Thousands of veterans transition from military service into the civilian workforce every year. Their journey is full of opportunity and challenge. Institutions like the Institute for Veterans and Military Families (IVMF) at Syracuse University have made significant strides in supporting this transition through comprehensive programs and partnerships.
However, as we commend these efforts, we also recognize a critical unaddressed gap—the long-term sustainment of veterans in their new civilian roles. Therefore, I’d like to explore the often-overlooked aspect of veteran transition: the need for a sustainable environment that supports veterans well beyond their initial employment. I’ll also dive into research on veteran turnover and the principles behind creating a Vet READY workplace, and introduce Max Fab Consulting’s pioneering approach to ensuring veterans not only land jobs but thrive in them.
Understanding the Veteran Turnover Problem
Veteran turnover is a significant issue in the civilian workforce. Research shows that up to 50% of veterans leave their first post-military job within the first year, which rises to 80% by the end of the second year. This high turnover rate is not merely a statistic but a deeper systemic issue within workplace environments that fail to meet veterans’ unique needs.
The challenges contributing to veteran turnover include:
Cultural Misalignment: Many veterans struggle with a work culture vastly different from the structured, mission-driven ethos of the military.
Lack of Support: More support mechanisms are needed to help veterans navigate the complexities of civilian professional landscapes.
Recognition and Utilization of Skills: Employers often need to improve veterans’ skills and leadership qualities, which can lead to job dissatisfaction.
The Role of Institutional Support
While organizations like IVMF provide invaluable services to transitioning veterans, their scope is often limited to initial employment phases, such as skills training and job placement. The IVMF’s mission statement emphasizes collaboration with various stakeholders to provide quality programming. However, the end goal must extend beyond placement; it should ensure veterans can sustain and grow within their new roles.
The concept of sustainment—keeping veterans engaged and employed long- term—requires a shift from viewing employment as a singular event to understanding it as part of a continuum of care. This shift demands that institutions with access to substantial resources and grant funding invest in longitudinal studies and programs that address the ongoing needs of veterans in the workforce.
Max Fab Consulting: Bridging the Gap
Max Fab Consulting has recognized the need for a more holistic approach to veteran employment and created Vet READY program. Our work is not about temporary solutions but about creating lasting change. Here’s how we address the sustainment challenge:
- Cultural Competency Training for Employers: We provide training to help businesses understand military culture and the valuable skills veterans bring. This training aims to bridge the cultural gap between military and civilian workplaces.
- Building Vet READY Environments: Beyond acknowledging veterans’ service, there is a need to create workplaces that are genuinely veteran- friendly—environments where veterans feel understood, valued, and supported. Max Fab Consulting focuses on developing these Vet READY standards.
- Sustainable Employment Models: We advocate for employment models incorporating flexibility, support networks, and career development opportunities tailored to veterans’ unique experiences and skills.
The Call to Action
To truly honor the service of our veterans, we must ensure that their transition into the civilian workforce is not just about finding a job but about thriving in a sustaining environment. Institutions, corporations, and foundations must invest in creating workplaces where veterans can stay and succeed.
Max Fab Consulting is at the forefront of this initiative, but collaboration is critical. We invite stakeholders at all levels to join us in this mission. Let’s not stop at “thank you for your service.” Let’s ensure that every veteran has a place where they can continue to grow and feel valued long after their military service ends.
Creating sustainable veteran employment is about more than just filling jobs. It’s about understanding and integrating the experiences, skills, and needs of those who have served our country into the very fabric of our workplaces. As we move forward, let’s focus on building environments that attract veterans and are equipped to retain and nurture them. This is the mission of Max Fab Consulting, and it should be the goal of any organization genuinely committed to veteran integration and success.
Together, we can close the gap in veteran employment sustainability and truly move the needle towards creating Vet READY workplaces. Connect with me today to get Vet READY.