U.S. Military Veterans Returning to the Civilian Workforce: A Powerful Story

Since 9/11, almost three million Americans have been involved with the military. By 2016, an estimated two million-plus will have left the military and returned to civilian life. The U.S. statistics on the return to civilian life and the civilian workforce tell a powerful story . . . as in June 2011: veteran unemployment was over 13.3%, four per cent higher than the national average. Unemployment is even higher among black veterans at 18.2%, while for ex-service personnel aged 18 to 30 years old, the figures are at 28.5%.

This is why the good work of CSC, a company that has been actively hiring former military personnel for more than five years and currently employs approximately 8,000 U.S. military veterans, has been recognised by G.I. Jobs magazine as one of America's "Top 100 Military Friendly Employers." The ninth annual G.I. Jobs list is published in the magazine's December 2012 issue, and honours companies that are doing their most to recruit America's veterans. The top 100 businesses selected for the "Military Friendly Employers" designation represent the most prominent two percent of all corporate recruiting programs aimed at military veterans.

CSC has won this award for the fourth consecutive year. The company believes veterans possess a unique set of skills and attributes including leadership experience, a disciplined work approach, and institutional knowledge of its federal government clients. CSC is a global leader in providing technology-enabled business solutions and services. Plus, it has a widely recognised Military Recruitment Program that provides transitional support to active and former military personnel and wounded service men and women seeking new careers. The company also has a military spouse program that it started in 2003, which provides one-on-one assistance and career portability for military spouses. CSC has implemented programs that promote a military-friendly workplace that seeks to support active service members and help veterans and their families find new careers.

The skills these ex-service people gain through their military life make them well suited to a variety of civilian jobs. Eric Shinseki, retired U.S. Army four-star general and secretary of Veterans Affairs, believes they have valuable workplace qualities from quick, clear thinking to proven leadership, experienced team-builders to natural team-players, and a work ethic that demonstrates an unwavering commitment to excellence.

Dave Zolet, Executive VP and General Manager, CSC's North America Public Sector, says, "The unique skills, diversity and leadership that military veterans provide to us are invaluable, and we continue to grow stronger as a company thanks to their integrity and perseverance. We are proud to be recognized for our strong commitment to establishing a military-friendly environment where recruiting and hiring military veterans and their spouses is a priority." Veterans clearly face many challenges in transitioning back to civilian life and finding employment. Companies like CSC, the U.S. Government, and others are working to meet the needs of these heroes through a variety of resources, programs, and services.

Photo Credit: Portrait. AgileZorb™