The relationship between speaking and construction

Paul Lawrence Vann’s speaking career began in 1986 while assigned to Scott Air Force. He was encouraged to compete for the coveted Command Briefing team at Headquarters Air Force Communications Command.

Captain Vann was competitively selected and spoke to students using a nine projector slide presentation, meaning he had to nail his speech spot on; otherwise members of the audience would be able to see he was not on track with the slides.

Paul delivered speeches to students at Boston University, University of Connecticut, Norwich University, St. Michaels College and the University of Missouri at Rolla.

Paul Lawrence Vann retired from the United States Air Force after 20 years of honorable service. He retired in the rank of lieutenant colonel after serving 12 consecutive years in the Pentagon, in addition to a year as a Capitol Hill Fellow working for Congressman Patrick J. Kennedy in the U.S. House of Representatives.

In 2003, Paul’s passion for speaking resulted in him resigning from his position as a defense contractor. He became an entrepreneur, leading Laurel Wreath Communications and has been speaking professionally for over nine years.

Prior to retiring Paul joined Word Wrights Toastmaster Club in Fort Washington, Maryland and rapidly improved his speaking skills and abilities through his passion for delivering speeches. Paul understood the value of leadership and communications skills and enjoyed the full process.

Paul’s first speaking coach was the late Dottie Walter’s, author of the book, Speak and Grow Rich. A few years later he attended the Bill Gove Speech Workshop and it sky rocketed his speaking career. Understanding the value of having good coaches and mentors, Paul attended John Childers, Million Dollar Speaker Program (persuasive speaking).