Veterans' Advisory Council

Nowlan, who serves as VP of Defense and Intelligence at August Interactive, brings over three decades of military intelligence leadership experience. A career Army Ranger and highly respected intelligence officer, Nowlan is known for his intellectual rigor and willingness to challenge conventional thinking. His commitment to authentic representation and deep understanding of the military community will be invaluable in guiding August Interactive's mission.

O'Keefe, a 20-year Army intelligence veteran and successful business executive, brings a unique perspective shaped by his journey from enlisted analyst to chief operating officer and CEO. After serving in conventional Army units and special mission units at Fort Bragg, O'Keefe transitioned to the private sector where he grew and sold a multi-million dollar company. His ability to bridge the military and business worlds while maintaining authentic connections makes him ideally suited to help shape August Interactive's military initiatives.

A 22-year-old from Michigan, SGT Nicholas Pyle joined the Michigan Army National Guard (MIARNG) in 2020. At the end of 2022 and throughout most of 2023, they served on a tour in Syria in support of Operation Inherent Resolve (OIR) as a Forward Observer. Since returning home, they have devoted their time to volunteer work and esports initiatives.

Pyle is currently the assistant varsity tennis coach at their local high school and a player on the U.S. Army Esports team. Their current pursuits include building their own esports organization and serving as the Community Event Manager for the WarriorGMR Foundation.

After connecting with the August Interactive team at the inaugural Gamers and Guardians event in November 2024, Pyle became deeply inspired by their mission to support veterans. They have since joined the Veterans Advisory Council, contributing valuable insights to represent the perspective of younger service members.

Mike Shipley brings 12 years of experience spanning Special Operations and conventional military service, culminating in a recent command within the 25th Infantry Division at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii. Enlisting in 2013 after graduating from Emory & Henry University, he served four years as a Team Leader in the 75th Ranger Regiment, deploying twice to Afghanistan during the Global War on Terror. In 2018, following his Master's degree from Virginia Tech, Mike was commissioned as an Infantry Officer, serving with the 173rd Airborne Brigade in Vicenza, Italy, and returning to the 75th Ranger Regiment. Currently residing in Hawaii with his wife Nikki and daughter Elizabeth, Mike enjoys surfing and paddleboarding on the North Shore. He also shares his passion for video games with his daughter, enjoying titles like Mario Party, Animal Crossing, and the latest Lego games.

A 22-year-old from Michigan, SGT Nicholas Pyle joined the Michigan Army National Guard (MIARNG) in 2020. At the end of 2022 and throughout most of 2023, they served on a tour in Syria in support of Operation Inherent Resolve (OIR) as a Forward Observer. Since returning home, they have devoted their time to volunteer work and esports initiatives.

Pyle is currently the assistant varsity tennis coach at their local high school and a player on the U.S. Army Esports team. Their current pursuits include building their own esports organization and serving as the Community Event Manager for the WarriorGMR Foundation.

After connecting with the August Interactive team at the inaugural Gamers and Guardians event in November 2024, Pyle became deeply inspired by their mission to support veterans. They have since joined the Veterans Advisory Council, contributing valuable insights to represent the perspective of younger service members.

SMSgt Mike Sullivan currently serves as the Command First Sergeant for Space Training and Readiness Command (STARCOM) in the U.S. Space Force. In this role, he advises the Commander and leaders throughout the 8,600 member Field Command on the readiness, morale, and welfare of personnel, providing critical leadership and guidance to ensure mission success.

Beyond his military duties, Mike has been a passionate leader in the gaming and esports community for over a decade. His involvement extends far beyond playing—he is committed to using gaming as a force for good, fostering connections, and driving meaningful impact. He has spearheaded gaming events at all levels, from local meetups to large-scale, multi-day productions, bringing together service members, veterans, and civilians alike.

SMSgt Sullivan has been a strong advocate for charitable causes, actively supporting organizations such as The USO, Extra Life, Special Operations Warrior Foundation, Gold Star Gamers, and more. His events not only raise awareness and funds for these organizations but also cultivate a sense of community among military members and veterans worldwide.

One of his most personally significant achievements was leading a small team of Airmen to launch Air Force Gaming, a program that now connects over 50,000 military personnel, veterans and their families through gaming and esports.

Victor Castro serves as the Deputy Director of the West Point Simulation Center at the United States Military Academy, where he combines expertise in military training, instructional design, and technology to develop innovative learning environments for cadets.

As a Department of Defense civilian specializing in modeling and simulation technologies, Victor focuses on bridging traditional military practices with modern needs, helping cadets build critical skills through engaging and effective training methods.

He is also the visionary behind West Point’s nationally ranked esports program, which he established in 2020. The program integrates the Academy’s pillars of character, physical, and military development while fostering teamwork, discipline, and leadership among cadets.

As a member of August Interactive’s Veterans Advisory Council, Victor brings a unique perspective grounded in years of experience in instructional design and program development. Known for his analytical mindset and solution-focused approach, he is committed to supporting veterans and their families through innovative initiatives in gaming and esports. Victor’s passion for gaming and his dedication to leadership and collaboration make him a valuable asset to the Council’s mission.

Jordan Amrhein is a U.S. Army veteran and esports leader studying Game Business and Esports at Full Sail University. A Pittsburgh native, Jordan has played key roles in the gaming community, including competing with and coaching the U.S. Army Esports Valorant team, captaining Full Sail Armada’s varsity Call of Duty team, and serving as a leader with the Pittsburgh Gaming Expo.

As a member of August Interactive’s Veterans Advisory Council, Jordan is passionate about using gaming to support veterans, build community, and reduce isolation.