Two soldiers in camouflage gear stand in a grassy, hilly landscape with sparse trees. One is in focus in the distance while the other is blurred in the foreground. Both appear alert and equipped for a mission.

Empowering veterans to thrive in their new mission

UHP is more than coursework—it’s a transformative experience that empowers veterans to rediscover their purpose and forge a new path beyond military service.

About

  • Our expert educators are leaders in exercise science, strength and conditioning, performance psychology, and health coaching.

  • They also bring expertise in entrepreneurship, business administration, and leadership development, within the military and corporate America.

Think

Train

Feel

Lead

A mindset built on growth, mental toughness, and lifelong learning.

Deliberate actions to improve overall health.

Building self-awareness to strengthen communication and relationships.

How we live reflects what matters most.

The UHP Story

The Turning Point

After a six-year stint in the Army, Matt Hesse found himself back where he started, asking the same question he had faced as a kid: “What am I going to do with my life?” In an effort to fill the void, he threw himself into work, building a chain of GNC stores, founding a major supplement brand, and selling his business for a nine-figure payout. But success felt empty.

The Realization

Hesse wasn’t alone; many veterans struggled with the same questions. “A lot of us carry weight we’ve never let go of,” he said. “UHP exists to help veterans unload it—to be vulnerable, to reset, and to move forward.”

The Solution

Hesse started meeting with fellow vets on small retreats, which over time grew into UHP, with a focused mission to empower veterans through tuition-free education in health, fitness, and entrepreneurship. Built on “The Blueprint”—a four-part philosophy of Think, Train, Feel, Lead—it fosters resilience, leadership, and purpose beyond service.

The Transformation

In 2021, UHP was officially founded on an 800-acre cattle ranch outside Bentonville, Arkansas, to expand the VFF mission, providing a solution to thousands of veterans a year. Still early in its trajectory, UHP aims to be the premier destination for veterans seeking guidance transitioning from the military to success in civilian life.

  • The Turning Point

  • The Realization

  • The Solution

  • The Transformation

“UHP was designed to make veterans feel valued and guide them through their military transition.”

– Matt Hesse, UHP Founder and CEO

Meet Our Team

Executive Leadership

    • Matt Hesse

      Founder/CEO

      Throughout his career, UHP founder Matt Hesse has leveraged his commitment to education and mentorship to become a leading figure in the health, wellness, and coaching sectors. Matt is an Army veteran who built a retail nutrition company and is the founder of PERFORMIX, a multi-national sports performance company, which went on to generate over […]

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    • Michael R. Shea

      Chief Marketing Officer & General Manager

      Mike brings over 20 years of marketing and content strategy experience to UHP. He has advised Fortune 500 companies to mom-and-pop startups, most recently as a fractional CMO with Clandestine Media Group. He served as Vice President of Media and Marketing at Black Rifle Coffee Co., leading content marketing initiatives across the company’s main site […]

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    • Matthew Egan

      Chief Financial Officer

      Matthew Egan is an accomplished finance and compliance executive with more than 20 years of experience in higher education leadership. He specializes in regulatory strategy, internal audit, financial planning, and operational efficiency across complex organizations. Matthew has led large-scale institutional initiatives through strategic budgeting, risk mitigation, and system-wide policy improvements. He has implemented enterprise-wide compliance […]

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    • Sean Murphy

      VP of Leadership Development

      Sean Murphy is a retired Navy SEAL with 22 years of distinguished service, including operational leadership within the Naval Special Warfare Development Group across five continents. As Vice President of Corporate Leadership at UHP, Sean draws from a career spent building, leading, and developing high-performing teams in some of the most demanding environments around the […]

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    • Hayden Wilkison

      Health & Performance Coach

      Hayden is a performance specialist and strength coach with over six years of professional coaching experience. A proud graduate of UHP and a veteran of the United States Marine Corps, Hayden combines discipline, knowledge, and a results-driven approach to help clients achieve their highest potential. After founding his training company in 2019, Hayden expanded his […]

