From Combat Controller to Contractor: How Daniel Roberts Found His Next Mission in Roofing

Keywords: franchise, franchise owner, roofing contractor, roofer, Raleigh

From the bluegrass of Kentucky to the frontlines of Air Force Special Operations, Daniel Roberts has never shied away from a challenge. After earning his business degree from the University of Kentucky and serving as an elite Combat Controller, Daniel returned home ready to apply his discipline and leadership to a new mission. In January 2025, he launched the V.C. Veterans Contracting franchise in Raleigh, North Carolina, offering quality roofing services to the Triangle area.

Franchise Owner Q&A with Daniel

1. What motivated you to start your own roofing or construction business after leaving the military?
I wanted a role with more autonomy and the ability to maximize value for my capabilities as quickly as possible. Home services, specifically roofing, drew my interest because it appeared to be the most sustainable source of projects. Everyone has a roof.

2. What made franchising, specifically a Veteran-focused franchise, the right fit for you?
Franchising made the most sense because it allows me to lean on experts while learning and growing the business. A Veteran-focused franchise is also better equipped to handle challenges as they come. The resiliency and brotherhood you become accustomed to in the military is hard to find in the civilian world. Knowing I have someone I can count on when problems arise is very important to me.

3. In your own words, what was the biggest fear or unknown when you decided to take the leap?
Failure that would be out of my control.

4. Many Veterans miss the sense of purpose and teamwork after transitioning out. Have you found that again here?
I’m slowly building toward it. The best part about this opportunity is that you can build your own team and culture as you grow.

5. How did Battalion Brands prepare you for the operational side of business ownership?
They helped me set up insurance, accounts, and find a location. The introductions to suppliers and insight into managing relationships have also been invaluable as I continue to grow.

6. How has owning your own business changed your family life or financial outlook?
The sky is the limit. After a few months, you start to see that it’s all about inputs and outputs. Once you identify what actions create the right results, it becomes a question of how hard you’re willing to work. There isn’t a magic bullet to success, but the guidance is there to keep you focused — if you stay disciplined and trust the process, the success will come.

7. What accomplishment or project are you most proud of since launching your business?
Any time you can install a roof for someone in the local community, and know they chose you because they trust you to do a good job, it’s rewarding.

8. How has your business impacted your local community or other Veterans?
We’ve been able to solve roofing problems for Veterans in several cases at no cost, and that’s always rewarding.

9. How would you describe Battalion Brands to someone who’s never heard of it?
Battalion Brands is helping solve one of today’s biggest challenges — finding meaningful work for highly talented Veterans after they leave the service.

10. What’s next for you and your business?
We have our sights set on installing more than 150 roofs next year across the Raleigh area, with at least two of those being completely free of charge for Veterans in need.

Daniel’s story reflects what franchising was designed to do — give Veterans a clear path to business ownership and success in the trades. His dedication to service, leadership, and community defines what it means to build with purpose. To learn more about opportunities with V.C. Veterans Contracting or to join our growing network of Veteran-owned roofing companies, visit www.battalionbrands.com