PAUL SMITHS — Paul Smith’s College has announced its upcoming event, Operation Hardwater, spotlighting the rapid growth and real-world impact of Battlefish Academy.

From 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. this Saturday at the college, Operation Hardwater will showcase how the college, through Battlefish Academy, has helped guide veterans and transitioning service members into in-demand career pathways where they can thrive, such as licensed guiding, entrepreneurship and sustainable small businesses.

Operation Hardwater marks a significant milestone for Battlefish Academy, evolving from a newly conceptualized program into a leading model for supporting veterans and transitioning soldiers. To date, all of its graduates are employed, and over half have started their own small businesses. This momentum has enabled the growth of Paul Smith’s College’s veteran-oriented programming, which now includes its Troops to Timber and Top-Guide workforce initiatives.

“This event further positions Paul Smith’s College as a pre-eminent partner in supporting veterans and transitioning service members,” Paul Smith’s College President Dan Kelting said. “Battlefish Academy is part of a comprehensive strategy to serve those who have served us. We are building clear, tangible pathways that translate military experience into leadership, ownership and long-term economic opportunity.”

During Operation Hardwater, attendees will participate in an ice fishing adventure led by Top-Guide veteran graduates, tour the outpost site where hands-on instruction takes place, and hear a roadmap presentation for how Battlefish Academy plans to expand its reach through T2T.

“Through Battlefish Academy, we’re offering a suite of options that reflect the strengths and aspirations of veterans,” said Brett McLeod, dean of faculty at Paul Smith’s College. “Whether in forestry, guiding, or entrepreneurship, these programs are designed to meet veterans where they are and equip them for long-term success in high-demand industries.”

At the center of Operation Hardwater, and of the Academy’s growth, is its outcomes-based focus. Battlefish Academy turns training into business ownership, empowering graduates to launch guiding operations and sustainable small businesses that contribute to local and regional economies. With the addition of T2T, it will further this impact by preparing students for skilled careers in forestry, logging, arboriculture and forest management.

“Skills learned at Battlefish Academy turn into livelihoods,” Battlefish Academy founder and director AJ Beaudoin said. “Our graduates don’t just complete a program; they leave prepared to build something of their own. We’re seeing graduates step into leadership roles as licensed guides and entrepreneurs, proving that veterans and transitioning service members can find a pathway to success at Paul Smith’s College.”

For more information about Battlefish Academy, visit paulsmiths.edu.