Michael Nichols

Michael Nichols, also known as SSGT Nichols, has an esteemed 22-year career in Federal Service, comprising 12 years in the Marine Corps and 10 years at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). In the Marine Corps, he distinguished himself as a Drill Instructor and Senior Drill Instructor at MCRD San Diego, and served as a Platoon Sergeant and Platoon Commander in Iraq. His impactful service at the VA included roles as a Veteran Service Representative and Rating Veteran Service Representative, where he processed disability claims for veterans.

Notably, a documentary titled “Ears Open, Eyeballs, Click” was filmed during his tenure as a Senior Drill Instructor, later re-released as “Black Friday - Dark Dawn.” This series is now a training tool for Marine Corps recruiters. Additionally, Michael authored “Prepare for Enlisted Boot Camp.”

Currently, Michael is the Director of Military Operations for F45 Training, a global fitness company with over 3,600 studios in 74 countries. He developed the Veterans Impact Program, enhancing Combat Readiness with studios on military bases and Transitional Readiness through the DoD SkillBridge program. His efforts have aided over 1,000 service members in transitioning to the fitness industry and facilitated ownership opportunities for more than 20 veterans.

Married for over 21 years, Michael is a dedicated family man with three children and two grandchildren. He continues to influence the Armed Forces community as SSGT Nichols through his initiative, “The Past. The Present. The Future.”