Matt Kress leads the Veterans and Military Affairs (VAMA) program at Starbucks Coffee Company, with a focus on strategic initiatives, national partnerships and mental health and wellness in the military and first responder communities. Prior to his position at Starbucks, he served in the Marine Corps for 22 years as an enlisted Marine and commissioned officer in both active duty and reserve assignments. After leaving active duty, he spent 10 years as a Firefighter/EMT in Southern California.