In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, we sit down with David Harris, Software Investor at Vista Equity Partners, United States Air Force Veteran, and graduate of United States Air Force Academy and Stanford University, MBA to explore his transition from military service to the world of Private Equity—and how curiosity, grit, and strategic networking opened doors along the way.
David shares how his time at the United States Air Force Academy and his early career in software development laid the groundwork for an untraditional path into high finance. From navigating the MBA application process to landing internships at Blackstone and Scout Ventures, David walks us through the mindset and methods he used to translate military experience into business success.
He also opens up about the power of intelligent networking, how one cold LinkedIn message led to a chain of life-changing opportunities, and why the veteran community is uniquely positioned to support each other in the private sector.
You’ll hear about:
- Why David believes an MBA is the most efficient transition tool for vets unsure of their next step
- How internships and early exposure shaped his path into investing
- The myth of networking—and how to authentically “connect” instead
- How reaching out (even awkwardly) can lead to career-defining relationships
- His decision to skip investment banking and go straight into private equity
- Why software, people, and mission alignment led him to Vista Equity Partners
Whether you're exploring a pivot into finance, tech, or business leadership—or just want to hear how one veteran carved his own lane in a competitive industry—David’s story is packed with actionable insight and inspiration.
🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.
#VeteranTransition #MilitaryToMBA #PrivateEquity #VistaEquityPartners #VeteranNetwork #TheMilVetPodcast #LeadershipDevelopment #MilitaryExperience #CareerPivot #StanfordGSB #Blackstone #AirForceVeteran #VeteransInFinance #NetworkingForVeterans #MissionDrivenCareers #ForcesForGood
Thanks for listening!
Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:
Tweet us at @brendan_aronson
Follow us on Instagram at @themilitaryvet
Subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veterans
Check out our video content on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/@themilitaryvet
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