Professional Soft Skills & Leadership Training
Our Unique Value Proposition
Unlocking Leadership Potential and Ensuring Organizational Success Through Targeted Soft Skills Training
Many organizations promote top-performing individual contributors into management and leadership roles, yet without the necessary skills or interest, these employees may struggle. The result?
Reduced productivity from a previously stellar performer and a less effective manager, impacting the organization’s bottom line and the morale and careers of their teams.
Similarly, exceptional students don’t always translate into high-performing professionals, leaving universities’ recruitment and development efforts under-leveraged when it comes to producing influential alumni.
The solution lies in a strategic investment in professional soft skills and leadership training, ensuring effective transitions in critical career phases:
1) Student to intern
2) Graduate to contributor
3) Contributor to supervisor
Without investing in these foundational skills, corporations may face higher turnover, reduced employee satisfaction, and costly recruitment cycles—resulting in losses equivalent to 50% of an employee’s annual compensation when factoring in replacement and retraining costs. The impact extends further to cohesion, institutional knowledge, and morale. Investing in soft skills and leadership development strengthens team alignment, retains talent, and ultimately drives shareholder value.
Similarly, universities that prepare students to thrive in a globalized workplace—by equipping them with practical professional skills alongside academic knowledge—are better positioned to produce influential alumni who excel in the non-academic world.
Our Offerings:
We provide hands-on, experience-driven training in Leadership and Professional Soft Skills for early- and mid-level corporate professionals, as well as for aspiring students.
Our services include: In-Person Sessions Virtual, Instructor-Led Training
Online and On-Demand Courses
Additional services include talent sourcing and keynote speaking engagements tailored to inspire and elevate corporate teams.
“Beyond the Hard Skills”
Elevate Your Team's Impact with Soft Skills Training
In today’s fast-paced environment, technical knowledge alone is not enough. High-performing teams need the critical “soft skills” that drive collaboration, leadership, and adaptability to excel in the modern workplace.
Our Beyond The Hard Skills workshop empowers your employees with these essential capabilities—unlocking their potential and boosting your organization’s bottom line.
Workshop Highlights:
Enhanced Communication & Collaboration: Break down silos and foster productive teamwork.
Emotional Intelligence & Adaptability: Equip employees to navigate change with confidence and resilience.
Time Management & Prioritization: Increase productivity with proven strategies to handle competing priorities.
Effective Problem Solving: Develop critical thinking for tackling complex challenges.
Leadership at Every Level: Inspire ownership and accountability across the organization.
Investing in soft skills is an investment in sustainable growth. By developing these foundational skills, your team members will be equipped to deliver stronger results, elevate customer satisfaction, and reinforce company culture.
Empower your organization with Beyond The Hard Skills and set your talent apart.
“Wall Street Decoded”
Unlock Your Path to Wall Street Success!
Are you ready to turn your ambition into a thriving career in Investment Banking or Sales & Trading? This immersive, full-day seminar—delivered virtually—gives you critical knowledge to stand out in these highly competitive fields.
In Wall Street Decoded, you’ll gain:
A Real-World Overview of Capital Markets: Understand how each piece of the financial puzzle fits together and why it matters.
Insight into Early Career Roles: Discover the skills and attributes that top firms seek in new hires.
Actionable Prep & Interviewing Tips: Get practical advice on navigating recruitment, acing interviews, and landing your ideal role.
Keys to a Standout Internship and Beyond: Learn strategies to maximize your impact as an intern and set yourself up for a full-time offer.
Take advantage of this exclusive opportunity to prepare for a successful career on Wall Street
“From Classroom to Corporate"
Equipping Interns/New Grads for Workplace Success
The leap from university life to the corporate world is transformative but challenging. In college, students benefit from flexible schedules, theory-based learning, and close academic support. But in the workplace, they face new demands: time management, proactive problem-solving, prioritizing client needs, working within complex hierarchies, and navigating high-stakes deadlines with less room for error.
Our "From Classroom to Corporate" seminar bridges this gap, preparing entry-level professionals to thrive from day one.
Through real-world insights, practical skills, and cultural awareness, this program helps new employees:
Gain Situational Awareness: Understand workplace dynamics, organizational structure, and the expectations of their roles.
Build Professional Competence: Learn essential skills in time management, client communication, and adapting to fast-paced environments.
Develop a Growth Mindset: Cultivate resilience, self-motivation, and a proactive approach to career development.
Foster Positive Beginnings: Start their careers with confidence, cultural understanding, and a clear pathway to success.
"From Classroom to Corporate" is designed to ensure a smooth and productive transition for new graduates entering your organization, setting the foundation for professional growth and long-term retention.
"Climb To the Top"
Coming Q4 2024: "Climb To The Top"
Get ready for Climb To The Top: Self-Management, Development & Wellness – Your Path to Career Success and Wellness - an engaging and affordable online course that brings you 60+ episodes of practical guidance for a successful, fulfilling career.