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    • Ty Gowans

      Integrative Health & Performance Coach

      Ty is a dedicated Marine veteran, a proud graduate of FitOps, and a valued multi-time guest coach at UHP. With over 15 years of experience in health and fitness, he brings a wealth of knowledge, passion, and a deep commitment to servant leadership. His journey is a testament to resilience, dedication, and the power of […]

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    • Laura Lovell

      Director of Integrative Health Coaching

      Laura Lovell is an integrative health coach, educator, and former collegiate coach passionate about helping individuals navigate major life transitions. She holds a Master of Arts in Integrative Health Studies from the California Institute of Integral Studies and is a National Board-Certified Health and Wellness Coach (NBC-HWC). She also holds certifications as a Guided Imagery […]

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    • Kelly Howard

      VP of Education

      Kelly oversees the education program UHP, creating and delivering courses in holistic health, coaching skills, nutrition, and mindful movement. She previously served as Director of Whole Health Education for the VA, leading nationwide training programs that helped over 500,000 VA employees and veterans shift from a disease-focused model to an integrative, patient-centered approach. Kelly, a […]

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    • Hunter Schurrer

      M.Ed., CSCS – VP of Performance

      Hunter Schurrer brings over 20 years of coaching and leadership experience across special operations, collegiate athletics, and the private sector. As Vice President of Performance at UHP, he oversees the development of both students and staff through a human-first approach rooted in movement, mindset, and mission. Before UHP, Hunter spent more than a decade as […]

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    • Josh Capulton

      Fort Hood Team Lead

      With more than 10 years of military leadership experience, Josh brings operational precision and purpose-driven leadership forged through service as both a Commissioned and Noncommissioned Officer. He most recently served as a Medical Services Officer in the U.S. Army, where he led clinic operations and supervised multidisciplinary healthcare teams to ensure readiness and quality care. […]

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    • Peter Russo

      Fort Campbell Team Lead

      Pete has more than 20 years of service in the United States Army as an Infantryman and Green Beret, with experience in intelligence operations, networking, relationship building, multicultural cross-training, and working with nonprofit organizations. Pete retired from the military in March 2025 from 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne) at Fort Campbell. Pete joined the state […]

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    • Cody Montemayor M.S.

      Fort Bragg Team Lead

      Cody is a retired United States Army Special Forces Green Beret who has over a decade of operational time in SE Asia and the Middle East. While he was with 1SFG(A), he earned numerous awards for combat and meritorious acts, which included winning the distinguished title “Fittest Soldier” in 2022. Upon retiring, he obtained his […]

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    • Brandi Harstedt

      Admissions Specialist

      Brandi is a Navy veteran who served for nine years as a communications operator aboard the E6-B aircraft at Tinker AFB, Oklahoma. Since transitioning out of the military in 2015, she has pursued a range of professional and personal goals, including competing in bodybuilding competitions and working as a defense contractor. In this role, she […]

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    • Jon DuBois

      Executive Director of Admissions and Recruitment.

      With 15 years of experience in recruiting and management, Jon brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership to the role. Jon previously led recruiting efforts at Air Methods, overseeing staffing operations and playing a key role in ensuring the right talent was in place. Before that, Jon served as the NCOIC of Recruiting in Texas, […]

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    • Carson Graham

      Media Manager

      As a painter, writer, and filmmaker, Carson specializes in multimedia production for art, action sports, and UHP. As a professional mountain biker, he carved a niche in the Bentonville sports scene for his innovative work. This dynamic background heavily influences the look and feel of UHP’s content approach. If you found us on Instagram, thank […]

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    • Nick McNally’s

      Senior Operations Manager

      Nick retired after 20 years with the United States Army, serving with the 75th Ranger Regiment and finishing his career under a General Officer Headquarters operating throughout the South Pacific. After graduating from UHP’s CPT program in 2022 and IHC in 2024, Nick directed his efforts to both functional fitness and Integrative Health Coaching. The […]

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    • Ben Durham

      VP of Campus Operations

      Ben joined the UHP team in September 2021 and is responsible for all current operations at UHP, including planning, logistics, and providing the necessary means to create an optimal learning environment. Prior to joining UHP, Ben served 21 years in Army Special Operations, assigned to the 75th Ranger Regiment. He has led teams in some […]

