After Two Decades In the U.S. Army, Veteran Jay Rimel Opens Military-Focused JDog Junk Removal & Hauling Business in Austin

For 20 years, Jay Rimel served in the U.S. Army, where he worked mainly with weapons of mass destruction. After his service, Rimel wanted to follow his entrepreneurial dreams and become a business owner in his local community. JDog Junk Removal & Hauling, a military-centric home services franchise that only hires Veterans, was the perfect fit. Rimel is passionate about making sure Veterans are able to transition back into civilian life comfortably, which is why he’s bringing JDog to his local community. 

1851: What did you do before franchising?

Jay Rimel: I spent 20 years in the Army, stationed in various parts of Texas, where I retired as a Captain. About halfway through my service, I went to Officer Candidate School to become a commissioned officer, an officer of the armed forces who has received a rank before officially assuming their position. Upon graduating, I served as a platoon leader in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF). After that, I spent most of my time working with a weapons of mass destruction emergency response unit. When I retired, I went to work for the Williamson County and Cities Health District, where I was responsible for emergency planning and response for the district. This was a natural fit as it was closely related to my military career; however, I have always wanted to start my own business and be my own boss. So, after about three and a half years, I decided to contact JDog Junk Removal & Hauling, and began the process of becoming a junk removal specialist! It has been a win/win for me as I am my own boss and I get to help other Veterans by employing them, providing discounts to vets who need our service, and supporting Veterans' causes.

1851: How long from the first time you learned about franchising until you inquired on the franchisor’s website ?

Rimel: Two years

1851: How did you perform your research/due diligence?

Rimel: I only looked for opportunities online and through speaking with other Veterans. It wasn’t about franchising itself in my research, it was about finding a Veteran-centric opportunity that enabled me to continue serving the military community in some capacity.

1851: How many brands did you look at? 

Rimel: Five

1851: What made you say yes to JDog? 

Rimel: I signed with JDog because of the emphasis on supporting Veterans causes and trying to lower Veteran unemployment. It’s a Veteran community where we can all support each other while providing a sought-after service to the community. JDog Brands is a company that’s making a real difference, and saying yes to this opportunity was one of the easiest decisions I’ve made.

1851: What could have scared you away? 

Rimel: My wife is currently on active duty and the possibility that she could be deployed, leaving me at home with two young children was definitely a concern. Also, I’m a first-time franchisee, so there are a lot of unknowns to me, and that’s something that could have made me back out too.

What makes you stand out as a unique business owner in the local community?

Rimel: Only about 17% of military soldiers make it to a 20-year retirement. I stand out because I’m more committed to seeing something through the right way than most. I’m committed to providing exceptional and compassionate customer service to my community. 

What do you hope to achieve with your business? Plans for growth? 

Rimel: Providing opportunities for other Veterans is my main goal, but a lot of things go into that. I want to grow the business so that I can serve a larger portion of the community and provide more jobs for Veterans. I understand how hard the transition back into civilian life can be and I want to help ease that any way that I can.