Available on-demand, this course is perfect for individuals, universities, and corporate teams, with monthly subscription options that fit your budget.
Based on 30+ years of industry experience across the US Army, Investment Banking, Sales & Trading, and Talent Development, Climb To The Top is accessible worldwide, offering valuable insights to help you master self-management, advance your career, and prioritize wellness along the way.
Start your journey toward success and fulfillment with Climb To The Top!
"Empowering Veteran Transitions"
Unlock the Potential of Mission-Driven Talent
Each year, around 250,000 service members transition to civilian life, offering corporations a unique, untapped talent pool of highly skilled, mission-focused individuals.
Our Veteran Transition Training Seminar provides invaluable insights, real-world stories, and practical advice from veterans who have successfully navigated this journey and built thriving careers.
This seminar is tailored for service members preparing to transition within the next year, as well as recently transitioned veterans in corporate roles, universities, and sponsored programs. By supporting veterans in building successful post-service careers, your organization gains motivated, adaptable, and resilient talent ready to drive impactful results.
Targeted Talent Sourcing
Leveraging Decades of Expertise in Talent Development
Frank connects organizations with a diverse, highly motivated pool of entry-level and lateral talent across Corporate sectors—including specialized Finance roles in Investment and Corporate Banking, Sales & Trading, and Private Equity. His network includes top students and emerging professionals inspired by his own path, with a special focus on transitioning military veterans, first-generation college students, and individuals from a broad range of DE&I backgrounds.
By partnering with Frank, your organization gains access to talent that not only aligns with your mission but brings unique perspectives and dedication to drive success.
Engage Frank for Keynotes & Panel
On Talent, Transition, and Business Excellence
Frank brings a wealth of knowledge and firsthand experience to his speaking engagements, covering a broad range of topics such as talent development, the unique challenges and experiences of military veterans, career transitions, recruiting strategies, Investment Banking and Sales & Trading, and fostering strong organizational cultures.
With dynamic insights rooted in his own journey, Frank connects with audiences across industries, inspiring and equipping them with actionable takeaways. A video sample above highlights his impactful address at the December 16, 2023, Shippensburg University Winter Commencement ceremony.
1-on-1 Coaching with Frank
Customized Support for Lasting Success
On a very limited basis, Frank provides one-on-one coaching tailored to individual needs, available on a situational (as-needed) or regular basis. Coaching sessions are customized following an initial assessment, ensuring a personalized approach to achieving each client’s goals. Sessions are conducted in a secure, confidential environment, with optional recordings available for further review.
Clients can choose a frequency that fits their needs, with each 30 minute session covering a range of life, career, wellness, and success strategies to support their journey toward personal and professional growth.
"l heard Frank speak at numerous events geared towards veteran recruitment and breaking
into the finance industry from the military. He is a well-spoken, insightful, and experienced
speaker who knows how to engage his audience and deliver a message. His experience, both
in the military and in finance, give him credibility and authority on most any subject. On a
personal level, Frank has been a mentor to me, and other veterans like me. He is a caring
individual who truly preaches career-advancing advice. If you have the privilege of listening to
him speak, or to engage with him, I hope you take notes because what he is delivering is truth."
Victor PerezVictor Perez l Wells Fargo Head of Veterans Segment 
"The list of military veterans with impressive public/private sector resumes is long and Frank's
is no exception. What sets Frank apart is his unique ability to break down his experiences and
gained wisdom into simple concepts that can resonate with anyone. The first time I met him
he was presenting on the relationship between the private side of investment banking and the
public side of sales & trading. Prior to meeting Frank, I often found myself in over my head
when the vague and complex world of "finance" ever came up. In 30 minutes Frank had given
me a comprehensive roadmap, easily internalized, that I use to this day as a Managing Director.
Always the optimist, Frank is an inspirational and magnetic spirit. His vast network of
relationships built over a career are a true reflection of what a special person he is."
Casey CarrollCasey Carroll I Wells Fargo Managing Director, Debt Capital Markets 
"Frank has a lifetime of success and what I call a mastery of life skills. He has successfully
served our country, raised an amazing family, and navigated the difficult world of high finance.
Frank is one of the most impactful speakers I have seen. He has the ability to shed clarity, give
direction and motivate in a way that connects with whom he is talking to — especially when
Frank talks to younger generations. Frank has the ability to capture and hold the attention of
those he is talking to, allowing his message to not only be heard, but internalized. Frank's
selfless spirit and willingness to share his wisdom has made a meaningful impact on many."
Mark Adamson Wells Fargo 
"Frank Van Buren generously shared his compelling story and advice, and it has inspired many
in our community of transitioning veterans. His communication skills and ability to explain the
complex world of high-finance to an audience, in practical terms that are digestible to the
veteran considering this career field, is absolutely vital in our mission to help those who
served our nation. I highly recommend Frank Van Buren if you are looking for an energetic,
knowledgeable and persuasive speaker to motivate an audience in a positive manner."
