From Vet to Executive: Andrew Costa

Andrew Costa

Rank: Captain (honorable discharge in 2016)
Service: Air Force
Years: 5
Current Company: RX3 Growth Partners
Role: Partner
Industry: Consumer Growth Equity Investors

Why did you enter the military? Beyond a calling, I was attracted to the academics, rigor and comradery.

Enlistment age? Attended the Air Force Academy at age 18-22; Active Duty 22-27
Where did you serve? Mostly stateside with training and operations in Kunsan and Ramstein

What did you learn? Humility. As a 22-year-old lieutenant, to be looked to for answers from folks who have 10x your experience was a humbling experience and responsibility. Building trust beyond the rank structure and leading with uncompromising compassion were the two traits that were formed early.

What could you do in the military that you couldn’t do in civilian life? It was constantly a “pinch me” experience—learning to fly, shoot and experience the world with a singular mission was truly unique.

What was the biggest lesson you learned about discipline? It compounds. Menial tasks done well provide the scaffolding for transformative actions to take place.

How has the military helped your business career? The high stakes cadence and discipline certainly helped me find a calm in the chaos during my investment banking days which built into our current fund.