Jacob Martinez is the CEO and President of MTI, a company that has seen remarkable growth under his leadership. After transitioning from a military career as an Army sergeant, Jacob applied the discipline and structure he learned in service to expand MTI from a small team of 8 employees to over 200. He took over leadership in 2007, navigating challenges such as the 2008 financial crisis, during which the company focused on survival before achieving substantial growth from 2011 onwards.
Leadership
Under his guidance, MTI has been recognized for its innovation and workplace culture, earning a spot among the fastest-growing companies in the U.S. on the Inc. 5000 list. Jacob’s leadership style emphasizes adaptability, personal development, and fostering a learning culture through initiatives like company book clubs and training programs. His approach underscores his belief in constant evolution and empowerment for long-term success.
Military Life
Raised in a small town with a family tradition of service, he knew from a young age that joining the military was more than a career—it was a calling. After enlisting in the U.S. Army, he quickly stood out during basic training, demonstrating not only physical aptitude but also a keen ability to lead. His instructors noted his ability to remain calm under pressure, a trait that would define his military career.
His first assignment was at Fort Moore (formerly Fort Benning), Georgia, where he completed additional training as part of an infantry unit. At Fort Benning, he formed bonds with his fellow soldiers, learning the value of teamwork and mutual reliance. From sunrise drills to late-night strategy sessions, he embraced the demanding schedule, knowing it prepared him for challenges to come. His leadership potential became evident, and he was promoted to squad leader, responsible for the well-being and effectiveness of a small team.
Deployment orders came swiftly, sending him to his first tour in Afghanistan. Stationed in Kandahar, he was thrust into a high-stakes environment. The terrain was harsh, and the mission complex—providing security for local villages while assisting in infrastructure development. Days often began before dawn with reconnaissance missions or patrols through unpredictable areas. Despite the risks, he found purpose in the work, particularly in engaging with local communities. He remembered one mission where his team helped restore a damaged school, leaving a lasting impact on both the children and the soldiers involved.
His ability to lead in high-pressure situations earned him respect among his peers and commanding officers. This recognition led to his reassignment to Bagram Airfield, where he took on more strategic roles. Here, he coordinated logistics for missions across the region, ensuring that troops had the resources needed to complete their objectives. He was often the last to leave the operations room, reviewing plans and double-checking contingencies. His meticulous approach helped reduce operational risks and strengthened morale among his unit.
During his second tour, he was stationed in Helmand Province, one of the most challenging regions due to frequent insurgent activity. The experiences here tested his resolve like never before. On one mission, his unit faced an ambush while conducting a routine patrol. Amid chaos, he maintained his composure, directing his team to safety while orchestrating a counteroffensive. This moment of quick thinking not only saved lives but solidified his reputation as a dependable leader.
Between deployments, he spent time at Fort Hood, Texas, where he mentored younger soldiers and shared lessons from his experiences abroad. These moments of mentorship were among the most rewarding aspects of his service. He believed in empowering others to grow, understanding that the strength of a unit relied on the confidence and capability of each member.
When his military service concluded after four and a half years, he left with a deep sense of fulfillment and a lifetime of lessons. The discipline, strategic thinking, and leadership honed during his time in the Army became the foundation for his civilian career. Whether navigating the rugged landscapes of Afghanistan or the structured environments of domestic bases, every moment shaped the leader he would become. The military had been more than a chapter in his life—it was the forge that defined his character.
ByDzyne Convention
Summary Transcript
Jared and Jacob Martinez, founder and CEO of Market Traders Institute (MTI), express excitement about meeting in Quito, Ecuador, on June 11th and 12th. Jared looks forward to sharing MTI’s techniques, while Jacob is eager to present MTI’s vision and design. They conclude the message in Spanish, anticipating the opportunity to meet their audience in person. The message reflects their enthusiasm for connecting and sharing their expertise.
Charity
After his military service and during his time as CEO of MTI, he became deeply involved in charitable work, using his position to support initiatives that aligned with his values of empowerment and education. Recognizing the transformative power of financial literacy, he partnered with organizations that provided educational resources to underserved communities. One of his key initiatives was a scholarship program designed to provide training for aspiring traders who lacked the financial means to access educational opportunities at MTI.
In addition to supporting financial education, Jacob contributed to veteran-focused charities, offering mentorship programs for transitioning soldiers. His experience in the military gave him a unique understanding of the challenges veterans face, and he worked closely with organizations that helped them reintegrate into civilian life. Jacob often spoke at events and workshops, sharing his story to inspire others to overcome adversity and pursue their goals, regardless of their background.
His philanthropic efforts extended internationally as well. Jacob established a program to provide business and financial education to young entrepreneurs in developing nations, focusing on creating sustainable economic growth. This initiative allowed him to combine his professional expertise with his passion for community development, making a significant impact on global financial literacy.
Through his charity work, Jacob became not only a successful entrepreneur but also a mentor and advocate for education and empowerment. His legacy continues to inspire others to give back and invest in the future of those who need it most.
The Future
Jacob’s future is bright, fueled by his experience and leadership at Market Traders Institute (MTI). As the CEO, he continues to drive the company’s success with a focus on education and innovative financial strategies. His vision for MTI’s expansion reaches beyond traditional markets, introducing cutting-edge techniques and insights for traders worldwide. He is poised to lead MTI into global prominence, influencing not only financial markets but also helping to empower individual traders to achieve long-term financial independence.
In the coming years, he plans to expand MTI’s educational platforms, developing a comprehensive curriculum that integrates financial literacy, cutting-edge technology, and mentorship programs to help aspiring traders succeed. His background in both military discipline and entrepreneurial ventures fuels a strong work ethic and commitment to personal development, which he instills in his team.
He is also committed to fostering a strong sense of community within MTI, cultivating a network of supportive traders who exchange ideas and strategies. As the company grows, he envisions MTI becoming a global hub for financial education and innovation, continually evolving to stay ahead of market trends and ensure the success of those who trust in the institute’s mission.
Beyond his professional life, Jacob remains dedicated to personal growth and giving back, using his influence to inspire others and encourage positive change in the financial world. His story is one of resilience, transformation, and the ongoing pursuit of excellence.