When One Door Closes: Strength In New Beginnings with Kat Kirkman

In this episode of Untold Valor, we’re honored to share the inspiring journey of Kathryn "Kat" Kirkman, a fourth-generation military veteran. Following a family legacy of service, Kat began her career at the United States Air Force Academy, where she studied astronautical engineering before becoming an air refueling pilot. However, her military career came to an abrupt end when medical issues led to an early retirement.Faced with the question of what to do next, Kat found herself drawn to social work. She didn’t know then that her path would lead her to serving veterans. Today, she is the co-founder of Sisters in Wellness, an organization focused on supporting women veterans through connection, overall wellness, and suicide awareness and prevention. Additionally, she leads employment and training programs at the Veteran Multi-Service Center, helping veterans navigate life beyond the military.Listen in as Kat shares her inspiring journey and reminds us that even when life takes an unexpected turn, it can open doors to new opportunities and a renewed sense of purpose. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:0:00 – Intro1:41 – Kat’s military background and transition to civilian life5:39 – How social work led Kat back to helping veterans8:30 – Helping female veterans through Sisters in Wellness11:15 – Kat’s work with veteran employment14:28 – Homecoming 250 celebration15:51 – Kat’s encouragement to listenersKat KirkmanLearn more about Kat HEREEPISODE LINKS Sisters in Wellness: https://sistersinwellness.eventbrite.com/, email: [email protected] Multi-Service Center (VMC): https://www.vmcenter.org/VMC Employment and training email: [email protected] 250: https://www.homecoming250.org/Homecoming 250 All Veterans Reunion Picnic email: [email protected] immediate help? Contact the Veterans Crisis Line via phone, text or online chat. Dial 988 then Press 1 or text 838255 or use the online chat at https://bit.ly/3OunXzgVoice & Vision: https://bit.ly/3miwFoyCompeerCORPS: https://bit.ly/3GgKryUInformation on how to apply for VA Healthcare Benefits from anywhere in the USA: https://bit.ly/40PtrrN or call 877-222-8387 (M-F 8am-8pm EST)To apply for veteran’s benefits and find resources in Pennsylvania veterans need to contact their County Office of Veterans Affairs as listed in this document: https://bit.ly/3m8PBWSView more about PA’s resources for veterans:  https://bit.ly/416cf0Q