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Daymond John’s Advice To The Founder Of Mutt’s Sauce And Other Veteran Entrepreneurs

Career

After Charlynda Scales’ grandfather, Charlie Ferrell, Jr., passed away in 2005, she honored the Vietnam and Korean War veteran’s memory by serving in the U.S. Air Force. Eight years later, she’d honor him again by launching Mutt’s Sauce, LLC.

She started the business in 2013 when her mother handed her the secret family recipe that had been locked in a safe for years. Ferrell, whose military nickname was “The Mutt” for “his ability to blend in with all types of cultures and make friends with anyone,” created the sauce in 1956 when he was deployed to Japan. While there, he and his family hosted many dinners for troops stationed in East Asia. According to family lore, his sweet and peppery tomato-based sauce was the highlight of parties, bringing military families of all backgrounds together during the 1950s. “It was never a business, he would just make it for friends and family,” said Scales. “He’d give them as gifts to break the ice with whoever he met at military parties or cookouts in his hometown of Cookeville, Tennessee.”

Ferrell created the multipurpose sauce because he wanted to declutter his refrigerator and rely on one bottle to flavor every meal. It would take his granddaughter multiple tries to recreate the original recipe. She used $15,000 in savings to hire a manufacturer operated by an Amish family in Chillicothe, Ohio. With their home-cooking techniques and equipment, they managed to replicate the sauce in large batches. “They literally hand-poured the sauce into 700 bottles,” says Scales, who took them door-to-door to mom-and-pop groceries and farmers’ markets. At $5 a bottle, Mutt’s Sauce sold out within its first week.

She was eager to increase output and lower prices to compete with other condiments. But she had to find a larger manufacturer that she could afford and that would be able to maintain the same tanginess while producing mass quantities. “We want the sauce to be used by everyday families. We don’t want to be too high-end,” says Scales.

In 2016 she attended a military conference in Dallas where she learned of the Heroes to CEOs grant contest run by Bob Evans Foods, which produces and distributes frozen foods and side dishes. Candidates had to submit a video and story about their business’s military or veteran roots in order to win a $25,000 grant.

Mike Townsley, CEO of Bob Evans Foods, says this program is one way to carry on the spirit of Bob Evans, the company’s late founder. “He had a soft spot for the military and veterans because he served in the Army,” said Townsley.

The company has kicked off its second annual Heroes to CEOs contest. In addition to the grant, three finalists win a trip to New York City where they will receive mentoring from BEF executives and a half-day coaching session with Shark Tank judge Daymond John. “He’s equipped to teach them ways to gain momentum that are unique to an entrepreneur,” says Townsley. “It’s so much more different starting a small business wearing many hats, versus a large corporation that I run.”

According to John, all military and veteran business owners should act like supportive partners: “Their biggest asset is a large network of other men and women who they’ve served with. Tap this core group and symbiotically learn from them and serve them.”

Continue onto Forbes to read the complete article.

VA Jobs You May Qualify for With Military Training

Career

You’ve spent years sacrificing for your country and working hard to protect it. But what happens when it comes times to transitioning to a civilian career? Are job opportunities available to you after military service?

Here’s some good news: You have a variety of options when it comes to a career at VA.

VA Careers has a Transitioning Military Personnel initiative designed to raise awareness about civilian careers for former service members at the nation’s largest integrated health care organization.

In fact, based on certain military occupational specialties you learned in service, you can apply for several positions immediately after your service. Other VA positions offer preference for veteran applicants or are a good fit for those who worked in military health.

The even better news? We offer employees premium-paid health insurance and robust retirement plans. Veterans working at VA also enjoy education support through veteran-focused scholarships, professional development opportunities and accommodations to make the workplace fully accessible.

Ready to kick start a civilian career? Check out these five VA jobs you may be well suited for after military service:

Intermediate Care Technician (ICT)

Former military medic or corpsman should look at ICT careers. As an ICT, you apply your military medical training and skills as a health care provider at a VA medical center (VAMC). You perform complex technician-level diagnostic and treatment procedures. You also provide intermediate and advanced paramedic-level care, intervene in crises and do much more.

Health Technician/Para Rescue Specialist

Former corpsmen and medics bring the skills, abilities and experience acquired during active duty to careers as health technicians. These include delivering direct patient care, taking vital signs, administering medication and communicating results. Other responsibilities include providing diagnostic support and medical assistance to VAMCs and specialty clinics.

