreasing the time to complete logistical evolutions.

Paul retired from the Marine Corps after 20 years of honorable service. Paul then transitioned into technical positions in a variety of industries, most recently at
GE Healthcare where he was a Field Engineer for X-ray and Mammography systems.

Paul earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Columbia College. Paul enjoys volunteering through coaching youth softball and serving as a mentor. He is an avid
boxing and baseball fan, “Go Astros; Go Dodgers” and enjoys physical and outdoor activities. Paul and his wife Vanessa have been married for 19 years and have three children together.

KIERON COULON

Employment Coordinator

Kieron recently retired from the United States Navy after 23 years of distinguished service and brings a wealth of experience in talent acquisition, sales, training development, and operations management. Throughout his military career, he rose to the rank of Senior Chief Petty Officer, completing multiple deployments and earning commendations for his exemplary leadership, strategic planning skills, and mission accomplishments.

Kieron has a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (Management) from Post University and is currently pursuing a Masters of Education at William Carey University.

Beyond his professional pursuits, Kieron finds fulfillment in spending time with his family, engaging in softball leagues and fitness activities, and volunteering in low-income communities. He is deeply passionate about lifelong learning and constantly seek opportunities for personal growth.

FRANK E. KETCHAM III

Employment Coordinator

Frank is an Employment Coordinator for NextOp and he was named to his current position in October 2024.

Frank is a native of Tucson, Arizona. He enlisted in the United States Army in 1989 and retired after 22 years of service.

Throughout his time in the Army, Frank served in a variety of locations and roles. He served as a Training Noncommissioned Officer at Fort Wainwright, Alaska, Brigade S-1 with the Western Region ROTC at Fort Lewis, WA, and Postal Sergeant at Fort Huachuca, AZ. In 2005, he went on an individual deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) to Baghdad, Iraq where he served as Senior Human Resources Manager and Aide to the Chief of Staff for Multinational Forces Iraq. Frank deployed a second time in 2007-2008 in support of OIF with the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) out of Fort Campbell, KY. Frank spent his final three years of service in Massachusetts as the Operations Manager at the Military Entrance Processing Station in Boston, MA. In November 2011 Frank ended his tour of service and relocated to Clarksville, TN.

In 2012, Frank opened a few food businesses and went on to spend a few years as a defensive line coach at Austin Peay State University (APSU). For the past eight years, Frank served as the Manager of Career Services with Operation Stand Down Tennessee.

Frank and his wife Kelly have been married for 27 years and have two children. Kelly spent nine years in the military. Frank’s son served five years in the Army and his daughter is currently serving on active duty in the Air Force.

Frank completed his bachelor’s degree at APSU in Health and Human Performance and continued with his graduate studies in Leadership, Sports Wellness. In his free time Frank enjoys fishing and many other activities with his six year old granddaughter.

ALLEN WHITESIDE

Programs Director

Allen is the Programs Director for NextOp and was named to his current position in August, 2021.

Allen joined the United States Marine Corps and served in various operational roles, including three deployments where he, as Senior Enlisted Advisor to Marine Corps Logistics Command (Afghanistan), managed the global distribution network supporting the Marine Corps’ Logistics Reset Strategy. He also served as the Operations Manager for the Marine Corps’ Maritime Prepositioning Program, which encompassed transportation and distribution networks across domestics and various international locations. Allen retired from the Marine Corps after 23 years of honorable service. 

Allen then transitioned into management positions in a variety of industries, most recently at a global software company where he led teams in both North and South America.

Allen earned a Bachelor of Science in Management and is a Certified Project Manager with the Project Management Institute (PMI). Allen enjoys volunteering through coaching youth sports and serving as a mentor. He is an avid football fan, “Go Texans” and enjoys running in his spare time. Allen and his wife Frances have been married for 27 years and have two children.