Kevin Dougherty exemplifies the dedication, resilience, and service-driven mindset that define both the Veteran and Year and Vetrepreneur of the Year awards. A Marine Corps veteran, successful business owner, and committed community leader, Kevin has made a lasting impact in military and civilian life.
Commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in 1990, Kevin served as an Artillery Officer with deployments to Panama, Okinawa, Japan, and Somalia during Operation Restore Hope. After his honorable discharge in 1996, he used the GI Bill to earn an MBA from Wake Forest University, preparing him for entrepreneurship.
As Vice President of CertaPro’s Veteran Resource Group (VRG), Kevin’s passion for supporting veterans stems from a personal experience that led him to focus on the Support and Resource pillar. He is dedicated to providing guidance and assistance to help veterans succeed first in life and then in business.
Beyond his franchise, Kevin strengthens the CertaPro network by exchanging insights and best practices with fellow franchisees. He is proactive in seeking and sharing advice, fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous learning. His exposure to diverse cultures during military service has shaped his inclusive leadership style, ensuring an environment of respect and teamwork.
Kevin’s commitment to service extends into his community. As a longtime Meals on Wheels Durham volunteer, board member, and Fundraising Chairman, he has delivered meals, provided wellness calls, and offered vital social interaction to elderly individuals. He will also lead his team in CertaPro’s Paint It Pink initiative later this year to raise funds for breast cancer research.
Kevin’s wife volunteers for Apparo – Business and Tech Solutions for Nonprofits, helping amplify nonprofit impact through technology and process improvement, further demonstrating their family’s commitment to giving back. For his military service, business leadership, and community impact, Kevin Dougherty is an outstanding candidate for this award.
CertaPro Painters of Durham
Family- My parents have had a significant impact on my life. My father was a Naval Officer during the Vietnam War and influenced my decision to join the Marine Corps. He was never overbearing about his service; however, he had a great respect for the military and how it shaped his work ethic and life. My father has served as a role model for me throughout my life and I wanted him to be proud of me as person. Becoming a Marine officer was one of the accomplishments in my life that provided an additional connection between the two of us, and has helped us both communicate and appreciate each other. Both of my parents have given me love and support throughout my life and I am exceptionally grateful to have a family that has been my support during the best time and the worst of times.
Commissioned as a Second Lieutenant for the United States Marine Corps in 1990, Kevin served as an Artillery Officer with deployments to Panama, Okinawa, Japan, and Somalia during Operation Restore Hope. After his honorable discharge in 1996, he used the GI Bill to earn an MBA from Wake Forest University, preparing him for entrepreneurship. As Vice President of CertaPro’s Veteran Resource Group (VRG), Kevin’s passion for supporting veterans stems from a personal experience that led him to focus on the Support and Resource pillar. He is dedicated to providing guidance and assistance to help veterans succeed first in life and then in business. Beyond his own franchise, Kevin actively strengthens the CertaPro network by exchanging insights and best practices with fellow franchisees. He is proactive in seeking and sharing advice, fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous learning. His exposure to diverse cultures during his military service has shaped his inclusive leadership style, ensuring an environment of respect and teamwork.
