From Navy Machinist to Fitness Entrepreneur: The Story of Dan Thompson and Huff-n-Puff Fitness Repair
Dan Thompson’s remarkable journey from serving on the USS Camden to establishing a thriving fitness equipment repair company is inspirational. Like many veterans, Dan’s story is rooted in a profound desire to serve, and his transition from military life to entrepreneurship is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the value of following one’s instincts.
From Navy Engine Rooms to Entrepreneurship
Dan’s story begins after the tragic events of September 11, 2001, when he enlisted in the U.S. Navy, driven by a desire to serve his country. He became a Machinist’s Mate (MM), working in the engine room on the USS Camden AOE-2. Little did he know the mechanical training he gained during his Navy service would lay the groundwork for his future business ventures.
After his military service, Dan found work as a semi-driver, but the extended time away from home didn’t align with his long-term vision. A chance arose to subcontract for a fitness equipment repair company, leading him to take a leap of faith and start his own business. “I had no desire to start my own company,” Dan admits, “but plan B was the Plumbers and Pipefitters Union. I knew the Union would always be there, so I went with it—and here we are.”
“I had no desire to start my own company,” Dan admits, “but plan B was the Plumbers and Pipefitters Union. I knew the Union would always be there, so I went with it—and here we are.”
The Birth of Huff-n-Puff Fitness Repair
In 2008, Huff-n-Puff Fitness Repair was born. What started with Dan, a car and a tool bag, has since grown into a thriving business with seven technicians and five office staff. Huff-n-Puff specializes in fitness equipment repair, providing job opportunities for those without formal education, especially veterans with mechanical backgrounds.
Creating jobs, particularly for veterans, has been one of the most rewarding aspects of Dan’s entrepreneurial journey. Having faced his struggles transitioning to civilian work, Dan takes pride in offering opportunities to others in a similar position. “Vets with a mechanical MOS do very well here,” Dan notes. His on-the-job training program helps employees learn a valuable trade within three months, making it an accessible option for those looking to jumpstart their careers.
Challenges, Growth, and Community Involvement
Running a business is always challenging. For Dan, the steep learning curve of mastering his trade and managing a company was significant. “It’s like being a warrant officer and CO all rolled into one,” he jokes. Yet, as Huff-n-Puff expands, Dan has embraced the opportunity to focus on his team’s strengths, streamlining operations and improving efficiency.
Dan’s involvement with the North American Health and Fitness Trades Alliance (NAHFTA) reflects his commitment to the growth and advocacy of his industry nationally. Dan aims to represent better service providers in the health and fitness equipment space with other professionals, working to improve standards across the board. To learn more about the North American Health and Fitness Trades Alliance visit their website.
One of Dan’s more recent significant turning points was his partnership with the Veteran Business Project (VBP). Through VBP, Dan became a Certified Veteran Business Enterprise (VBE) with the city of Chicago, gaining access to valuable resources and connections. He speaks highly of VBP, mainly the camaraderie fostered at their monthly meetings at Rosie’s Home Cookin in Naperville. “Every vet I’ve ever encountered names camaraderie as the number one thing they miss about being in, and those meetings are the next best thing.”
“Every vet I’ve ever encountered names camaraderie as the number one thing they miss about being in, and those meetings are the next best thing.”
“From day one, we’re taught to keep pushing, no matter what, and secure our objective,”
Inspiring Veterans to Take the Leap
For veterans considering entrepreneurship, Dan’s advice is simple: connect with local veteran groups. While he admits he’s been “a horrible example” of networking early on, he now recognizes the importance of veteran connections in and out of business. His partnership with VBP has been a game-changer, and he encourages others to take advantage of similar resources.
Dan’s military background—his training, discipline, and ability to handle pressure—has undoubtedly contributed to his success as a business owner. “From day one, we’re taught to keep pushing, no matter what, and secure our objective,” Dan explains. This mindset has guided him through the ups and downs of entrepreneurship, reinforcing the value of perseverance.
For veterans looking to chart their path in business, Dan’s story proves that the skills learned in service to the nation can serve them well in building something of their own. Huff-n-Puff Fitness Repair is not just a business—it’s a testament to the strength, determination, and entrepreneurial spirit of veterans like Dan Thompson.
Thanks to organizations like the Veteran Business Project, more veterans can find their footing as they transition from service members to successful business owners, ready to make their mark on the world of entrepreneurship.