Medical Support Assistant (MSA)

MSA positions require tact and diplomacy, and that’s why former military personnel are right for these roles. As the front-line contact with patients and staff, you set the tone for customer service at VA. You use your shared experience to comfort fellow veterans coping with administrative processes or difficult health issues.

Nursing Assistant

Approximately 16 percent of all VA nurses are veterans. That’s not a surprising figure. Former military personnel bring the skills learned during service—working as team, caring for others and supporting a mission—to VA nursing careers. This role involves helping licensed nursing staff provide patient care. Although certification is desirable, it’s not necessary for your application. Nursing staff may take advantage of the special education support programs we offer to earn the degrees and certifications necessary to become a Licensed Practical Nurse or a Registered Nurse.

Support Services

Every team member at VA has a meaningful role to play in the care of veterans, including those in the support services role. These positions include housekeeping aid, federal protective officer, engineering technician or transportation clerk. Housekeeping aides, in particular, are given veteran preference during the hiring process. “Our housekeeping staff keep facilities safe for our patients, and veterans and their families rely on them,” said Darren Sherrard, associate director of VA Recruitment Marketing. “We are actively looking to fill these positions with quality employees, including our veterans.”

Source: va.gov

5 Ways Veterans Can Leverage Facebook to Grow their Career or Business

BusinessCareer

By Payton Iheme, U.S. Public Policy Manager, Facebook

Each year, an estimated 200,000 service members return to civilian life and for some, this brings uncertainty to what’s next in their career, according to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

However, these service men and women continue to contribute to their country, even when they return, albeit in a different way.

I have spent more than 15 years on active duty and continue to serve—from being an officer in the Army’s Special Operations Command and a White House Senior Policy Advisor to currently a Lieutenant Colonel in the Army National Guard. In addition, as the co-owner of a home remodeling business, I know firsthand how important it is to have the right tools and support, whether it’s in the military or as a veteran small business owner.

Everyday Facebook serves as a platform for veterans to find and be a part of groups that help them build community. In fact, more than 900,000 people in the US participate in more than 2,000 groups for military members, veterans and their spouses on Facebook. As a proud supporter of the military-veteran community, Facebook has also made it easier for veterans transitioning into civilian life to find career opportunities and draw on their unique skills to start their entrepreneurial journey.

That’s why we recently announced the launch of the Military and Veterans Hub to provide an all-encompassing resource for veterans to continue to build their community, find job opportunities and enhance their digital skills through Facebook to grow a business or a career.

Facebook also partnered with SCORE, the nation’s largest network of volunteer expert business mentors, to provide business education and mentoring to military members, veterans and their families who want to become entrepreneurs. I utilized SCORE’s resources during my transition into civilian life and it helped me not only build on my experience and skills to find a new career, but it also gave me the confidence to start something new. I’m particularly thrilled about our partnership with SCORE and the opportunities it will unlock for fellow veterans.

Whether you want to build a business or a career, here are five ways military members, spouses and veterans can use Facebook’s Military and Veteran Hub to their advantage:

1. Connect with a mentor from a cohort of SCORE’s experienced business mentors, who are also U.S. veterans themselves, through the Mentor Match program.

2. Access our veteran-focused educational toolkit for launching a business that includes steps for developing a business plan.

3. Attend a veteran-focused interactive workshop to receive guidance on starting a business. We’ll be working with ten local SCORE chapters to bring these in-person workshops to cities that we’ve determined to have a high concentration of military members and veterans.

4. Find employment opportunities through the Facebook Jobs Tool. Frank Diaz, an Army veteran and owner of Tin Hut BBQ, uses the Facebook Jobs Tool, for example, to source employees at his mobile restaurant with an objective to hire discharged veterans in need of work and mentorship.

5. Test out the Facebook Military Skills Translator, designed to help people find careers on Facebook relevant to their military experience. As the Public Policy Manager at Facebook, I’m proud to be a part of a company that values my experience and allows me to use my military skills to make an impact on the business.

Facebook’s Military and Veteran Hub make it easier for military spouses and the military community to find and access Facebook’s resources, tools, events and groups. For more information, visit our website here

Payton Iheme (Facebook US Public Policy) focuses on policy issues on a range of topics, but works closely on issues related to the Internet, digital economy/small business, counter terrorism, cybersecurity, data privacy, and partnerships. Previously, she served as the Senior Policy Advisor for Communication Technology at the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy. She holds honor degrees from the University of Texas and a master’s degree in Government Policy from the George Washington University. Iheme currently serves as a Lieutenant Colonel in the Army National Guard.

