Through SkillBridge, Transitioning Service Members Gain Hands-On Experience Within Mainline Brands’ Franchise Businesses
Veterans have long found success in franchising thanks to the leadership, discipline and teamwork they bring from their military experience. According to the International Franchise Association’s VetFran program, veterans make up about 7% of the U.S. population but represent 14% of franchise owners, showing just how strong the connection is between military service and franchise success. Main Line Brands has a deep respect for those who have served and recognizes the value veterans bring to business ownership.
Main Line Brands, parent company of Fitness Machine Technicians, Mosquito Authority and Pest Authority, is an approved industry partner of the Department of Defense SkillBridge program, which allows service members in their final 180 days of duty to gain meaningful civilian work experience through structured apprenticeships, internships and training.
Through SkillBridge, transitioning service members gain hands-on experience within Main Line Brands’ franchise businesses — working directly alongside local owners to learn daily operations and how franchising works. The program eases their transition to civilian life while connecting them to the teamwork, discipline and service-driven culture that define Main Line Brands. For franchisees, it offers access to highly skilled, motivated individuals ready to make an impact in their communities.
“We are proud to stand with veterans and grateful for the opportunity to support them through SkillBridge and beyond. At Main Line Brands, our mission is rooted in service, and we believe there is no greater honor than helping those who have served our country successfully transition into their next career,” says Davis Murphy, director of franchise development.
Here, Murphy shares more about the program and how Main Line Brands helps service members take the next step in their careers.
1. What inspired Main Line Brands to create and support this initiative?
Supporting veterans has always been close to my heart. I’ve spent nearly two decades working with tactical communities, so I’ve seen firsthand the challenges service members face when transitioning to civilian life. When I joined Main Line Brands, I wanted to help create a bridge between military service and entrepreneurship.
Securing SkillBridge approval was a proud moment — not just for me, but for our entire team. Everyone here shares a deep respect for those who’ve served, and we see this program as both a responsibility and an opportunity to give back in a meaningful way.
2. How do you see franchising as a good fit for veterans entering the workforce?
Franchising is a natural fit for veterans because it combines structure with entrepreneurship. Veterans are used to following proven systems, staying mission-focused, and leading teams — skills that directly translate into running a successful franchise.
Through SkillBridge, participants see franchise operations from the inside. That experience often leads to either a job offer within the business or the confidence to pursue ownership of their own territory with a clear understanding of what it takes to succeed.
3. What resources or support systems does Main Line Brands provide to veteran franchisees beyond the initial transition?
Veterans in our system benefit from training, mentorship and ongoing field support. During SkillBridge, participants follow a structured training schedule that provides hands-on experience across every aspect of the business. For those who choose to pursue ownership, we also offer a 15% discount on new territories. Most importantly, veterans join a network built on collaboration, shared learning and long-term success.
4. How has your military-focused initiative impacted the culture and growth of Main Line Brands?
The response from our network has been overwhelmingly positive. Franchisees see SkillBridge as both a way to give back to service members and an opportunity to strengthen their own businesses with disciplined, mission-driven talent. This initiative has reinforced our culture of service and created a point of pride across our brands. It also strengthens our franchise development story by showing prospective owners that Main Line Brands is committed to building more than businesses — we’re building a community of impact.
5. What message would you like to share with veterans who may be considering franchise ownership as their next chapter?
Franchise ownership is a powerful way to carry leadership, discipline and resilience into civilian life. SkillBridge allows veterans to ‘test drive’ a business while still serving, so they can build confidence and skills before stepping into entrepreneurship.
Our message is simple: You already have the qualities to succeed. With the right system and support, you can turn them into a thriving business and a meaningful next mission.
About Main Line Brands
Main Line Brands is a residential and commercial service franchisor with a portfolio that includes Fitness Machine Technicians, Mosquito Authority and Pest Authority. Founded in 2020, the company was created to support service-based franchise brands with strong systems, experienced leadership and room for growth. Its brands serve everyday needs in growing categories, from mosquito and pest control to fitness equipment repair and maintenance. Fitness Machine Technicians joined the portfolio in 2022, expanding Main Line Brands beyond pest control and into the fitness service space. Today, the company operates more than 850 franchise territories nationwide and is focused on helping franchise owners build dependable, community-based businesses.
Learn more about Main Line Brands.