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    • Dr. Wesley Northey

      Director of Experience

      With over 20 years of experience in the health and wellness industry, Dr. Wesley Northey brings a passion for servant-leadership and empowering others to perform at their highest potential to UHP. Wesley works directly with military veterans and corporate executives in mental performance, leader development, and team building. Throughout the fully immersive training programs on […]

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    • Parrion Bond

      Facilities Manager, Pure Life Center

      Parrion has built a distinguished career in the culinary rts, showcasing expertise in food science, recipe development, menu planning, food safety, and nutrition. With 10 years of experience, he has contributed to significant projects, driving success through innovative solutions. Parrion honed his culinary skills at Fort Lee, VA, which laid the foundation for a strong […]

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    • Wesley Johnson

      Chef de Cuisine

      Chef Wes Johnson has been a culinary leader for over 30 years, specializing in contemporary American cuisine with a farm-to-table focus. A James Beard Best New Restaurant Nominee for his work at Salt in St. Louis, he blends French fine-dining techniques with locally sourced ingredients to create innovative, seasonal menus. Beyond restaurants, he has catered […]

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    • Dr. Douglas Lindsay

      Founder and Executive Editor of the Journal of Character & Leadership Development

      Doug began his career by serving for over 22 years in the Air Force, where he held various roles, including scientist, professor, psychologist, and director. Since retiring from the military, he has established a successful consulting practice, delivering leadership programs and educational courses that focus on executive education and development, leadership, and coaching. He is […]

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    • Dr. Allison Brager

      Special Forces

      Allison is an active duty U.S. Army neurobiologist and Major supporting Special Forces and NATO partners. She has deployed twice, once in support of the Global War on Terror and again leading the field hospital at the Javits Center during the COVID-19 pandemic. A semifinalist for NASA’s 2020 astronaut class, she has reapplied for future […]

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    • John Wayne Troxell

      SEAC (Ret.)

      John Wayne Troxell is a retired senior noncommissioned officer who served nearly 38 years, finishing his career as the third Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff (SEAC)—the most senior enlisted role in the U.S. Armed Forces. He held leadership positions across elite units including the 82nd Airborne Division, 10th […]

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    • John Deedrick Jr.

      Lt. Gen. (Ret.) E.

      Following 35 years of distinguished service in the United States Army as an Infantry and Special Forces Officer, Deedrick provides strategic guidance to the UHP leadership team, where he helps guide programs for transitioning veterans and leadership development across military and civilian sectors. Throughout his career, he commanded units at nearly every level and led […]

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Three men exercise on rowing machines in a gym. Two men in the foreground wear dark shirts and hats, focusing on their workout, while other people and gym equipment are visible in the background.
  • For the women who are curious about the program, maybe feel or hear the voice that’s like, ‘That’s not for me,’ or ‘I’m not like them,’ I would encourage those women to just take the leap. You don’t have to be like, ‘ I’m gonna squat 350 lbs today ’. You could literally touch a barbell and hate it. Run a mile and hate it. And leave this course completely transformed. It’s about so much more.

    Kristina Hoyer

  • The first time I’d ever been to anything like this, where we all felt this kinship as veterans. And that there are other people who are in my position of transitioning, not knowing my focus, what’s my purpose. I wasn’t alone.

    Rick Van Rickley

  • When you hear that you’re attending a certified personal training course, you show up, and you assume, or at least I did, that everything you do and learn from that point on, is going to be related specifically to certified personal training. The experience at UHP is so much grander than just certified personal training. Self-reflect and self-work. You have time to sit, reflect, think, and work through things, talk through things. It’s much more of a holistic experience.

    Jonathan Hagerman

  • I’ve always had a really strong passion for fitness and health, and when I got out, I felt kind of lost in terms of what I wanted to do with my life and what my purpose was going to be after the military. And when I found UHP, it honestly felt like an answer to my prayers. And it also provided the development and the purpose building that I was looking for.

    Halle Haas

  • I’ve learned an abundance of things that I’m able to take with me for the future—about being a veteran in general, and with my fitness career.

    Beth White

  • All I knew was that this course, this place, has just raging reviews—people who are coming and having a massive transformation. Even if you come to a CPT course and are not planning on personal training, you’ve now done a ton of self-reflection and a ton of growth, where you feel more connected to who you are and your purpose.

