How Veterans Are Strengthening America’s Workforce

When veterans transition to civilian life, they often search for jobs in civilian fields where they can put unique experiences and skills to work. However, finding meaningful employment after their service is often easier said than done.  

According to the latest Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) Warrior Survey*, nearly 6 in 10 warriors face underemployment. Furthermore, 67% of warriors reported experiencing financial strain, a rising trend since 2021.  

The data highlights an important issue: Many former service members have trouble securing steady jobs and experience financial hardship, which impacts their mental health and overall well-being. 

Businesses should consider initiatives to support veteran workforce development, hire veterans, and empower their transitions back to civilian life. 

However, bridging the gap between military service and civilian employment begins with understanding the needs and distinct skills of veterans as they navigate an unfamiliar job market. 

Recognizing Veterans’ Strength in the Civilian Workforce  

After being out of work for a while, finding employment and standing out from other applicants can be difficult. This can be even more challenging for veterans. That’s why employers must recognize those challenges and respond with support. 

Many warriors don't know how to leverage their military experience. The WWP Warrior Survey found that 37% of unemployed warriors had difficulty translating military skills to the civilian workforce. 

Veterans have critical skills that are transferable to civilian roles. They are proven leaders and collaborative workers with strong integrity and ethics, agility, adaptability, and risk analysis. Plus, employment gives them purpose and helps build their confidence and financial stability. By recognizing traits like these within veteran candidates, employers are able to empower veterans and help them leverage their skills in a way that translates in a civilian role.

"Veterans served and sacrificed for our country and bring valuable perspectives to the civilian workforce," said Kevin Rasch, Warriors to Work^® regional director at WWP. "Employers willing to invest in veteran talent aren't just helping individuals — they're fueling innovation, reliability, and leadership within their organizations, too. The discipline, strategic thinking, and growth mindset that veterans developed in uniform helps organizations thrive." 

When employers take action to hire a veteran, they gain a mission-driven professional with exceptional training, leadership, and resilience. Veterans bring proven dedication, sharp problem-solving skills, and a results-driven mindset shaped by real-world experience. These skills, paired with a strong work ethic and commitment to excellence, make them an asset to any workplace. 

How Businesses Can Help 

Veterans have already answered the call to serve — now it's time for employers to do the same. Businesses can play a powerful role in supporting veterans by considering the following: 

• Offering fair pay and creating clear pathways for growth ensures that those who served continue to thrive in civilian careers. 
• Developing and facilitating productive onboarding processes and practices to help increase retention among veteran employees. The military community is a resilient and resourceful group. Many with injuries come to the workforce with an understanding of what they need for success. Others may need some time to figure out what works for them and what doesn't. Time, patience, and education will go a long way — and warriors deserve it. 
• Reducing stigma around service-related injuries and veteran employment by recognizing that disability does not mean workforce inability. For example, learning about and understanding some of the more frequently recorded combat-related injuries, like PTSD or sensory impairments, and appropriately accommodating for those, can go a long way in decreasing stigma and misconceptions. 
• Identifying optimal roles for veterans. Employers can match veterans' unique qualifications to their organization's goals. Not only does this promote an inclusive workforce, but it strengthens it, too. 

CSX, a leading rail transportation company, is an advocate for veteran employment. The company partners with WWP to create and foster workforce development opportunities for those who served. 

This partnership provides opportunities for veterans to enhance their skill development and find new ways to translate their military skills to the civilian workforce, creating more financial stability for veterans and their families. For example, WWP and CSX work together to provide veterans with training to become certified drone pilots. CSX is also a partner in funding AI technologies to help warriors translate their military skills into civilian language. 

Warriors in the Workforce  

We must never forget the cost of freedom. Veterans served and sacrificed for their country and are ready to continue their service in the civilian workforce. They have unique and proven abilities and a strong sense of purpose. Their contributions enhance teams, cultures, and outcomes across every sector, especially when companies invest in their development. 

Let's not waste their potential. Let's serve those who served us and ensure no warrior is left behind. 

Resources like WWP's Warriors to Work^® program support veterans and employers. Warriors learn the skills necessary to find meaningful employment that makes the most of their experience and talents, and employers can learn about the success that hiring and retaining veterans will bring.  

*Warrior Survey, Wave 3 (conducted May 25-Aug.1, 2023)

Contact: Kaitlyn McCue, Public Relations, kmccue@woundedwarriorproject.org, 904.870.1964

About Wounded Warrior Project 

Wounded Warrior Project is our nation’s leading veteran services organization, focused on the total well-being of post-9/11 wounded, ill, or injured veterans. Our programs, advocacy, and awareness efforts help warriors thrive, provide essential lifelines to families and caregivers, and prevent veteran suicides. Learn more about Wounded Warrior Project.