At eBay, we are proud to support veterans and their families through our Honor Role program, which partners with the Department of Defense’s (DoD) SkillBridge Program to help veterans transition into the workforce. By providing access to employment, education and resources, this program empowers veterans with the tools they need to succeed and support their communities.
Meet Liz O’Kane, owner of Colorado Reworn
Liz O'Kane's remarkable journey from a 23-year military career to becoming the owner of Colorado Reworn on eBay is a testament to her resilience and resourcefulness. Her story began in 2002, when she discovered selling on eBay, clearing out her children’s outgrown clothing and toys. She soon realized she could supplement her family’s income and was able to fully fund a family vacation to Disney World with her eBay earnings.
This entrepreneurial spirit returned in full force when Liz was stationed in Washington, D.C., where her annual military earnings simply weren’t enough to support her youngest son’s private school education. eBay became more than a side hustle; it was a lifeline for her family's success.
Through military moves to various locations across the United States, Liz continued selling on eBay part-time, fulfilling a desire of entrepreneurship and additional income.
While preparing for retirement, Liz had a clear vision of what her life after service would entail. She was able to set up processes to help grow her eBay business into a full-time, post-military small business. When she retired at the beginning of 2017, it was a seamless transition. Liz said that what made her transition easy was the positive support she received from her military community and encouragement from her family. She also mentioned how much of an impact the eBay community had on her.
For the last seven years, Liz has been able to grow her business and help other aspiring entrepreneurs along their journey. “I love engaging with the eBay community and helping to strengthen the platform,” Liz said. “eBay values my input as a seller, and that is very important to me.”
Meet Alfonso Castillo, Honor Role Apprentice, Data Analytics Platform Program Manager and Retired US Army Lt. Col.
Alfonso Castillo is a retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel who, after 33 years of service, was looking for a career that would allow him to spend quality time with his family and pursue his interests in technology advancement. He found his perfect fit at eBay, where he joined the data analytics platform team through the Honor Role program.
“This position piqued my interest because of its unique complexity, as the team was looking for someone who specialized in computer science, program management and business analysis,” said Alfonso. “I fit that role perfectly and was able to transfer my military background to my new role with the help of military veterans at eBay who understood my level of experience.”
Alfonso attributes his success to eBay's positive work culture and the supportive veterans who helped him transfer his military experience into the corporate world. He advises service members transitioning to civilian jobs to set expectations, prepare for multiple interviews and stay positive even in the face of rejection.
“Success to me, means low stress and more quality time with my family,” Alfonso said. “Working as a program manager with the data analytics technology team has enabled me to learn something new every day. The challenges keep me intrigued, and I am constantly discovering new things.”
Stories from veterans like Liz and Alfonso highlight the value of eBay's Honor Role program and how it can provide veterans with a bright future. Learn more about how eBay empowers veterans to transition into civilian life here.