From combat boots to helping his community: This Veteran uses Spark Driver™ to Pursue His Dreams

Picture this. It’s the middle of the summer on the University of Southern Mississippi campus. It’s quiet, but there are some students walking through the quad and studying under the magnolia trees.

John Boyles is one of these students. He wanted to pivot from his career in the auto mechanic field to a more fulfilling career in social work and started attending the University of Southern Mississippi at Gulfport to earn his degree. A former army veteran who served in Iraq and Haiti, he wants to use his education to help other veterans reacclimate to life after service.

In his off time, he is also a driver on the Spark Driver™ platform since it provides him with the flexibility to drive at his leisure. Being able to make his own schedule allows him to spend more time on schoolwork, while creating more space for him to spend time and play video games with his kids.

His biggest piece of advice for prospective drivers is to not be discouraged. He says, “It’s definitely worth it to be patient. Once you get started. They will help you. If you have problems, you can ask the store associates.” 

If you see John making deliveries in Mississippi, make sure to give him a wave. As one of our June 2024 Make it Spark! giveaway winners, this is only the beginning of the success he can gain on the platform.

Make it Spark! is a biannual event that aims to recognize and thank drivers on the Spark Driver™ platform for providing exceptional service to customers of Walmart and our retail partners.