    Kristina Hoyer

(Frequently Asked Questions)

Let’s Clear Things Up

General CPT Program Questions

  • General CPT Program Questions

  • Tuition & Benefits For Programs

  • Living & Logistics

  • Physical & Mental Preparation

  • Career & Certification

  • General IHC Program Questions

  • Leadership Development Program Questions

  • General CNC Program Questions

  • General Patriot Pathway Questions

    • (01)

      What is UHP?

      UHP is an immersive training environment designed to support veterans through the transition from military to civilian life, with a focus on exploring new career options in health and fitness.

    • (02)

      What will I learn during the 3-week CPT course?

      Students in our CPT course can expect an immersive, hands-on learning experience that blends technical coaching education with personal development, leadership training, and practical application. Rooted in our mission to serve Veterans and those in transition, the course equips students with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to become effective and impactful fitness professionals. Whether in the private sector, coaching, or community service. Expect high standards, structured growth, and a team committed to your success both during and beyond the course.

    • (03)

      Is this course accredited?

      Yes, the program prepares you for an industry-recognized certification in personal training.

    • (04)

      What’s the daily schedule like?

      Each day is structured with purpose, balancing physical training, classroom instruction, hands-on coaching practice, and time for personal growth. Students can expect early mornings, focused learning blocks, movement sessions, and recovery education, all designed to mirror the rhythm of a high-performance lifestyle.

    • (05)

      What should I bring to the program?

      Clothing and workout attire. Shoes for both indoor workouts and outdoor movement. Your personal electronic device, note-taking materials, and any other personal items you might need for a 3 week course.

    • (06)

      Will I receive one-on-one coaching?

      Yes. UHP and the CPT course is a culture of feedback and students will be receiving both group and individualized coach.

    • (01)

      Is UHP GI Bill® approved?

      Yes, UHP is GI Bill® approved, allowing eligible veterans to use their benefits to cover tuition and housing costs for the 3-week Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) or Integrative Health Coaching (IHC) course.

    • (02)

      What costs are covered by the GI Bill®?

      The GI Bill® typically covers tuition, housing, and meal costs during the program. Exact benefits may vary based on your eligibility status.

    • (03)

      How do I apply my GI Bill® benefits to this program?

      Step one is to book a meeting with a Team Leader, who’ll brief you on the process. You’ll need to submit your Certificate of Eligibility (COE) from the VA and work with the UHP admissions team to finalize your enrollment using GI Bill® benefits.

    • (04)

      What if I’ve already used all of my GI Bill® benefits?

      If your GI Bill® benefits are exhausted, UHP can connect you with a scholarship provider to cover the cost.

    • (05)

      Does UHP accept Vocational Rehabilitation (VR&E) benefits?

      Yes, UHP accepts Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VR&E) benefits (Chapter 31), which may cover tuition and other expenses for eligible veterans.

    • (01)

      Where will I stay during the program?

      UHP provides housing on campus for the duration of the program.

    • (02)

      Are meals provided?

      Yes, nutritious meals are included to support your training and overall health.

    • (03)

      What is the campus environment like?

      UHP is a team-oriented, supportive, and high-energy environment designed to challenge and elevate you physically and mentally.

    • (04)

      Is there WiFi on campus?

      Yes, WiFi is available, but limited. Expect to be engaged in training and course modules most of the day.

    • (05)

      Can I leave campus during the program?

      No. The program is designed to be immersive, so participants are expected to stay on campus throughout the three weeks.

    • (06)

      Can I bring my family or visitors?

      Visitors are not typically allowed during the program to maintain focus and engagement.

    • (01)

      How physically demanding is the program?

      The courses are designed to push you physically, but you’ll be coached through it. Participants of all fitness levels are welcome. This is not three weeks of “getting smoked.”

    • (02)

      Do I need prior fitness experience?

      No, but a passion for health and fitness is encouraged. The program will prepare you for a career in personal training, regardless of experience.

    • (03)

      What if I have an injury or physical limitation?

      The coaches will work with you to adjust training as needed, but it’s important to disclose any injuries beforehand.