Justin NassariJustin Nassari I CEO Executive Presence 
"l have known Frank VanBuren for more than 15 years, and the characteristic I would use to
describe his personality is "great communicator". Whether Frank is explaining a complicated
financial situation to a seasoned peer, or teaching basic professional skills to a classroom full
of new hires straight out of college, Frank is articulate, concise, informed and, most
importantly, effective. Frank's been a leader throughout his life, whether it's as an athlete,
military aviator, or senior finance profession, and people follow him because he's constantly
communicating the path."
Neil GiardinoNeil Giardino I Regions Bank Managing Director, Debt Capital Markets 
"Frank served as a guest speaker for the Wake Forest Summer Immersion Business and
Entrepreneurship Institute and was both engaging and knowledgeable.
His ability to translate high-level finance and banking concepts into scenarios high school
students understand and can apply is unmatched! Thank you for helping develop and
positively impact our students and their future."
Kyla HollingsworthWake Forest Univ, Executive Director, Pre-College Programs 
Frank is an influential speaker whose authentic and inspirational stories connect with a wide
variety of audiences. He articulates complex subject matter in practical and relevant terms.
His unique background combines with a passion for teaching and draws people in immediately.
More than just a skilled orator, Frank's affable and engaging personality allows him to connect
easily with his audience on a personal level. One on one, he tailors his content and provides
insights and guidance into finding success in all areas of life."
JD Schurter JD Schurter I Wells Fargo CFO, Structured Products Group 
"l heard Frank speak at numerous events geared towards veteran recruitment and breaking
into the finance industry from the military. He is a well-spoken, insightful, and experienced
speaker who knows how to engage his audience and deliver a message. His experience, both
in the military and in finance, give him credibility and authority on most any subject. On a
personal level, Frank has been a mentor to me, and other veterans like me. He is a caring
individual who truly preaches career-advancing advice. If you have the privilege of listening to
him speak, or to engage with him, I hope you take notes because what he is delivering is truth."
"The list of military veterans with impressive public/private sector resumes is long and Frank's
is no exception. What sets Frank apart is his unique ability to break down his experiences and
gained wisdom into simple concepts that can resonate with anyone. The first time I met him
he was presenting on the relationship between the private side of investment banking and the
public side of sales & trading. Prior to meeting Frank, I often found myself in over my head
when the vague and complex world of "finance" ever came up. In 30 minutes Frank had given
me a comprehensive roadmap, easily internalized, that I use to this day as a Managing Director.
Always the optimist, Frank is an inspirational and magnetic spirit. His vast network of
relationships built over a career are a true reflection of what a special person he is."
"Frank has a lifetime of success and what I call a mastery of life skills. He has successfully
served our country, raised an amazing family, and navigated the difficult world of high finance.
Frank is one of the most impactful speakers I have seen. He has the ability to shed clarity, give
direction and motivate in a way that connects with whom he is talking to — especially when
Frank talks to younger generations. Frank has the ability to capture and hold the attention of
those he is talking to, allowing his message to not only be heard, but internalized. Frank's
selfless spirit and willingness to share his wisdom has made a meaningful impact on many."
"Frank Van Buren generously shared his compelling story and advice, and it has inspired many
in our community of transitioning veterans. His communication skills and ability to explain the
complex world of high-finance to an audience, in practical terms that are digestible to the
veteran considering this career field, is absolutely vital in our mission to help those who
served our nation. I highly recommend Frank Van Buren if you are looking for an energetic,
knowledgeable and persuasive speaker to motivate an audience in a positive manner."
"l have known Frank VanBuren for more than 15 years, and the characteristic I would use to
describe his personality is "great communicator". Whether Frank is explaining a complicated
financial situation to a seasoned peer, or teaching basic professional skills to a classroom full
of new hires straight out of college, Frank is articulate, concise, informed and, most
importantly, effective. Frank's been a leader throughout his life, whether it's as an athlete,
military aviator, or senior finance profession, and people follow him because he's constantly
communicating the path."
"Frank served as a guest speaker for the Wake Forest Summer Immersion Business and
Entrepreneurship Institute and was both engaging and knowledgeable.
His ability to translate high-level finance and banking concepts into scenarios high school
students understand and can apply is unmatched! Thank you for helping develop and
positively impact our students and their future."
Frank is an influential speaker whose authentic and inspirational stories connect with a wide
variety of audiences. He articulates complex subject matter in practical and relevant terms.
His unique background combines with a passion for teaching and draws people in immediately.
More than just a skilled orator, Frank's affable and engaging personality allows him to connect
easily with his audience on a personal level. One on one, he tailors his content and provides
insights and guidance into finding success in all areas of life."
