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EMS News

January Newsletter 2026

1/9/2026

 
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A NOTE FROM OUR CEO:

We are excited to welcome the start of a new year at EMS US and all the opportunities it brings. As we move forward, our focus remains on growth, alignment, and setting a strong foundation for long-term success.

We’re kicking off the year by partnering with Pinnacle Business Guide to help further format and strengthen EMS US for peak performance. This collaboration will allow us to sharpen our processes, clarify our goals, and ensure we’re operating at the highest level possible. It’s an important step as we continue to scale and position ourselves for the future.

We’re also looking forward to gathering for our year-end social next week at Hearth in Eden Prairie. This event gives us a chance to reconnect, reflect on the accomplishments of the past year, and celebrate the hard work and dedication that brought us here..

We believe this year has the potential to be a breakout year for EMS US. With a strong team, clear direction, and shared commitment, we’re confident in what lies ahead. Thank you for being part of our community we’re excited to continue building, growing, and succeeding together.

With gratitude,
Corey M. Hayes
CEO & Founder

MENTOR SPOTLIGHT:

This month, we’re proud to shine the spotlight on Steve Chepokas for his outstanding commitment to service, leadership, and mentorship.

​Over the past year, Steve mentored more than seven service members, dedicating his time, experience, and guidance to help them navigate both professional and personal transitions. His willingness to invest in others reflects the very best of what EMS US stands for: service beyond self, leadership through action, and a commitment to building people up.

Thank you Steve for your dedication and proud to recognize the positive influence you continue to have on those around you.
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STEVE CHEPOKAS | Since February 2025
President, JETSET Promotions
​Founder-Chair Emeritus Pinky Swear Foundation


Why I want to be involved: 
In 40 years, I have been mentored by some of the best in business, and some of the largest CEOs over the years WHO BELIEVED IN ME, and still do. My form of repayment is to do the same for others that they did for me. I am in awe of the Soldiers that have sacrificed everything for our safety, so we may live free in the USA. I have nothing but the highest level of respect for them all. They have filled my cup, hopefully I can be a force of good to them.  

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Learn more about our mentors >>
Become an EMS Mentor

MENTEE SPOTLIGHT:

We are honored to recognize Maria Zahuranec as our Mentee of the Month.

Maria has shared how impactful the EMS US program has been for both her and her husband as they navigate life beyond military service. The mentorship, support, and connections they received made such a difference that Maria was inspired to give back.

Because of this experience, Maria has generously volunteered to be part of the EMS US staff, continuing the mission of supporting others through mentorship. We are grateful for her heart to serve and the positive impact she brings to our community.

Thank you, Maria, for being part of the EMS US Community.
Request a Mentor

UPCOMING EVENTS:

January 20, 2026 | 4pm-7pm
Connect–US Soldier - Mentor meeting

February 17, 2026 | 4pm-7pm
Connect–US Soldier - Mentor meeting
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March 17, 2026 | 4pm-7pm
Connect–US Soldier - Mentor meeting

April 21, 2026 | 4pm-7pm
Connect–US Soldier - Mentor meeting

May 19, 2026 | 4pm-7pm
Connect–US Soldier - Mentor meeting

June 16, 2026 | 4pm-7pm
Connect–US Soldier - Mentor meeting
​Locations will be sent upon invitation. All 2026 Mentor Meetings have been added to the website. Click the button below to view the full schedule.
View Meeting Schedule & RSVP >>

​TESTIMONIALS FROM SERVICE MEMBERS:

"I participated in a pilot program in which I got to interact with various CEOs and Executives in MN. This experience was very welcomed since it provides insight as to what the people running companies look for in individuals. The best portion for me though was offering feedback as to how they could better reach out to service members and talking about the Army ETS (Expiration Term of Service) process as a whole. Speaking on my experiences and how it can be better fine tuned so other service members can benefit from it is very rewarding for me on a personal level. I highly recommend others to participate in this program and I hope it continues."
- SPC Garcia Paez
"Having to go from the “large part” of the Army to more of a compartmentalized part of the Army. The biggest part of my transition that scared me was the not knowing what to do for work outside of the Army. The Army was all that pushed me to work for what is important to me. Keeping my goals in mind to get my degree and perform as a well as possible to make the ranks. Transitioning to the part-time service was adjusting to not having to wake up every morning to go to P.T. formation. This is still something that is difficult for me when it comes to my civilian job and getting ready to go back to school to attain my bachelor’s degree. My transition has been a little unsure of making sure that my paychecks are consistent.“
- SGT Johnsen

PREVIOUS EVENTS:

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