From Service to CEO: The Power of Networking, Visibility & Relationships with James L. Collins
Sun Feb 01 2026
In this powerful and practical conversation, Healed and Chilled welcomes James L. Collins — veteran technology leader, former U.S. Diplomat, and Founder & CEO of Attucks IT Solutions, LLC.
With more than 35 years of service across the U.S. Government, Intelligence Community, and national security space, James brings a rare behind-the-scenes perspective on how careers are truly built — not just through skill, but through relationships, reputation, and the courage to put yourself out there.
In this interview, we dive deeply into the importance of networking, showing up in rooms before you feel “ready,” and how strategic connections can open doors you didn’t even know existed. James shares lessons from his journey — from serving as a U.S. Navy Communications Technical Officer, to leading global IT modernization efforts at the Department of State, to ultimately transitioning into entrepreneurship.
We talk about how visibility, trust, and consistency helped James navigate complex global environments, lead mission-critical programs, and successfully launch his own company after retirement from federal service. His insights are especially powerful for professionals, founders, and leaders who are ready to move beyond titles and start building lasting influence.
This episode is a reminder that networking isn’t about collecting contacts — it’s about creating meaningful connections that align with your purpose and your future.
✨ About James L. Collins:
James is a nationally respected Cyber Mission Enabler and Senior Telecommunications Manager with deep expertise in strategic planning, crisis management, IT security, and enterprise program leadership. After retiring from federal service in 2019, he continued supporting national security missions as a Department of Defense contractor before founding Attucks IT Solutions, LLC in 2022.
👩🏽💻 Hosted by Coach Yana, The Children’s Confidence Coach
🌐 https://www.thelaptoplifecoach.com
#HealedAndChilled #JamesLCollins #NetworkingMatters #PutYourselfOutThere #LeadershipDevelopment #CareerGrowth #FromServiceToCEO #StrategicRelationships #EntrepreneurshipJourney #VisibilityMatters
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In this powerful and practical conversation, Healed and Chilled welcomes James L. Collins — veteran technology leader, former U.S. Diplomat, and Founder & CEO of Attucks IT Solutions, LLC. With more than 35 years of service across the U.S. Government, Intelligence Community, and national security space, James brings a rare behind-the-scenes perspective on how careers are truly built — not just through skill, but through relationships, reputation, and the courage to put yourself out there. In this interview, we dive deeply into the importance of networking, showing up in rooms before you feel “ready,” and how strategic connections can open doors you didn’t even know existed. James shares lessons from his journey — from serving as a U.S. Navy Communications Technical Officer, to leading global IT modernization efforts at the Department of State, to ultimately transitioning into entrepreneurship. We talk about how visibility, trust, and consistency helped James navigate complex global environments, lead mission-critical programs, and successfully launch his own company after retirement from federal service. His insights are especially powerful for professionals, founders, and leaders who are ready to move beyond titles and start building lasting influence. This episode is a reminder that networking isn’t about collecting contacts — it’s about creating meaningful connections that align with your purpose and your future. ✨ About James L. Collins: James is a nationally respected Cyber Mission Enabler and Senior Telecommunications Manager with deep expertise in strategic planning, crisis management, IT security, and enterprise program leadership. After retiring from federal service in 2019, he continued supporting national security missions as a Department of Defense contractor before founding Attucks IT Solutions, LLC in 2022. 👩🏽💻 Hosted by Coach Yana, The Children’s Confidence Coach 🌐 https://www.thelaptoplifecoach.com #HealedAndChilled #JamesLCollins #NetworkingMatters #PutYourselfOutThere #LeadershipDevelopment #CareerGrowth #FromServiceToCEO #StrategicRelationships #EntrepreneurshipJourney #VisibilityMatters