From military service to civilian success. Operation New Uniform empowers Veterans, Servicemembers, and Military Spouses to transition into purposeful, stable careers.
You have the power to change lives. Your generous donation ensures that our nation’s heroes and their spouses receive life-changing services— at no cost to them.
Watch the heartwarming journey of Willie and discover how Operation New Uniform transformed his future.
Are you a Servicemember, Veteran, or Military Spouse? Apply today to start your journey with Operation New Uniform and take the first step toward a brighter future,
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Since 2014, Operation New Uniform, Inc. (ONU) has been dedicated to bridging the gap between military service and meaningful civilian careers. Founded to address the unique challenges faced by transitioning servicemembers, veterans, and military spouses, we’ve built a comprehensive support system that goes far beyond traditional job placement services.
Our no-cost, nationally accessible career development program transforms military experience into workforce value. Through our proven methodology—adapted from the globally recognized Sandler training system—we deliver individualized coaching, networking opportunities, and lifelong support to ensure every graduate achieves financial stability and professional fulfillment.
With over 700 graduates across 28 states, as well as from Europe and the Middle East, and an average starting salary of $88,000, we’re not just changing individual lives—we’re strengthening communities and driving economic growth wherever our alumni build their new careers.
Our comprehensive approach recognizes that one size doesn’t fit all—what works for a retiring Navy officer may be different from what a Coast Guard spouse needs, or what a medically retired soldier requires. Every program is built around the same core principle: transforming your military experience into civilian career success.
Honorably discharged from any branch of military service? We help you translate your skills and experience into a thriving civilian career with personalized coaching and lifetime support.
Currently on active duty with separation date within 4 months? Get ahead of your transition with our proven career readiness program designed specifically for military professionals.
Build your own meaningful career while supporting your military family. Our flexible online program accommodates the unique challenges of military spouse life with portable skills and networking.
All programs are completely free and include lifetime alumni support. Ready to take the next step in your career journey?
Our proven three-phase approach transforms military experience into civilian career success. From your first application to landing your dream job and beyond, we’re with you at every step.
Duration: 10 Hours
Focus: Mental Well-Being & Foundation Building
We start by getting to know you—your goals, skills, and unique background. Through comprehensive screening, in-depth interviews, and DISC methodology assessments, we create a personalized roadmap for your success. This isn’t just paperwork; it’s the foundation of your transformation.
Duration: 60 Hours
Focus: Mental, Financial & Social Well-Being
Learn the business methodologies that companies actually use. Our curriculum, adapted from the globally recognized Sandler training system, teaches you to market yourself effectively and build professional networks. Available both in-person and online to fit your schedule.
Duration: 25 Hours + Ongoing
Focus: Real-World Application & Long-Term Success
Put your new skills to work with hands-on support. From resume tailoring and mock interviews to salary negotiations and networking opportunities, we’re your career partner for life. Many alumni still reach out years later when changing careers or locations.
The true measure of our success isn’t just in the numbers—it’s in the lives we’ve transformed.
Join the Loyalty Brigade by becoming a monthly donor and ensure Servicemembers, Veterans, and Military Spouses never have to pay for ONU’s life-changing program.
Our events bring the Operation New Uniform community together. Attend a graduation to celebrate the achievements of our students, join a fundraising event to fuel life-changing programs, or explore upcoming classes and take your next step toward a meaningful civilian career.
Ready to start your career transformation or have questions about our programs? Send us a message and our team will get back to you within one business day.
Prefer to speak directly with our team?
(904) 328-1600
[email protected]
4215 Southpoint Blvd, Suite 100, Jacksonville, FL 32216
Media Contact:
Char Miller, Chief Marketing Officer
Operation New Uniform
[email protected]
Michele McManamon is the Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder of Operation New Uniform (ONU), a nonprofit organization headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida. ONU is a free, comprehensive Career Development program dedicated to addressing the challenges of unemployment, underemployment, and career transitions faced by Servicemembers, Veterans, and Military Spouses.
Before founding ONU, Michele and her husband operated Sandler Training franchises. While sponsoring a veteran through Sandler’s training in Jacksonville, she identified a gap—veterans lacked a clear path to civilian careers. To fill that need, she co-founded Operation New Uniform in 2014 and, by 2019, stepped away from Sandler to lead ONU full-time. ONU’s curriculum is based upon the globally recognized Sandler training methodology.
ONU has graduated over 700 servicemembers, veterans, and military spouses across 28 states and Europe through in-person and online career readiness programs. Based on Blue Star Families’ Military Family Lifestyle Survey, which finds the average military family size to be 4.5 individuals, ONU’s work has positively impacted an estimated 2,482 lives.
A passionate community leader, Michele was the third woman ever selected to serve as a Blue Coat (Vice Chair) for THE PLAYERS Championship in 2010 and became the tournament’s third female Chair in 2016. She is a Trustee with the JAX Chamber, a member of the JAXUSA Partnership’s Military Issues Committee, and a board member of the Community Veterans Engagement Board (CVEB). Her accolades include being named Woman Business Owner of the Year and Small Business Leader of the Year for South Council by the JAX Chamber, as well as one of Jacksonville’s Top 25 Influential Women. ONU, under her direction, was named a Top 50 Business of Influence by the Jacksonville Business Journal.
In 2023, Michele was selected to participate in the prestigious Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses (10KSB) program, further highlighting her innovative leadership and commitment to empowering veterans and their families. She still actively participates with this global group and was recently a 10KSB panelist.
In the fall of 2024, Michele was honored on the field during the Jacksonville Jaguars’ nationally televised Military Appreciation game as the Veteran Community Champion of the Year. This special recognition, presented by Florida Blue, took place during the third quarter and spotlighted her leadership at Operation New Uniform, highlighting ONU’s crucial role in supporting veterans and their families across the nation and overseas.
A New Jersey native and proud granddaughter of Greek immigrants, Michele now lives in Northeast Florida with her husband, Pat, and their dog, Willow. She’s the mother of two grown children and a devoted grandmother.
WILLIE SANDERS, III
U.S. ARMY VETERAN