Against the backdrop of a growing national effort to help veterans find purpose-driven careers after service, Paul Smith’s College is charting a new course, one that begins in the forests and lakes of the Adirondacks. The first-of-its-kind certificate program designed by and for veterans, and officially endorsed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), Battefish offers real-world training, college credit and a path to purpose. As part of the launch of its new Battlefish Academy, the inaugural cohort recently completed a two-week Outdoor Guide Intensive, training together in the Adirondacks by day and building business plans by night. The immersive program fully approved by the GI BillⓇ culminated in a 100% pass rate on the New York State Guide exam, along with American Red Cross certification.

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Battlefish Academy

”Battlefish Academy doesn’t just train veterans to be guides; it equips us to be outdoor entrepreneurs,” said Eloy Custodio, Battlefish Academy student. “It’s the essential mission-briefing for transitioning our service skills into a thriving, purpose-driven small business.”

This hybrid program arrives as the VA seeks to encourage more veterans to take advantage of benefits they've earned through their service by providing clear, compelling reasons for them to sign up. Battlefish Academy, supported by VA and military education benefits from day one, does just that. It combines online coursework with an immersive, two-week Outdoor Guide Intensive that takes place in the Adirondacks, enabling participants to refine their technical skills — like wilderness navigation, expedition planning, backcountry risk management and client experience — while developing the confidence to build careers in guiding and adventure tourism.

“Many veterans experience challenges when transitioning from the military to civilian life. AJ and PSC have created a unique program in Battlefish Academy (BFA) that provides not only an avenue to a meaningful career, but also a sense of community and belonging. Long Live BFA,” said Win Anderson, Battlefish Academy student.

Veteran entrepreneur and Paul Smith’s College alum Andrew “AJ” Beaudoin, the driving force behind Battlefish Academy, will lead the program as its inaugural director. Inspired by his time starting a guide service business, Beaudoin — who was recently named New York’s Vetrepreneur of the Year 2025 — recognized the need for programs for veterans, transitioning service members and dependents that combine a structured, career-focused educational pathway with immersive outdoor experiences. With only 5.2% of veterans owning businesses, Beaudoin is using his knowledge, abilities and experience to create meaningful entrepreneurial and educational opportunities for veterans, transitioning service members and dependents as they return to civilian life.

“After years of service and my own journey of healing through the outdoors on Paul Smith’s College campus, I saw firsthand how powerful nature can be in helping veterans and transitioning service members reconnect with themselves and their purpose,” said Beaudoin. “Battlefish Academy is more than an adventure — it’s a pathway. By continuing our partnership with Paul Smith’s College, we’re creating real opportunities for veterans, transitioning service members and even their dependents to gain skills, confidence and a sense of direction in the civilian world. This work is personal, and I’m committed to ensuring every program we offer reflects the strength, resilience and potential of those who’ve served.”

“Battlefish Academy presents a tremendous opportunity, not just for our transitioning soldiers, but also for our veterans, Gold Star families and the entire veterans support community,” said Craig McNamara, Transition Service Manager at Fort Drum. “What AJ and Paul Smith’s College are undertaking is more than just a chance for transitioning soldiers and veterans to pursue a passion-driven profession; it’s a meaningful opportunity for them to reintegrate into their communities and contribute in impactful ways.”

Upon completion of Battlefish Academy, participants earn 15 college credits, which can be transferred into a two-year Associate of Science degree in Business Administration, with options to continue toward a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration or Outdoor Adventure Recreation. This is a stepping stone for veterans to own and operate a business in a growing industry that values experience, independence and a deep connection to the outdoors.

To sign up for Battlefish Academy, please visit paulsmiths.edu/battlefish-academy.

About Paul Smith’s College:

At Paul Smith’s College, it’s about the experience. As the only four-year college located in the Adirondack Park in upstate New York, Paul Smith’s provides real-world, hands-on learning in fields such as business and hospitality, culinary management, forestry, environmental sciences and natural resources. We are able to draw on industries and resources available in our own backyard while preparing students for successful careers anywhere. Our community of resourceful, enterprising, supportive and adventurous individuals collectively provide experiential education, student support in the classroom and beyond, and meaningful opportunities for our alumni. We pride ourselves on research and advocacy on issues that improve our planet and the lives of the people who inhabit it. Learn more at paulsmiths.edu.

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