Combat Paddle
Jeff Shuford Signature Beta ProjectBeta
Local--:--:--
Zulu------Z---
Coach mode
Car drive mode
Load your vehicle, pick its drive mode, then start GPS or the demo.
Speedstandby
8880
MPH
Engine speed (est.)--
8,888----
RPM
--Upshift at
--Floor
ShifterNo vehicle
-
Manual gear
STANDBYLoad a vehicle with fixed gears to start coaching.
G-forceGPS
0.00Accel / brake g
0.00Lateral g
0.00Peak g
--Sensor total g
Elevation
88,888----
FT
-88.8--.-
Grade %
Mission0:00
0.0Miles
0Max speed
--Smoothness
--Eco score
0Shift calls
0Hard events
Space readoutExperimental
Time in gear
Event log (Zulu)
No events yet.

Your vehicle

Training simulator

Practice paddle timing without moving. Pick a scenario, then tap the paddles to keep the engine in the green band. Uses your loaded vehicle (or a 2024 Lexus NX 250 if none).

On-ramp merge--

--In band
--Correct calls
--Grade

Paddle Academy

1. What the paddles do

The right paddle (+) shifts up one gear; the left paddle (−) shifts down one. In D, a tap usually gives temporary manual control and the car returns to automatic after a few seconds. Moving the lever to M or S keeps you in manual until you move it back.

2. Eco, Normal, Sport and Sport+

Drive modes change throttle response and shift points, and on some cars steering weight and suspension. Eco shifts early to save fuel. Normal balances. Sport holds gears longer and sharpens throttle. Sport+ (only on some trims) holds gears longest and may loosen stability control. Combat Paddle only shows modes your car offers.

3. When paddles actually help

Long downhill grades (one or two downshifts let the engine hold speed and save the brakes), steep climbs (a lower gear keeps power), passing (one downshift before you pull out), towing, curvy roads, and some slippery starts (check your manual).

4. What the car protects you from

Modern automatics refuse a downshift that would over-rev the engine, and many upshift on their own at redline. Some do not, so watch the shift lights. Paddles do not add a clutch and, used normally, do not harm the transmission.

5. Reading the coach

Green UPSHIFT means engine speed passed the target for your mode. DOWNSHIFT means the engine is lugging below the floor. ENGINE BRAKE means a downhill where a lower gear helps. HOLD means you are in the right gear. Targets change with Eco, Normal, Sport and Sport+.

6. Passenger etiquette

Combat Paddle is a learning tool for passengers. In a rideshare or with family, never pressure a driver to shift or speed. If you are driving, keep your eyes on the road; the optional voice callouts let you learn without looking.

Qualification quiz

Debrief

Drive, demo or run a scenario to build a debrief.
Passenger learning tool. Combat Paddle teaches when paddle shifters and drive modes help. It does not read your car's computer: speed, grade and g-force come from GPS and your phone's sensors, and gear, engine speed and shift calls are estimates from gear ratios, tire size and acceleration. Drivers: never look at or tap your phone while moving; use voice callouts if you want audio cues, and always follow your owner's manual, posted limits and road conditions. Drive-mode and paddle availability are typical values and vary by trim. Space Mode is experimental and educational. Location and motion data never leave this device.Jeff Shuford Signature Beta Project · Investinveteransweek.com
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Person sitting and holding a framed proclamation for Invest in Veterans Week, March 1-7, 2022, issued by the Douglas County Board of Commissioners.
Person holding a framed proclamation from the State of Montana celebrating Veterans Week, signed by Governor Greg Gianforte.
A man holding a framed proclamation celebrating Douglas County Veterans Week, March 1-7, 2022, with signatures and an official seal visible on the document.

Awards & Recognitions

  • Building on the momentum of Montana’s Invest in Veterans Week proclamations in both 2023 and 2024, Congressman Matt Rosendale from Montana’s second district took to the House Floor to honor America’s veterans and highlight the significant initiative led by Governor Gianforte. With veterans constituting nearly 9% of Montana’s population, the state proudly stands fifth in the nation for the highest veteran per capita ratio, home to over 78,000 veterans. Rosendale emphasized the critical role veteran-owned businesses play in bolstering the economy, providing jobs for over 5 million people, and generating upwards of $1 trillion annually. From agricultural ventures to cutting-edge tech firms, these businesses stand as a testament to veterans’ unwavering commitment to their communities post-service. Rosendale’s address underscored a powerful message: support for veterans extends beyond a single week to a continuous, year-long mission that leverages the unique skills and experiences of veterans for societal benefit. Read @ Congressional Record

  • Presented by Acquisition International (AI) this award celebrates the intersection of veteran support and cutting-edge innovation, with recent recipients focusing heavily on technology, like AI, to drive success for veterans in business and healthcare. 

