Our story
Built from service. Shaped by transition.
Shepherds Not Sheep began with a simple recognition: the transition from military service into civilian life can ask a great deal of a veteran.
A founder perspective
A practical response to a real need.
Shepherds Not Sheep was founded by U.S. Army veteran Sergeant Michael Thielmeier after recognizing many of the challenges veterans can face when transitioning from military service into civilian life.
The organization is intended to combine professional partnerships with practical, hands-on education and mentorship.
We do not believe a veteran's hardest season should become their permanent identity. The work ahead is to create a stable environment where experience, resilience, and potential can be seen clearly.
A shared effort
The next chapter is built together.
Veterans, volunteers, educators, skilled tradespeople, businesses, and community partners all have a role in making reestablishment possible.
The long-term goal
Bring veterans and the people, organizations, and opportunities around them together around a common mission.
01 / Stability
Start with the basics and create room for the next decision.
02 / Skills
Pair mentorship with useful, practical opportunities to learn.
03 / Independence
Keep the destination in view: purpose, responsibility, and a future of one's own.
Be part of the foundation
The next chapter is a shared effort.
There is room for veterans, volunteers, educators, skilled tradespeople, businesses, and community partners in this work.