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Accelerated Waste Solutions is helping veterans turn military discipline and leadership into scalable service businesses through its Junk Shot and Valet Trash franchise opportunities.
For many veterans transitioning into civilian life, the next mission often involves building something of their own. Franchising can offer a familiar framework — a clear playbook, defined roles and systems designed for repeatable execution. Accelerated Waste Solutions (AWS) has built its model around those principles, making it a strong fit for former service members looking to enter business ownership in 2026.
Through its Junk Shot and Valet Trash service offerings, AWS provides franchisees with opportunities in two growing service categories tied to property management, residential communities and everyday waste removal needs. The business model emphasizes operational discipline, system-driven execution and strong support structures — elements that often resonate with veterans who are accustomed to working within organized frameworks.
CEO Fred Tomlin, an eight-year U.S. Army veteran, said the company intentionally designed its operating system around that mindset.
“Our operating model follows a standard operating procedure-style structure,” Tomlin said. “That gives franchise owners clear resource tools and defined processes they can follow as they build their business.”
Military training emphasizes process, accountability and clarity of mission. AWS aims to reflect those same principles through its onboarding and training process.
Rather than relying on informal or loosely structured training, the brand uses a project-based onboarding approach that walks new owners through each step of launching and running their business. For veterans accustomed to completing tasks methodically and executing against defined objectives, that format tends to feel natural.
“We take a project-based approach to onboarding that offers a step-by-step training process,” Tomlin said. “Veterans respond well to that structure because it mirrors the way they’ve already been trained to work.”
That structure continues well beyond the initial launch phase. AWS franchisees receive ongoing operational guidance and support from a team designed to keep owners accountable while providing resources when challenges arise.
While franchise ownership ultimately requires self-direction, AWS emphasizes a support framework that helps owners stay aligned with best practices as their businesses grow.
Franchisees are paired with business coaches and field trainers who provide continued operational guidance. The goal is to create a system that offers both independence and accountability — a balance that often feels familiar to veterans who are used to operating within a chain of command.
“Franchisees have access to business coaches and field trainers who help provide continued support and guidance,” Tomlin said. “We want owners to have the resources they need while still holding themselves accountable for execution.”
The company also offers “vision groups,” collaborative coaching sessions where franchise owners work together to solve challenges, share strategies and refine their growth plans.
Those sessions often tap into leadership and operational skills veterans developed during their time in service.
“Our vision groups give franchisees a place to share ideas and apply the leadership skills they developed in the military to the growth of their businesses,” Tomlin said.
Beyond operational systems, AWS also emphasizes community — something many veterans say they miss after leaving the service.
The franchise network includes multiple veteran owners who support each other through shared accountability and mentorship. That culture can make the transition to entrepreneurship feel less isolating.
“We have a strong community of veteran owners who help hold each other accountable and support each other’s growth,” Tomlin said.
The company also recognizes military service with tangible financial incentives. Veterans receive a $7,000 discount on the franchise fee, helping reduce the upfront investment required to enter the system.
Service-based businesses like junk removal and valet trash continue to see steady demand as population growth and housing development drive the need for reliable waste management services. Because AWS franchisees work directly with property managers, residential communities and local homeowners, many owners are able to build recurring revenue streams while scaling their operations over time.
For veterans looking to translate leadership, discipline and operational execution into entrepreneurship, AWS offers a model designed around those strengths.
By pairing structured systems with strong peer support, Accelerated Waste Solutions provides a path for veterans to move from military service into business ownership while continuing to lead teams, serve communities and build something lasting for their families.
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