  • In the year 2017, a distinguished honor, the BizTech Award, was conferred upon Tech From Vets, a subsidiary of National Invest In Veterans Week®. This prestigious award, presented by Comcast Business, served as a testament to their exemplary contributions in cultivating technological innovations conceived by veterans. Tech From Vets, the visionary enterprise of Jeff Shuford, an esteemed Army veteran and incumbent CEO, was founded with the noble objective of facilitating a smooth transition for veterans post their service tenure. In a recent strategic move, they expanded their horizons into the realm of mobile technology. Their significant involvement in the creation of the Vets 22 app, a vital tool for veterans contending with suicidal ideation, underscores their commitment to this cause. Read @ Jacksonville Business Journal

  • The Ritz Herald, in its quest to highlight impactful initiatives, recognized National Invest In Veterans Week® as the Best Social Impact Initiative of 2021. This distinguished accolade underscores their impactful and meaningful work in society. Their initiatives have not only made a significant difference in the lives of veterans but have also contributed to societal well-being at large. Their work is a shining example of how organizations can drive social change and make a lasting impact. This recognition by The Ritz Herald further validates their efforts and motivates them to continue their commendable work. Read @ Ritz Herald

  • Tech From Vets is a technology brand owned and operated by United States military veterans and their spouses. Since 2016, they have specialized in developing award-winning innovations for businesses of all sizes. Read the Honor

  • In a significant event, National Invest In Veterans Week® was conferred with the 2021 Veterans in Business Award. This prestigious honor, granted by The Hudson Weekly, serves as a testament to their remarkable contributions to the veteran community. Their relentless efforts and dedication towards improving the lives of veterans have not gone unnoticed. This award is a recognition of their commitment to fostering a supportive environment for veterans, acknowledging their invaluable service to the nation. Read @ Hudson Weekly

  • Tech From Vets, is a premier technology brand owned and operated by United States military veterans and their spouses. Since its establishment in 2016, the company has been recognized as one of the leading veteran-owned tech startups. Specializing in developing award-winning innovations, Tech From Vets has received accolades for its contributions to the business community. In 2016, the company was named the Best Veteran Owned Tech Startup, showcasing its impact and excellence in the technology sector. Read @ HuffPost

#NIVW Impact

🇺🇸 2.5 Million
Veteran-Owned Businesses Served

🌐 180K+
NIVW Supporters Worldwide

🛡️ 40
Markets Reached

💼 $1 Trillion+ in Annual Sales
Veteran-Owned Businesses Fuel Growth

#TakeAction

  • National Invest In Veterans Week® has gained significant traction across the United States, with various states and officials recognizing its importance through proclamations and legislative actions. In South Carolina, the General Assembly passed H 3825, officially commemorating National Invest In Veterans Week in early 2021. This legislative action demonstrates the state's commitment to supporting veteran entrepreneurs and recognizing their contributions to the economy. Montana Governor Greg Gianforte issued a proclamation for Invest in Veterans Week twice (2023, 2024), highlighting the state's high veteran population and efforts to support veteran-owned businesses. Montana has implemented tax exemptions and other initiatives to celebrate and invest in veterans. Congressman Matt Rosendale addressed the House Floor, emphasizing the economic impact of veteran-owned businesses and calling for continued support beyond the week-long celebration. He highlighted that veteran-owned firms employ over 5 million people and generate an annual payroll of $195 billion.

  • Oregon in 2022, the Douglas County Commissioners issued a proclamation in support of National Invest In Veterans Week®. During their weekly business meeting, Commissioners Tim Freeman, Chris Boice, and Tom Kress emphasized the importance of recognizing and supporting veteran entrepreneurs within the county. The proclamation highlights the significant contributions of veterans to the local economy and community, urging citizens to honor and invest in veteran-owned businesses. Commissioner Tim Freeman read the proclamation and presented 17 Douglas County businesses and 5 Douglas County citizens with ‘Invest in Veteran’s Week’ certificates to honor their service to other veterans, their service to our country, for hiring veterans, and for their veteran-owned businesses. The accolades were divided into three groups: veterans who invest in veterans, businesses that hire veterans, and veteran-owned businesses.