    • (04)

      What kind of mindset should I have going into the program?

      Be ready to learn, push yourself, and embrace the process. Growth happens outside of your comfort zone.

    • (01)

      What certification will I earn?

      You will be prepared for an industry-recognized Certified Personal Trainer certification exam specifically for ISSA. The CPT program offers a UHP Certified Personal Trainer Certificate, a Mental Health First Responder Certificate, and CPR training for adults, children, and infants, as well as AED training, all provided by HSI. Many of our students opt to test for the International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA) certification after completing the course. Our students currently have a 93% pass rate. For the Integrative Health Coaching (IHC) course, you will be prepared to pursue the nationally recognized board certification through the National Board for Health & Wellness Coaching (NBHWC). Upon completion, you will receive a UHP Integrative Health Coach Certificate, qualifying you to apply for the NBHWC certification exam and advance your professional credentials.

    • (02)

      Will I be ready to start training clients after this program?

      Yes, the program equips you with both the knowledge and hands-on experience to start coaching immediately.

    • (03)

      Does UHP help with job placement?

      UHP has strong industry connections and provides career guidance, but job placement is ultimately up to you.

    • (04)

      Can I start my own personal training or health coaching business after this?

      Absolutely! The program includes education on entrepreneurship, marketing, and business development for coaches.

    • (01)

      What is UHP?

      UHP is an immersive training environment designed to prepare individuals—especially veterans and active military—for careers in health, fitness, and the transition from military to civilian life.

    • (02)

      What will I learn during the 3-week IHC course?

      During the 3-week Integrative Health Coaching (IHC) course, you’ll gain the foundational skills needed to begin working with clients as a health coach. The curriculum encompasses core coaching techniques, including active listening, goal setting, and behavior change strategies, all grounded in a client-centered, integrative approach. You’ll learn through a variety of methods, including classroom instruction, experiential activities, practice coaching, live coaching demos, and mentoring with board-certified coaches. Emphasis is placed on developing a coaching mindset rooted in presence, empathy, and non-judgment. This immersive experience is designed to build both your confidence and competence as a new coach.

    • (03)

      Is this course accredited?

      Our Integrative Health Coaching course is approved by the National Board for Health & Wellness Coaching (NBHWC). This means that upon successful completion of the program, you’ll meet the training requirement to apply for the national board exam and pursue board certification as a health and wellness coach.

    • (04)

      What’s the daily schedule like?

      Each day of the IHC course includes a mix of classroom learning, experiential activities, and hands-on coaching practice. Expect full, engaging days (typically 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.) with required training or activities every other day at 6:00 a.m. You’ll experience a variety of learning methods, including live coaching demos and mentoring with board-certified coaches, all designed to support both your professional and personal development.

    • (05)

      What should I bring to the program?

      Bring comfortable clothing suitable for classroom learning and physical activity, as well as note-taking materials, and any other personal items you may need for a 3-week stay. You’ll receive a detailed packing list in advance. Just as important, come ready to engage fully, with curiosity, focus, and a willingness to grow through both learning and self-reflection.

    • (06)

      Will I receive one-on-one coaching?

      Throughout the course, you are mentored by board-certified coaches and participate as a client in one-on-one coaching sessions with your peers. Additionally, physical training opportunities provide an opportunity to experience group coaching.

    • (01)

      What makes UHP’s Leader Development Experience different from typical leadership training programs?

      Unlike traditional classroom-based leadership courses, UHP’s Leader Development Experience is fully immersive and experiential. Led by former Tier 1 special operations leaders and supported by human performance experts, our programs place leaders in physically and mentally demanding scenarios that mirror real-world decision-making under pressure. Every experience is custom-built to challenge comfort zones, build trust, and develop resilient, high-performing teams.

    • (02)

      Who is this experience designed for?

      Our Leader Development Experiences are designed for corporate executives, senior managers, rising team leaders, and entire departments looking to elevate their performance. Whether your organization is navigating high-growth challenges, culture change, or leadership succession, this experience delivers results for those who need to lead with greater clarity, cohesion, and courage.

    • (03)

      What kind of activities should participants expect?