Meet Brittney Nicole: Navy Veteran Turned Fashion Entrepreneur

BusinessCareer

A clothes hangar filled with women's coats

Transitioning from military life back into civilian life is a challenge for any veteran. While there are many different approaches in choosing a career, one U.S. Navy Veteran decided that she would approach her career choice by following her passions.

Always having a love for fashion, Brittney Nicole decided to open her own clothing business, Coco’s Wardrobe, upon her retirement from the U.S. Navy. The New Orleans based boutique designs, manufactures, and sells women’s clothing that is meant to look as good as they feel, blending comfort with style. All of the clothing in Nicole’s shop has a women’s desire to feel confident and comfortable at the forefront of everything that is produced.

In addition, Nicole has also began selling uniquely designed face masks in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Why Veterans Make the Best Candidates for the Workforce

CareerTransitioning

A male body wearing a suit that is half black and half camoflauge

Recently, LinkedIn released its “Veteran Opportunity Report,” a list of data that serves to better understand the reality of transitioning veterans into the workforce. The data shows that Veterans are more likely to have a college education, more work experience, and a lower turnaround rate than those who have never served in the military.

These are all ideal qualities for job hiring and yet military veterans are still having a difficult time securing jobs due to the myths about hiring veterans. In fact, the same LinkedIn report stated the unemployment rate of veterans has increased by a whopping 34 percent. However, educating yourself and being aware of the myths are some of the first steps to understanding why military veterans can be some of the best employees for a company, regardless of what the company specializes in.

Myth #1: Veterans don’t have proper work experience

Yes, the culture on the battlefield is different from the culture at home, but military personnel are trained in several areas that result in trusted and efficient employees. In the military, the consequences of mistakes and the criticalness of executing orders are much higher than that of the workplace. Veterans are trained on how to properly ensure that their missions are carried out carefully and efficiently, which transfer over to completing workplace tasks and duties. Many also believe most veterans do not have the mental health to keep a job, but this, as the LinkedIn data show, is incorrect, as they stay at their jobs longer than those who have not served.

Myth #2: Veterans don’t have the capacity to be leaders

This need for attentive, efficient workers also transfers over for a need of management. Managers undergo a significant amount of stress, while trying to manage a group of employees. Veterans on the battlefield also undergo the stress of managing those they are in charge of, but at the risk of bigger stakes and stresses. Veterans are already used to a much higher level of stress when it comes to managing others, which gives them even more of an advantage when they manage employees with a lower level of stress. In fact, veterans are 70 percent more likely to take leadership roles than those who have not served.

Myth #3: Veterans Have a High Turnover Rate

In fact, the opposite is true. LinkedIn’s Report states veterans are actually more likely to stay with their companies for 8.3 percent longer than an employee who has not seen military culture. They are also 39 percent more likely to be promoted in filling larger roles than their counterparts.

It can be hard to know if an individual can take on a needed position, especially when rumors and misconceptions fly around on an entire culture. But taking a look at the data and experiences of veterans can help potential employers to understand how efficient their businesses can be if they hire the ones who know how to lead and succeed.

TECH EXPO – Virtual Hiring Event

Career

Mans hands shown tying on laptop computer

TECHEXPO Top Secret, the Nation’s premier producer of professional job fairs for the defense & intelligence industry, has proudly announced that they are launching a Virtual Hiring Event for Security-Cleared professionals. For over 25 years, TECHEXPO has consistently produced the leading cleared in-person hiring events for the most sought-after positions in IT, Engineering, Cyber Security, and a multitude of other industries.

During these unprecedented times, TECHEXPO understands the need for both job seekers and employers to be able to interview for open positions, all while practicing social distancing. Through this virtual Hiring Event, TECHEXPO provides a safe way to interview from the comfort of each individual’s own home or office. The distinguishing feature that sets TECHEXPO apart from the rest is the ability for job seekers and recruiters to conduct full interviews via live video, in addition to text chat.

The TECHEXPO Virtual Hiring Event will be held on May 14th and will be for professionals with any level of active security clearance.

The event will run from 12 PM – 5 PM EDT.

