Military veteran chooses BGSU for academic excellence, safety and family-friendly atmosphere

After serving his country, Jeffrey Mustard turned his focus to BGSU, recognizing its safety and military friendly rankings

By Branden Ferguson

Looking to develop a strong foundation for a future career, Jeffrey Mustard followed in his family's footsteps, enlisting and serving in the U.S. military after graduating from high school.

"I knew that whether I served for 20 years or completed a shorter contract, the military would set me up for success," said Mustard. "I also valued the GI Bill, knowing it would provide excellent education opportunities when I was ready to transition to civilian life."

After serving five years in the U.S. Navy as a submarine sonar technician, Mustard continued to serve his country, working as a contractor to install, maintain and repair submarine systems for the U.S. Navy fleet.

Stationed in Norfolk, Virginia, Mustard decided to utilize the GI Bill and start looking at colleges. He turned his focus to Bowling Green State University, ranked as one of the 50 safest college towns in America by Research.com.

"My choice of BGSU was strategic and family-focused," said Mustard. "As a husband and father of two beautiful children, finding a university in a safe, welcoming community was paramount. The family-friendly atmosphere, safe neighborhoods, excellent city infrastructure and reliable utilities create an ideal environment for veteran families.

"Within 20 minutes of our home, we have access to beautiful parks, children's activities, quality churches and vibrant farmers markets."

With his family's safety and happiness secured, Mustard turned his attention to the nationally accredited BGSU construction management program.

After years of experience working on submarines, Mustard witnessed firsthand the incredible complexity, precision and coordination required in large-scale construction projects. To help him prepare for a career in construction management, Mustard selected the only higher education institution in Ohio that prioritizes the approach of construction management students working with and learning alongside peers in architecture and environmental design.

"The program's comprehensive design allows me to combine my technical background, leadership experience and passion for building into a meaningful and lasting career," Mustard said.

Taking a hands-on approach to learning and applying construction management practices, Mustard's fear of adapting to academic life quickly disappeared.

"I remember being genuinely shocked by the support and willingness to help from everyone I encountered," he said. "The faculty at BGSU truly value veteran students for our engagement, work ethic and real-world perspective.

"Multiple professors have also demonstrated exceptional understanding of my commitments as a husband and father, working with me to ensure I can excel academically while maintaining my family responsibilities."

Mustard is excelling academically, landing an internship this summer at Kwest Group LLC, a civil and environmental construction company in Perrysburg, as a member of their project management team. Each day, he applies his existing skill sets, learns from his peers and supports the team by researching, contacting and consulting with vendors and subcontractors on projects ranging from electrical substations and transmission lines to working with the public Department of Transportation.

"The construction management program provided me with both the technical foundation and industry knowledge essential for success in this internship," said Mustard. "The experiential learning opportunities in the classroom directly translated to real-world applications on my current projects."

Ranked as the No. 1 university in the Midwest for veterans and military students in four consecutive years, BGSU has had a profoundly positive impact on Mustard's academic and career journey.

"Bowling Green is rightfully recognized as one of America's best college towns," he said. "While my experience differs from that of traditional students due to my family responsibilities and military background, BGSU has a remarkable community culture both on campus and throughout the surrounding area.

"BGSU is committed to supporting military-affiliated students, creating an environment where veterans can thrive academically while maintaining work-life balance."

With plans to graduate in Spring 2027, Mustard is eager to continue his work with Kwest Group throughout the remainder of his time at BGSU — grateful to have found an organization that prioritizes hiring and supporting veterans.

"The combination of my naval experience, BGSU's outstanding education and Kwest Group's mentorship are preparing me for a successful career in construction management," said Mustard. "I'm proud to represent all three organizations and look forward to contributing to Ohio's construction industry while continuing to serve my community in new ways."