      Every UHP experience is customized, but participants can expect a blend of outdoor team challenges, leadership simulations, reflective debriefs, and physical tasks aligned with our Think, Train, Feel, Lead framework. Depending on your package, experiences may include mountain biking, navigation challenges, airsoft missions, or helicopter-supported operations, each paired with facilitated discussions and strategy workshops designed to embed lessons into workplace application.

    • (04)

      How does UHP measure the impact of the experience on leadership development?

      Impact is measured through a combination of pre-event assessments, post-experience reflection tools, and optional follow-on coaching. Teams often report improved communication, trust, and clarity in execution. We also provide organizations with qualitative feedback, observed behavioral shifts, and strategic recommendations to sustain the momentum long after the event concludes.

    • (05)

      What outcomes can our organization expect after participating?

      Your team can expect increased alignment around mission and values, stronger interpersonal trust, enhanced problem-solving under pressure, and clearer leadership communication. Many organizations use UHP experiences to unlock innovation, recalibrate team culture, accelerate executive performance, and reduce friction across functional silos.

    • (01)

      What is the Culinary Nutrition Coach program?

      The CNC program at UHP is a hands-on, veteran-focused course that trains students in the intersection of nutrition, culinary arts, sustainable food systems, and client coaching. It’s designed to help veterans build meaningful careers in nutrition coaching, food education, and entrepreneurship.

    • (02)

      What will I learn during the 3-week CNC course?

      Over the course of three immersive weeks, you’ll move through four core phases: Grow (sustainable food cultivation), Prepare (culinary skills and nutrition science), Coach (behavior change and client coaching), and Sell (business and entrepreneurship). By the end, you’ll not only know how to grow and prepare food, you’ll know how to guide others to do the same, and how to turn that into a career or business.

    • (03)

      What’s the daily schedule like?

      Expect days that balance fieldwork, culinary labs, classroom learning, and coaching workshops. You’ll move between our campus greenhouse, kitchen, and learning centers with purpose, developing both technical skills and personal confidence as a coach who specializes in the nutrition space.

    • (04)

      What should I bring to the program?

      Uniforms are provided for working outdoors and in kitchens, but please bring closed-toe shoes, a water bottle, a notebook or tablet, and any personal items and underclothes needed for a 3-week immersive stay. All other tools, materials, and ingredients are provided.

    • (05)

      Will I receive one-on-one coaching?

      Yes. Like all UHP courses, the CNC program offers personalized instruction and mentorship. You’ll receive feedback on your culinary techniques, coaching skills, and business ideas from experienced instructors throughout the course.

    • (01)

      What is the Patriot Pathway program?

      Patriot Pathway is UHP’s signature transition program—designed exclusively for veterans who are seeking direction, clarity, and purpose after military service. This is more than a career workshop. It’s a structured, high-impact course that redefines how you think about your mission, your strengths, and your next move.

    • (02)

      What will I learn during the Patriot Pathway experience?

      You’ll engage in deep personal development, goal setting, and real-world strategy. Through immersive workshops, coaching sessions, and case studies, you’ll learn how to translate military strengths into civilian assets, define what success looks like for you, and build a plan to achieve it—whether that means a new career, education path, or business venture.

    • (03)

      Is this program only for those who want to enter the health or fitness industry?

      No. While UHP specializes in human performance, Patriot Pathway is a universal experience built to serve all veterans—regardless of industry interest. It helps you clarify your purpose, sharpen your mindset, and take action on a plan that fits your values and ambitions, whatever those may be.

    • (04)

      What’s the daily schedule like

      You’ll experience a dynamic blend of team-based workshops, personal reflection, physical activity, and expert-led sessions on mindset, values, and career development. The environment is immersive and structured to maximize your growth in a short period of time.

    • (05)

      What should I bring to the program?

      Bring clothing for both indoor and outdoor activities, a journal or device for reflection and planning, and a willingness to do the work—mentally, physically, and emotionally. The more open you are, the more you’ll get out of this experience.

    • (06)

      Is this program funded?

      Yes. Patriot Pathway is fully funded by our network of private scholarship providers. There’s no cost to the veteran. We invest in you—because you’ve already invested in us.

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