  • "It's always a good time to support our veteran-owned businesses. This Invest in Veterans Week, I encourage folks to support veterans who served our country and now lead in business, like Willie Blazer of Willie's Distillery in Ennis."

    Governor Greg Gianforte

  • "According to the Small Business Administration, there is about one veteran-owned business for every ten veterans, & veteran-owned businesses employ 5.8 million individuals. #NationalInvestInVeteransWeek is about empowering the public to invest in these businesses."

    Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel

  • "The first week of March we observe National Invest in Veterans week. This week, we take the time to invest in the Veteran population by doing things such as supporting veteran owned businesses, educational development, and mental health empowerment."

    Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer

  • “This week, we're taking a moment to honor our #FL03 veteran entrepreneurs for National Invest in Vererans Week! Our veterans make significant contributions and sacrifices in service to our nation - who have selflessly served our country and now lead in business."

    Congresswoman Kat Cammack

  • “March 1 through March 7 is National Invest in Veterans Week. During the week we honor aspiring and established veteran business owners and their contributions to the economy.“

    Pennsylvania State Representative Sara Innamorato

  • “As we honor veterans through National Invest in Veterans Week, it is important that scholars as well as the general public reconsider their understanding of this population.“

    Journal of Veterans Studies Founder/Editor

    Dr. Mariana Grohowski

  • "This week, March 1-7 is National Invest in Veterans Week! This week stands as a time to honor and support veteran business owners and their contributions to our state's economy."

    Senator Rita Sanders

  • "This week, we honor and invest in our veterans, who have sacrificed so much to protect our freedoms and way of life. Let's show our appreciation by providing them with the support and resources they need to thrive in civilian life."

    Montana Secretary of State Christi Jacobsen

  • "March 1-7, 2024, is a time to recognize the contributions of military veterans who go on to start businesses. According to the SBA’s Office of Advocacy, there are more than 1.9 million veteran-owned businesses in the U.S. Veterans who want to start or expand a business should check out the SBA’s Office of Veterans Business Development to see the free resources that are available to veterans, service members, and their spouses. #IdeaoftheDay"

    Barbara Weltman

  • “Veterans are among America’s most industrious workers and successful entrepreneurs. Please join me in always supporting veteran business leaders like Shield Arms owner Seth Berglee, but especially during National Invest in Veterans Week.“

    Representative Matt Rosendale

  • "It is Invest in Veterans Week through March 7th. Support the men and women who have given so much to this great country and invest in their hard work!"

    Montana State Representative Marta Bertoglio

  • "This week is National Invest in Veterans Week, and I want to take this opportunity to thank all veterans for their service to our country."

    United States Representative Dan Newhouse

  • "Invest in Veterans Week honors the aspiring and established businesses owned by veterans of our armed forces. This week is a great time to support your favorite veteran-owned business!"

    Illinois State Representative Chris Miller

  • "This week is National Invest in Veterans Week. Serving our nation is an investment that men and women in uniform make not only for their own future but for the well-being of our country as well. They willingly leave behind their loved ones and livelihoods to fight and protect our nation on the battlefield. Just as these veterans invest in us and our safety, we must likewise invest in the veterans who have sacrificed so much for the greater good."

    Congressman Brian Mast

#NIVW Honor Roll🧭

  • A man in a dark suit and striped tie stands behind a podium with the seal of the Superior Court of California, pointing his finger.

    Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer

    2024 Social Impact Action of the Week Award

  • A middle-aged man with a bald head and wearing a suit, blue shirt, and striped tie, speaking at a podium with multiple flags in the background.

    Montana Governor Greg Gianforte

    2024 Champion of Veterans Entrepreneurship Award

  • A woman in a dark suit and blue shirt, seated in an office with American flags and wooden bookshelves in the background, smiling at the camera.

    Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel

    2023 Veteran Advocate of the Week Award

  • Group photo of police officers and officials inside a courtroom with a seal that reads Banks County, established 1858, on the wall behind them. The officers are in uniform, and some are smiling while one man in a suit holds a plaque or award.

    Banks County Sheriff's Office

    2023 Trailblazer in Veteran Hiring Award

  • Portrait of a male football player in a purple Vikings jersey with long dreadlocks and a black headband.

    Aaron Jones, Minnesota Vikings

    2024 Jeff Shuford Empowerment Through Advocacy Award

  • Two women in U.S. Army dress uniforms standing in front of a U.S. Army banner with a star emblem and the words "U.S. Army" and "For Life."

    Soldier For Life

    2024 Veteran Advocate of the Week Award