Job hunting is hard. Many families struggle with the transition out of the military and into the civilian world. It’s natural – it is a big change! Thankfully, there are a world of employment resources available to both the veteran and the spouse. A recent Facebook conversation encouraged me to pull together some resources available to spouses of veterans who are not disabled or retired. I hope some of these will be helpful to you!
Many military spouse organization embrace the “once a milspouse, always a milspouse” philosophy. While spouses of veterans who are not retired or injured can not access certain Department of Defense (DoD) program, there are still many resources available.
VetNet
VetNet, a program of the Institute for Veterans and Military Families (IVMF), is a channel of free, online trainings on career-related topics including job searching techniques, personal branding, and more.
Onward to Opportunity
Onward to Opportunity – Veterans Career Transition Program is also a program of IVMF, offers free career training, including recognized industry standard certifications, along with career support. The programs can be accessed online or at one of the 12 physical locations across the country.
CareerSpark
Part of the Hiring Our Heroes program, CareerSpark is an online, interactive resume builder that help military spouses create skills-based resumes that reflect their paid and volunteer work experience. It is available to spouses of veterans.
In-Dependent
In-Dependent offers resources to help spouses manage their overall well-being. These include a yearly virtual conference and a five week program to help you identify your strengths, talents, and interests.
AmVets Career Centers
AmVETS Career Centers offer free career training and employment assistance to veterans and service members from the active, guard and reserve, and their spouses. In addition to 12 physical locations, services are available virtually.
SpouseWorks
If your service member has been separated less than 180 days, you are eligible to use the SpouseWorks program managed by Military OneSource.
Veterati
Veterati is a mentorship program, providing networking, encouragement, and feedback on the job hunt. It is all online, so you don’t have to worry about
Ideally, you’re not waiting until after transition to start your transition plan. If your military member is currently serving, please be sure to take advantage of the many employment resources available to continue your education and develop your career. Not all programs continue to be available after separation from the military, so it pays to get your ducks in a row early!
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