The United States is home to a valuable talent pool in its military community, comprising both veterans and military spouses. Despite their tremendous potential, this community faces significant challenges in the civilian job market. As of May 2024, an estimated 12.2 million military spouses and veterans lived in the United States. However, military spouse unemployment is persistently high, hovering at 21%1 – five times the national average – for more than a decade.
The problem isn’t getting any easier, even with federal programs set up to encourage military spouse hiring. FedWeek reported that despite initiatives to encourage federal agencies to hire spouses of military personnel, many job-seekers find the federal hiring process frustrating. Often, they report giving up on applying for federal jobs, according to a December 2024 study from the White House’s National Science and Technology Council.
As an employer of military veterans and spouses in Fort Worth and nationwide, First Command respects and honors the wealth of skills they bring to the workplace. Nearly 70% of our clients are active duty or retired/separated military. With three out of four First Command Advisors representing veterans or military spouses, we serve those who serve our country in their pursuit of financial security.
Honed through military experience, military professionals are skilled, resilient and adaptable. We recognize the extraordinary talents of those who have served our country – either in uniform or as supportive spouses. We benefit from this experience. It enhances our workforce and helps honor their service and sacrifice in a meaningful way.
The ongoing issue of unemployment or under-employment in this community carries a hefty price tag. The estimated annual social cost ranges between $710 million and $1.07 billion, a topic First Command President and CEO Mark Steffe covered in a piece for Federal News Network. In addition, they face increased dependence on social services, mental health issues, workforce underutilization, and various health concerns.
First Command partnered with Hiring Our Heroes to look at the hidden financial costs of military spouse unemployment. We found while dual incomes are critical, roles matching experience and education for our nation’s military spouses remain elusive. This impacts financial security, especially in planning and preparing for retirement. Additionally, the report emphasized that access to employer-sponsored retirement benefits and a financial advisor is vital for improving retirement expectations.
Through my role in Human Resources and Talent Development at First Command, I have the pleasure of working alongside many veterans and military spouses. This has taught me important lessons I hope others can benefit from as well. It starts with recognizing the valuable skills military members and their spouses bring. Coupled with implementing supportive workplace strategies and fostering an inclusive culture, employers can create stronger, more effective teams.
Valuable Skills of Military Members and Spouses
● Perseverance: Disciplined, accountable and take responsibility. They do not give up when setbacks occur and work to overcome challenges.
● Adaptability: Quick to assess challenges, pivot and progress.
● Teamwork: Appreciate the power of a team and know what it means to lead, follow, motivate others and share learning.
● Purposeful commitment: Because of the nature of military life, including frequent relocations because of a permanent change of station, military spouses are organized, results-oriented, and adept at managing responsibilities.
Supportive Strategies for Employers
● Flexible Work: Offer remote, hybrid or flexible hours.
● Career Development: Invest in training programs, mentorship initiatives and internal mobility options to help military employees advance their careers.
● Inclusive Culture: Foster a sense of belonging and inclusivity by celebrating military service and providing resources to address the challenges they may face.
● Competitive Benefits: Provide benefits including tuition reimbursement and financial planning that are specifically tailored to the needs of military families.
● Military Spouse Advisory Council: Create networks for connection and advocacy.
● Support Military Obligations: Provide paid leave for training/deployments and accommodate relocations.
When hiring military candidates, employers should take into account the broader context of their experiences. Recognize that frequent relocations reflect the military lifestyle, not instability. Similarly, gaps in employment often result from service-related obligations.
We appreciate that no one understands the lifestyle better than those who have lived it. This is an important group of talented individuals who are ready to contribute to the workplace. At First Command, we value veterans and military spouses for their unique insights and skills, helping them build meaningful careers beyond service. We encourage other organizations to embrace the opportunity to benefit from their talents as well.
Shawna Dover is the Senior Vice President of Human Resources and Talent Development at First Command