LEGACY OF VIRGINIA

Matt, a Virginia native, leads Legacy of Virginia’s team out of Legacy’s Virginia Beach office. Matt has experience as a Business Development Manager for kSARIA Service Corporation, a leading manufacturer and installation company specializing in mission-critical aerospace and defense connectivity solutions. kSARIA installs C5ISR systems across the U.S. Navy fleet, supporting critical defense operations. With over 17 years of experience in operations, program, and project management, Matt has worked extensively with Surface Navy and Submarine systems, developing expertise in government contracting, defense technology integration, and strategic operations. He has experience as a Program Manager at kSARIA, leading large-scale fiber optic training programs and installation projects, and as Operations Director at Solvere Technical Group, overseeing high-level strategic operations for defense sector initiatives. Matt is deeply connected to the local community and has built strong relationships with small and medium-sized businesses in the region.

Mike has over 32 years building and operating businesses across Virginia. He has founded and scaled multiple companies specializing in assembly and repair, air quality, moisture control, remediation and electrical.

At 21, Mike managed Northern Indiana and Illinois territories for MDC Services. At 23, Mike started his own business, Assembly Plus Unlimited. At 30, Mike crossed over into the air quality and moisture control industry to manage Drying solutions. His leadership and process control methods allowed the company to have a complete 180-degree turnaround in 4 months. This success enabled the owner to sell his company and retire after 4 years. This led to Mike starting Clean Air Solutions and developing new technology he patented for moisture control that is still being utilized to this day. He acquired Gilbert and Son Structural Services in 2012 and expanded the services they offer. He combined his extensive knowledge of air quality, moisture, and structural components of the entire building envelope. Most importantly, he incorporated his process control methods that he has utilized for 3 decades. Currently, his company is being run by both of his sons, allowing the necessary time to develop business in the Legacy Network.

Mike’s specialty is process control and efficiencies that create a positive culture and self-motivating work environment. Mike’s start in the assembly industry was an essential introduction in cultivating the importance of expediting and streamlining the process to complete work tasks. In the assembly industry, this was paramount in creating a level of efficiency that is far beyond the norm of profitability in service work. Mike has implemented and has had successful outcomes in his companies, and he has restructured with unanimous success. Mike currently plays a pivotal role in training industry professionals – educating home inspectors, realtors, property managers, HVAC specialists, and termite companies. He remains a leading voice in Virginia’s service industry, providing expert guidance, innovative solutions, and sustainable growth strategies for small businesses

Jeff Thompson lives in Virginia Beach and is helping lead Legacy’s efforts to grow small businesses in his community. As a seasoned entrepreneur who successfully built and sold a healthcare business to private equity, Jeff brings first-hand experience in creating scalable operations and navigating strategic exits.

A licensed optometrist and business leader, Jeff co-founded and scaled a highly profitable eye care practice by blending clinical expertise with operational discipline. His leadership focused on efficiency, patient-centric service, and the thoughtful use of technology—allowing the practice to thrive and stand out in a competitive market. Strategic growth, streamlined systems, and a strong team culture positioned the business for long-term success and ultimately, a private equity acquisition.

Now, Jeff is using his experience to support and advise other small business owners—especially those ready to professionalize, grow, and preserve what they’ve built.

Jeff earned his Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from the University of Prince Edward Island and graduated with honors from the University of Waterloo School of Optometry and Vision Science in 2013.