Some of the top defense & technology companies have already confirmed their participation in this event, including Deloitte, L3Harris, Amazon Web Services, Boeing Intelligence & Analytics, Raytheon, Northrop Grumman Technology Sector, AT&T Government Services, Leidos and many more! “We are thrilled that so many top tier companies have stepped up and are participating in these virtual hiring events!” states Bradford Rand, CEO of TECHEXPO Top Secret.”

The team at TECHEXPO also produces the Official Cyber Security Summit series throughout the nation and Canada, whereby some of those conferences are going virtual with a monthly “Cyber Summit Power Hour” held throughout the USA. Details: www.CyberSummitUSA.com

Companies looking to recruit security-cleared talent safely and efficiently can secure their virtual booth by contacting Bradford Rand, CEO of TECHEXPO, at BRand@TechExpoUSA.com / 212-655-4505 ext. 223.

Security-Cleared Professionals, Transitioning Military and or Veterans are encouraged to explore & interview for hundreds of jobs all across the country.

To view the growing list of companies recruiting and to register to attend as a job seeker, please visit TechExpoUSA.com

Service in America’s Navy can be a plus-up for Civilian Employment

CareerGovernment

Navy Veteran Kendrick Cowans is pictured at work next to the Texas Orthopedics office sign

By Burrell Parmer, Navy Recruiting District San Antonio Public Affairs

Service in America’s Navy not only can benefit many with the propensity to serve, but can also be beneficial to those who seek employment after military service. This was the case regarding Kendrick Cowans, of Anderson, South Carolina, who served in the Navy as a hospital corpsman (HM).

Cowans, a 1997 graduate of Westside High School in Anderson, joined America’s Navy in September 1997. Initially, he was classified as a submariner, but due to his high stature, he was reclassified to serve in the hospital corpsman career field.

During his 21-year career in America’s Navy, Cowans served at Navy Medical Center Portsmouth, Virginia; National Medical Center Bethesda, Maryland; Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina; and overseas in Germany.

His last duty was as a recruiter assigned to Navy Recruiting Station Texas City with Navy Talent Acquisition Group (NTAG) Houston.

“Being a recruiter was challenging,” said Cowans. “But once I learned the process, it became something I loved and became very successful at.”

According Cowans, he recruited more than 100 people into the Navy and was instrumental in his station earning NTAG Houston’s Small Station of the Year in 2016.

Additionally, he earned recruiter of the month recognition for several months.

After his service, Cowans began working as an orthopedic technician in Houston. He applied for other jobs and was called upon to work at Texas Orthopedics in February.

“They looked at my experience as a Navy corpsman and I believe it gave me the advantage over others,” said Cowans. “Everything I learned in the Navy prepared me for employment in my civilian life.”

Asked what he missed the most about his past service, Cowans said, “One thing I missed about being in the Navy is traveling. I loved being assigned to different locations and experiencing various environments.”

America’s Navy is still hiring amid COVID-19. Those interested in joining the Navy in Central and South Texas can contact a recruiter by visiting www.navy.com or through Facebook: Navy Recruiting District San Antonio.

Sailors can still expect to receive full benefits like health insurance, competitive pay and housing stipends and can continue to qualify for up to $40,000 in enlistment bonuses.

Whether a person has never served before, or want to serve the country again in a time of great need, there is a place for them in America’s Navy.

NRD San Antonio’s area of responsibility includes more than 34 Navy Recruiting Stations and Navy Officer Recruiting Stations spread throughout 144,000 square miles of Central and South Texas territory.

Source: Navy Office Of Community Outreach
Photo Credit: U.S. Navy photo by Burrell Parmer, Navy Recruiting District San Antonio Public Affairs

How to Translate Your Military Background into a Role in Cybersecurity

Career

Happy Military Family wife dreeses in fatigues holding child in arms with husband outside setting

Demand for cybersecurity talent is at a record high. Faced with a critical shortage of qualified candidates, organizations are increasingly taking chances on nontraditional applicants and training them for security roles. And many companies welcome veterans seeking jobs outside the military as exceptional candidates.

The fact is, our nation needs more cybersecurity professionals in every sector and in every region. For veterans seeking jobs outside the military, cybersecurity is an excellent way to translate existing training and experience into new responsibilities.

According to the National Initiative for Cybersecurity Careers and Studies (NICCS™), demand for cybersecurity experts is growing 12 times faster than the current U.S. job market, making cybersecurity one of the most sought-after careers in the country. Security clearances, combined with IT certifications and other training, make military veterans extra attractive employees.

