Our Story
Hi, I'm Autumn (he/him). I'm the founder and director of Drakov Industries. This business started with a simple, foundational belief: veterans deserve better.
After graduating from the Defense Language Institute, I served as a Levantine Arabic Linguist in the U.S. Air Force. When I separated in 2017, I quickly realized how complex and overwhelming the transition to civilian life can be. From navigating the various VA systems to finding a job that truly values the skills and discipline veterans bring to the table, the task can feel insurmountable. I also saw how many businesses want to do right by veterans but don't know where to start.
That's why I launched Drakov Industries: to bridge the gap between veterans and the organizations that serve them.
My background is the result of a wide net I cast while trying to find my place in the world. Through Chapter 31, the Veteran Readiness and Employment Program (formerly VA Vocational Rehabilitation), I earned undergraduate degrees in Psychology and Linguistics, graduating from the University of Montana in 2019. I went on to spend more than five years in Human Resources, where I saw firsthand how hiring decisions get made and how often veterans' skills get lost in translation.
In 2022, I returned to school and earned my MBA from Washington State University. Together, my professional and academic backgrounds gave me the tools to understand both the human side of transition and the business side of change. I've worked on the front lines of support through the National Suicide Prevention and Crisis Lifeline, and most recently served as Director of Outreach for a nonprofit dedicated to helping its community. Those experiences continue to drive my commitment to providing real, results-driven help to those who need it.
Today, I offer three core services:
Personal Development to help veterans develop a winning attitude, create strategies, navigate resources, and land meaningful employment.
Corporate consultations to help businesses build veteran-friendly programs and cultures that go beyond lip service and are designed to make a real difference.
Keynote addresses on topics ranging from veteran inclusion to leadership and everything in between, delivered with authenticity, lived experience, and practical insight.
This mission isn't just professional for me; it's personal. I've lived it. Today, I have a 100% P&T VA rating. And I know that behind every DD-214 is a story, a skillset, and a human being who deserves to thrive.
When I'm not working, you can find me on the racetrack, piloting a new MTG deck, or playing guitar with my old bandmates. I believe in communication, creativity, and connection, values that flow into everything I do here.
Based in Bellingham, Washington, I work with veterans and organizations wherever they are. Whether you're a veteran looking for support or a business ready to level up your impact, you've come to the right place. Let's build something better together.
Autumn Olsen (he/him)
Founder, Drakov Industries