After 22 years in the Army, Lavin found herself in the militarys week-long transition assistance program, slowly integrating into the veteran community. It hit me like a brick in the face that military members struggled during the transition in finding purpose and even more shocking in finding employment, said Lavin. This realization led Lavin to launch a veteran talent acquisition company, Veterans2Corporate.
The business failed miserably because I was transitioning myself and I had no clue how to run a business, said Lavin. She took these lessons and ultimately founded Luminary. Luminarys mission is to ensure citizens, emergency medical service, fire rescue, law enforcement, and military personnel are prepared to lead in crisis by equipping them with the tools and supplies they need to save lives at home and abroad.
We are a company that believes when one wins, everyone wins, said Lavin. We have enjoyed learning about retail and e-commerce and find it exciting to explore various products and then select the best products for our customers.
What has helped Lavin and her husband thrive with a two-person business has been the shift to automation for many tasks to remain efficient. In addition, her background helps her to understand their client base.
Having been in the military and understanding the need to be equipped with the best tools and supplies is paramount when defending our country and our way of life, she said. Luminary is a growing business that supports heroes at home and abroad.
Lavins success has been recognized for her support to the military community and business acumen. She was awarded the 2024 women who win award, the business women of the year finalist, and the apogee category winner by Tampa Bay Business & Wealth magazine.
Giving back to the community is a key part of how Lavin embraces servant leadership. She co-founded Action Zone, a nonprofit that helps veterans and military spouses find economic success and personal wealth as business owners, helping launch 250 businesses that have hired 600 employees with a reported $19 million in earned revenue.
Successful leaders must communicate well, be self-aware and be open-minded, said Lavin. Leaders are often perceived to have strong personalities so its important to be self-aware and know how your actions and emotions affect others, she said. The people you lead gain trust and confidence in leaders who listen and observe before making decisions or changes.
