Justin Callahan (see Justin's Video) is a veteran of Operation Enduring Freedom and the inspiration behind the new Hire Heroes program. Justin worked in the corporate world for  three years upon retiring from the Army in 2004, and  is now helping his fellow veterans with disabilities realize their own career aspirations.

A Sergeant in the U.S. Army, Callahan was wounded in a land mine explosion while serving in Afghanistan. He underwent seven surgeries and extensive physical therapy after the amputation of his ankle and foot.

While undergoing treatment at Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Callahan and John Bardis, MedAssets’ chairman, president and CEO, met by chance in a hotel lobby. The two discussed Callahan’s experience and Bardis extended a job offer. Callahan accepted Bardis’ offer and started working at MedAssets when he officially retired from the Army.

While Callahan was fortunate to have a job before leaving the military, he admits the transition to civilian work was challenging. Working at a desk behind a computer all day was not his day-to-day routine in the military. Having to completely change career paths and sometimes accept limitations are enormous hurdles for veterans with disabilities. Callahan’s experience created awareness and understanding of such challenges and inspired the creation of Hire Heroes.

Callahan now serves as an account manager for the Hire Heroes program and is helping to make career placement easier for his fellow veterans with disabilities.