wbjournal.com | November 17, 2025 | Worcester Business Journal 17
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in service
Through our partnership with the Veteran
Benefits Banking Program (VBBP), we're
honored to offer exclusive benefits to military
members, veterans, and their families.
Learn more at:
centralfcu.com/resources/veterans-benefits
(800) 527-1017 | centralfcu.com
Auburn • Milford • Northborough
Shrewsbury • Westborough • Worcester
Federally insured by NCUA. Equal Housing Lender.
Kitchens by
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VETERANS IN BUSINESS F O C U S
Jonathan Daige
Vice president of business development
Central Mass Crane and Rigging, in the Rochdale
section of Leicester
Residence: Cherry Valley, in Leicester
Military branch: U.S. Army Reserve
Served: 8 years
Rank at discharge: E-5 sergeant
Jonathan Daige joined the U.S. Army Reserve immediately following the
attacks on Sept. 11, 2001. He wanted to be part of something bigger than himself
and serve his country. He served two combat deployments to Iraq, where he
learned the value of discipline, teamwork, and staying calm under pressure. ere
are a lot of different types of personalities in the military with one common goal
in mind. Once you can put aside differences and work together, the task can be
achieved.
e hardest part about transitioning to civilian life was missing the sense of be-
longing that is there every day in the military, especially in a war zone. Everyone
has a task to complete. Finding purpose is key.
Aer his military service, he transitioned into law enforcement, dedicating
more than 18 years to protecting his community, including eight years on the
Worcester Police Department SWAT team as a sniper. In 2012, he faced testicular
cancer. What began as one diagnosis turned into multiple recurrences, surgeries,
and rounds of chemotherapy. He was cancer-free for seven years, then was diag-
nosed with CML leukemia, which he is still battling today.
As vice president of business development at Central Mass Crane and Rig-
ging, Daige has played a critical role in expanding the company's reach. He is the
founder of in Blue Ride, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting veterans, first re-
sponders, and their families who are battling cancer. rough fundraising events,
community outreach, and direct assistance, in Blue Ride provides encourage-
ment, financial relief, and a reminder that no warrior fights alone.
