Facilitating Success

With its opportunities for rest and recuperation, December is a unique time for reflection on past successes, setbacks, and goals for the coming year. Former Chief Master Sergeant Carmia Frazier’s experience as an ACP Protege shows how Veterans can leverage previous experiences to create a satisfying post-military career.

After 30 years as a leader in the U.S. Air Force, Frazier knew about persevering through challenges and staying focused on long-term goals. Her Air Force career culminated in a prestigious position as first female Superintendent of the 99th Mission Support at Nellis Air Force Base.

When she retired in 2021, her professional future was less clear. Her military experience with Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives translated easily into a senior civilian role, but she encountered unexpected obstacles navigating company culture and pushback from leadership when trying to implement positive change.

Frazier ultimately left that initial role and started her own consulting practice in 2023. She had heard about American Corporate Partners (ACP) and their free Veteran Mentoring Program through a colleague and signed up for her own mentorship in 2024.

“At first, I wasn’t sure the program was meant for [more experienced Veterans] like me,” Frazier says. Her first meeting with her Mentor, Dr. Andriana Eliadis, alleviated those concerns. “Her background is amazing,” Frazier says of Dr. Eliadis, noting that their respective experiences dovetailed beautifully.

Dr. Eliadis, a facilitator and instructor at Cornell University, executive coaching consultant, and DEI expert, was the ideal guide to help Frazier craft a long term career plan. The pair identified past oversights, such as insufficiently vetting a company’s culture before accepting a new position, and are focusing on helping Frazier utilize her teaching and leadership skills and her passion for corporate social responsibility and DEI.

“Dr. Eliadis helps me understand when I’m on the right path,” Frazier says of how her Mentor has helped her keep her values central to her professional planning. “She’s been a great cheerleader and is always available for check-ins and to provide accountability.”

When she reflects on what has led to her greatest successes, Frazier emphasizes the importance of authenticity.

To sign up for a Mentor, Veterans and active duty Military Spouses can apply on our website and be connected with an ACP Operations Associate. Mentors, apply here to dedicate one hour a month and have a profound impact!