When Brigadier General Steve Feldmann of the U.S. Army Reserve and his son Adam Feldmann, a veteran who spent nine years in the Army National Guard, decided to transition from military service to business ownership, they sought franchise opportunities in Iowa, a path that would allow them to continue serving their community while building a sustainable future. Through PuroClean’s PuroVet Program, the Feldmanns found exactly that—an opportunity to bring world-class property restoration services to Iowa with the full backing of a proven franchise system.
A Lifelong Military Journey
For Steve Feldmann, service has been the defining constant of his life. His military career began in 1973, when he joined the United States Marine Corps immediately after graduating high school. He went straight to boot camp, served four years on active duty, and then transitioned into the Marine Corps Reserve.
While attending college, Steve continued to rise through the ranks, becoming a Staff Sergeant before shifting his service to the Iowa Army National Guard. In 1984, he attended Officer Candidate School, graduating as a Second Lieutenant. His career later took him to the National War College, where his leadership trajectory accelerated. Four years later, he earned the rank of Brigadier General.
Steve was deployed to Afghanistan as the Commanding General for Army Materiel Command, overseeing critical logistics and supply operations for U.S. and allied forces. His lifelong dedication to service laid the foundation for his transition to civilian business leadership.
PuroClean: The Paramedics of Property Damage®
Known as The Paramedics of Property Damage, PuroClean responds quickly to water, fire, mold, and biohazard emergencies. For Steve and Adam, this mission-driven work felt like a natural extension of their military backgrounds—protecting, restoring, and helping families and businesses recover in times of crisis.
The Feldmanns began their business journey with the launch of their first PuroClean franchise in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Building on that success, have since expanded with a second location in Des Moines. Together, they are using the leadership and resilience forged in uniform to serve their communities in times of need.
During a recent podcast episode on Veterans Radio with host Jim Fausone, the father-and-son team shared how their journey from transitioning military service to business partners has been shaped by PuroClean’s support and structure.
Training, Staffing, and Problem-Solving
Starting and expanding a business as a family team brings unique challenges, but the Feldmanns credit PuroClean’s comprehensive training program as a crucial foundation. From technical skills to business operations, the training gave both Steve and Adam the confidence to take ownership of not just one, but now two franchise locations.
They also discussed the process of staffing their Iowa teams. Leadership, discipline, and problem-solving skills refined through their military service proved invaluable in recruiting and managing reliable crews across both Cedar Rapids and Des Moines. By applying their Marine- and Army-tested principles, the Feldmanns are building a culture of accountability and excellence within their businesses.
Problem-solving is at the heart of the restoration industry, and the Feldmanns embrace it. Every job presents new challenges, but with PuroClean’s systems and their own resilience, they are equipped to deliver solutions when customers need them most.
Tremendous Corporate Support and National Insurance Network Access
One of the biggest selling points for the Feldmanns was the extensive support provided by PuroClean’s Home Office Team. From day one, they received hands-on guidance, marketing resources, and operational tools that made launching their franchises smoother and more sustainable.
After entering the Franchise Owner network, the Feldmann’s worked closely with PuroClean’s Support Staff and entered into program work through PuroClean’s National Insurance carrier partnerships. This network is a game-changer for new Franchise Owners, as it connects them directly with insurance partners who assign restoration jobs. For the Feldmanns, this meant they could quickly build a steady flow of work without starting from scratch to develop those critical relationships.As Adam shared, “The corporate support and the ability to be part of PuroClean’s insurance network gave us confidence right away. We knew we’d have opportunities to prove ourselves and grow.”
Veterans Empowering Communities
The Feldmanns’ story embodies the mission of PuroVet: Empowering veterans to transform their military leadership into business success. By opening two PuroClean franchises in Iowa—Cedar Rapids and Des Moines—this father-and-son team is not only securing their own future but also strengthening their communities with vital restoration franchise services.
For Brigadier General Steve Feldmann, the transition from Marine recruit to Army General, and now business leader, reflects a lifetime of service. For Adam Feldmann, following in his father’s footsteps through his own nine years in the National Guard, the journey demonstrates how military experience can powerfully translate into veteran entrepreneurship.
Together, their move from serving their country to serving their neighbors feels like a natural continuation of their lifelong commitment to protect and rebuild.
Are You a Veteran Ready to Take the Next Step?
PuroClean’s PuroVet Program was created specifically to empower veterans with the tools, resources, and support needed to thrive as Franchise Owners. Veterans receive exclusive financial incentives, comprehensive training programs, and ongoing operational support that make franchising opportunities for veterans more accessible and sustainable.
Backed by the strength of PuroClean’s national brand—known as The Paramedics of Property Damage—you’ll have the opportunity to build a business that not only creates long-term financial stability. At the same time, it allows you to serve your community in meaningful ways.
With mentorship, access to PuroClean’s national insurance network, and a proven customer pipeline, the PuroVet Program ensures you won’t have to take this step alone. You’ll be part of a team committed to your success from day one.
Turn your military experience into business success. Learn more about PuroClean franchise opportunities in Iowa and beyond – start your journey by visiting PuroVet.com or calling 855-PUROVET today!