So if you like technology, want to put your military skills to excellent use as a civilian, and seek a career with tremendous growth and earning potential, look no further. Enlisted and former officers often possess the mission mindset, time management skills, discipline and leadership information security demands.

Getting Your Foot in the Door

Even without direct experience, there are viable strategies you can put in place when adding cybersecurity to your job prospects. (ISC)², the world’s largest nonprofit association of certified cybersecurity professionals, developed a complimentary eBook offering tips and resources for breaking into the field. You can request your copy here.

(ISC)² believes that with the right action plan and an aptitude for technology, you are already well-positioned to make the transition. Self-study, guided training and industry certifications will put you on the right path. There’s no need to wait until after you’ve retired from active duty to build these skills.

A training and certification partner you can count on, (ISC)²has supported the government workforce since 1994. The organization fully understands the policies, requirements and challenges involved in securing our nation’s most critical assets. From cybersecurity readiness training to government-specific certifications to NICE Cybersecurity Workforce Framework mapping, (ISC)² has you covered.

All (ISC)² certifications are ANSI-approved, and most meet the requirements of the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) Directive 8570.1. In fact, (ISC)² developed its CAP certification to align with the NIST Risk Management Framework (RMF).

An Alternative Path to Certification

Aspiring cybersecurity pros often consider a path to certification through the Associate of (ISC)², which allows you to take (ISC)² certification exams without the required work experience.

Passing the exam earns you the Associate of (ISC)² designation – a badge that signals to potential employers you have security knowledge and are committed to the career. It also gives you access to (ISC)² resources to continue your education throughout the certification journey and beyond.

As you take next steps, don’t underestimate the value of your professionalism, life experience and leadership. These are key strengths in any sector, and savvy organizations understand that the military prepares veterans for civilian careers in ways that rival many programs and education. And as someone who puts others’ lives ahead of your own, who is better than you to serve and protect on the front lines of cybersecurity?

Help wanted amid coronavirus pandemic: These companies are hiring

Career

close up of man slloking at smartphone with laptop open on desk

As the novel coronavirus continues to spread, major companies are looking to ramp up their workforces to meet the demand for critical products such as food, household essentials and medical supplies.

Some of the nation’s largest retailers are even scrapping traditional hiring methods in order to fill open positions as the virus takes a foothold in every corner of the world. This demand for more workers in some sectors comes after early estimates suggest that at least a million workers could lose their jobs in March.

Since the outbreak, the number of jobless claims has surged as many businesses are forced to close their doors

Here are some of the companies that are hiring as the world continues to fight the spread of COVID-19:

7-Eleven

The convenience store chain is looking to hire anyone in need of a second job or who need to pick up extra hours of work.

Albertsons

Albertsons is hiring to fill positions immediately. There are well over 1,000 positions listed on its career page.

Aldi’s

Batavia, Illinois-based grocery chain Aldi’s said in a statement that they’ve hired “nearly 7,500 employees and we are continuing to hire more each day.”

The company currently has nearly 5,000 openings. While most are based in retail stores, there are a handful of openings in specialized fields such as human resources, public relations, and IT.

Amazon

Amazon is seeking to fill 100,000 new full- and part-time positions across the U.S.

CVS

CVS Health is looking to immediately hire 50,000 full-time, part-time and temporary roles across the country.

Dollar General

Dollar General plans to add up to 50,000 employees by the end of April.

“As the heightened demand for household essentials offered by Dollar General stores continues across the country amid COVID-19 concerns, the Company plans to nearly double its normal hiring rate and add up to 50,000 employees by the end of April as it continues to diligently work to support customers’ needs,” the company wrote in a statement.

Dollar Tree

Dollar Tree is looking to hire 25,000 individuals to support its stores and distribution centers nationwide.

“Whether you are home unexpectedly or are just starting your career, we have a broad range of positions to fit your needs and availability,” Betty Click, Dollar Tree’s chief human resources officer, said in a statement.

The positions include full- and part-time managers at more than 15,000 locations. There are also flexible part-time shifts for cashiers and stockers. Positions in the company’s distribution centers include order fillers, equipment operators and warehouse associates, Dollar Tree said.

Domino’s

Domino’s will be hiring 10,000 employees nationwide.

“Our corporate and franchise stores want to make sure they’re not only feeding people, but also providing an opportunity to those looking for work at this time, especially those in the heavily-impacted restaurant industry,” CEO Ritch Allison said in a statement.

