Johnathan embodies service beyond the uniform. With 16 years in the U.S. Army as an Infantry and Civil Affairs leader, multiple deployments, and thousands of training hours, his dedication extends far beyond active duty. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Johnathan is a devoted father and husband who coaches little league baseball and serves as an advocate for the Trisomy 18 Foundation, demonstrating his commitment to family and community.
At Hire Heroes USA, Johnathan's excellence has been formally recognized through multiple awards. His leadership earned the prestigious Hire Heroes USA Founders Award, acknowledging his embodiment of the organization's founding principles: service, generosity, compassion, and patriotism. Under his guidance, his team won Office of the Year for three consecutive years before his promotion. Additionally, he was recognized as a Patriotic Employer by the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, highlighting his commitment to supporting military service members in the civilian workforce.
For over a decade, Johnathan has been transforming veteran services, leading mission-critical teams, and developing innovative programs. His strategic vision and exceptional leadership skills have created a sustainable impact on veteran employment initiatives. Beyond his professional accomplishments, he volunteers his expertise to mentor transitioning service members, offering career guidance and support during critical life transitions.
Johnathan's comprehensive understanding of both military and civilian sectors, combined with his proven track record of excellence, recognition, and genuine commitment to serving others, makes him the ideal candidate for Veteran of the Year.
When I first enlisted, I didn’t see the military—let alone the infantry—as a long-term path. I saw it as a way out of my small town and a means to pursue an education. But once I began serving, everything changed. I found myself surrounded by some of the bravest individuals I’d ever met, part of a community built on purpose, discipline, and growth. For the first time in my life, I experienced true mentorship—where leadership development was not just for officers, but expected of everyone, regardless of rank. That structure, that investment in people, made me realize my own value. It taught me that self-improvement isn’t a solo journey—it’s powered by community, accountability, and the willingness to help others rise with you. That shift in mindset hooked me for life and shaped the way I lead, serve, and show up for others every single day.
Johnathan Severs, originally from western Kentucky, is a strategic leader with over 20 years of experience in program development, service delivery, and process improvement across the military and nonprofit sectors. A U.S. Army veteran and former Infantryman with multiple deployments to Iraq, he brings a mission-driven mindset to advancing employment services for the military community. At Hire Heroes USA, Johnathan authored service delivery policy and training that helped over 110,000 veterans and military spouses secure meaningful employment. He has launched innovative programs and state-based initiatives to drive personalized support and deepen community engagement. He holds an Executive MBA from the Jack Welch Management Institute and is a certified Global Career Development Facilitator. His awards include the Hire Heroes USA Founder’s Award, three “Team of the Year” honors, multiple Army commendations and achievement medals, and the Master Combat Infantry Badge.
