Tony Teravainen

Support The Enlisted Project (STEP)

Mr. Teravainen is a vocal advocate for the public support of our military community. He founded and serves as CEO of Support The Enlisted Project (STEP), a nonprofit that serves young military families in financial crisis. During his 5-year tenure, Tony has overseen the support services of 4,800 young military and veteran families in financial crisis – moving more than 90% of them to a lifetime of financial self-sufficiency. Tony grew up in a military family and served as a U.S. Navy submariner, so he knows firsthand the hardships young military families endure. After his military career, Tony was the Chief Maintenance Engineer at a Sony Electronics, Inc. manufacturing facility, started several small businesses and consulted with Booz Allen Hamilton. Mr. Teravainen additionally serves our community as a Commissioner on San Diego’s Citizens Equal Opportunity Commission; as the Chairman of The San Diego Coast Guard City Committee; and was appointed to the San Diego County Veteran Advisory Council. Additionally, he volunteers in leadership positions on the San Diego Military Family Collaborative, San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce Defense, Veteran and Military Committee; and San Diego Veterans Coalition. In 2018, Tony performed on the TEDx Turtle Rock stage. Tony holds undergraduate degrees in business management and nuclear engineering, as well as a master’s degree in executive leadership from The University of San Diego. He holds licenses in Six Sigma, Project Management and Change Management, holds one U.S. patent, and earned the Submarine Service insignia during his military service.