General Electric Healthcare

The company plans to hire additional manufacturing employees to produce more medical equipment, including ventilators, in order to meet the demand created by the coronavirus pandemic.

Instacart

Instacart announced Monday that it will hire an additional 300,000 full-service shoppers across the United States during the next 3 months to meet customer demand for online grocery delivery and pickup because of the coronavirus pandemic.

“Today, we have more shoppers on the Instacart platform than ever before. Given the continued customer demand we expect over the coming months, we’ll be bringing on an additional 300,000 full-service shoppers to support cities nationwide,” the company said in a statement. “As more people look for immediate, flexible earnings opportunities during this time, we hope that Instacart can be an additional source of income for those looking to earn while also delivering for the communities in which they live.”

Lidl

The global discount supermarket chain is hiring up to 1,000 temporary employees across its stores and distribution centers in the U.S. for a minimum of two months.

New hires without health insurance will be eligible for medical benefits covering testing and treatment related to COVID-19 at no cost, the company announced.

“Every day, our number one priority is the health and safety of our customers and our team, and that is our primary focus during this public health emergency,” Lidl US Chairman Roman Heini said. “The new positions announced today will help us better meet the unprecedented needs of our customers. We are working hard to serve them and protect the health of our employees who are playing a critical role.”

Lowe’s

A spokesperson from Lowe’s confirmed to FOX Business that the company will be hiring 30,000 positions that will be a mix of full-time, part-time, overnight and seasonal roles for displace workers seeking short-term opportunities. The home improvement retailer is also offering special one-time bonuses of $300 for full-time workers and $150 for part-time workers.

Kroger

The Kroger family of companies is looking to add 10,000 workers in stores, manufacturing plants and distribution centers nationwide, a Kroger spokesperson told FOX Business.

Candidates may apply via on the company’s website and could be placed for employment within several days of applying, the company said in an emailed statement.

Papa John’s

Papa John’s is looking to hire up to 20,000 new restaurant team members.

PepsiCo

PepsiCo will hire 6,000 new, full-time, full-benefit frontline employees throughout the United States in the coming months, the company announced.

“With COVID-19 reshaping the way we run our business and live our lives, it’s important that we acknowledge the people keeping us steady during turbulent times, notably the heroic work of the millions of doctors, nurses, and healthcare professionals around the world,” PepsiCo CEO Ramon Laguarta said in a statement. “At the same time, there is important work being done in other sectors, including our own, to help maintain the supply of foods and beverages.”

Continue on to Yahoo News to read the complete article.

U.S. Department of Labor Recognizes Apprenticeship Program for Disabled Veterans

Career

businessman shaking hands with veteran with U.S. flag behind them

The U.S. Department of Labor formally recognized a new National Standards of Apprenticeship program for the Center for Business Acceleration (CBA) at a signing ceremony on February 12, 2020.

The apprenticeship includes certificate programs accredited by the ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB), making it the first ANAB-accredited program for disabled veterans. The apprenticeships will be offered nationwide through employers participating in the U.S. AbilityOne Commission’s AbilityOne Program, which provides employment opportunities to more than 45,000 people who are blind or have significant disabilities, including approximately 3,000 veterans.

The apprenticeship includes certificate programs accredited by ANAB to ANSI/ASTM E2659 for business management, quality management, risk management, and a new program for occupational health and safety management. The recognition opens up a new chapter for disabled U.S. veterans who have decided to pursue self-employment careers.

The apprenticeship program facilitates employment of persons with significant disabilities or blindness, including disabled veterans, and supports career and entrepreneur skills in cooperation with opportunities programs supported by U.S. AbilityOne Commission, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, U.S. Department of Labor, Community Rehabilitation Centers, and other employment options.

“AbilityOne’s veteran employment initiative will become the model for providing the skills bridge through apprenticeships for veterans with severe disabilities across the nation,” said CBA’s President Phillip Selleh during the signing ceremony.

“ANAB is proud to be part of this historic milestone to support veteran careers and their valuable contributions to the U.S. workforce,” said ANAB executive director Lane Hallenbeck. ANAB executive director Lane Hallenbeck and Dr. Turan Ayvaz, ANAB director of certificate accreditation programs, attended the signing ceremony along with representatives of the Department of Labor, Department of Defense, Department of Energy, Department of Veterans Affairs, U.S. AbilityOne Commission, and CBA.

About ANAB
The ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB) is the largest multi-disciplinary ISO/IEC 17011 accreditation body in North America, with comprehensive signatory status across the multilateral recognition arrangements of the International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation (ILAC) and International Accreditation Forum (IAF). The ANAB accreditation portfolio includes management systems certification bodies, calibration and testing labs, product certification bodies, personnel credentialing organizations, forensic test and calibration service providers, inspection bodies, police crime units, greenhouse gas validation and verification bodies, reference material producers, and proficiency test providers.

ANAB is a wholly owned subsidiary of the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), a private, not-for-profit organization dedicated to supporting the U.S. voluntary standards and conformity assessment system and strengthening its impact, both domestically and internationally.

About ANSI
The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) is a private non-profit organization whose mission is to enhance U.S. global competitiveness and the American quality of life by promoting, facilitating, and safeguarding the integrity of the voluntary standardization and conformity assessment system. Its membership is comprised of businesses, professional societies and trade associations, standards developers, government agencies, and consumer and labor organizations.

The Institute represents and serves the diverse interests of more than 270,000 companies and organizations and 30 million professionals worldwide. ANSI is the official U.S. representative to the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and, via the U.S. National Committee, the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). For more information, visit ansi.org.

About the Center for Business Acceleration
The Center for Business Acceleration (CBA) is a non-profit institution of higher learning that offers multiple curriculum program options that are accredited by the ANSI National Accreditation Board. The CBA network offers business professionals, entrepreneurs, and employees curricula designed for working professionals. CBA’s VA Accelerator is designed to assist veterans with business administration, management, and entrepreneurship.

Keep Your Eye on These 15 Jobs

Career

man dressed in a suit with several other professionals in the background

You might be thinking, “How can I find a private sector career when my work history is so different?” The good news is, though, there are plenty of great jobs for veterans out there.

The truth is, many employers are eager to hire veterans. The discipline, leadership and work ethic that you learn in the military translhttps://www.usveteransmagazine.com/wp-admin/post-new.php#edit_timestampate well into the private sector, and the diversity of experience you bring with you can help lead to new and innovative ideas and solutions.

So what jobs most benefit from these skills?

While your options are endless, we’ve put together a list of great jobs for veterans.

All of these positions benefit from the skills you learn in the military and have relatively low barriers to entry—no need to have years of directly related work experience.

Check them out below, and apply today!

PROJECT COORDINATOR

Average base pay: $51,468/yr

Project coordinators oversee projects, making sure each necessary component is delivered on time and within budget. To excel in this position, you’ll need superb organizational and communication skills.

See open jobs here: glassdoor.com/Job/project-coordinator-jobs-SRCH_KO0,19.htm

TRUCK DRIVER

Average base pay: $43,464/yr

Don’t let fears of automation dissuade you—truck drivers are in high demand right now and will likely continue to be in the foreseeable future. Truck drivers carry cargo from point A to point B and require a commercial driving license. It may also be a good idea to attend truck driving school if you don’t have experience driving large vehicles.

See open jobs here: glassdoor.com/Job/truck-driver-jobs-SRCH_KO0,12.htm

SALES REPRESENTATIVE

Average base pay: $39,300/yr

Sales representatives reach out and field inquiries from prospective customers, whether through email, phone or in-person. Sales representatives should have excellent people and communication skills and understand their clients’ needs.

See open jobs here: glassdoor.com/Job/sales-representative-jobs-SRCH_KO0,20.htm

RECRUITER

Average base pay: $51,349/yr

In many ways, recruiters’ jobs are very similar to sales representatives—but rather than selling a product or service to a client, they’re selling a candidate on a job and company. Recruiters both proactively seek out candidates for open jobs and field inquiries from interested candidates. Great people and organizational skills are a must.

See open jobs here: glassdoor.com/Job/recruiter-jobs-SRCH_KO0,9.htm

TECHNICIAN

Average base pay: $36,826/yr

If you have previous experience repairing or maintaining equipment, you might be interested in a career as a technician. Technicians work on all sorts of equipment and machinery, from cars to computers to aircraft and more. Depending on which field you enter, you may need certification, but programs are often significantly less time-intensive and costly than college degrees.

See open jobs here: glassdoor.com/Job/technician-jobs-SRCH_KO0,10.htm

OPERATIONS COORDINATOR

Average base pay: $48,397/yr

Operations coordinator is a role where you ensure that a business runs smoothly and efficiently. To do this, you’ll perform various support tasks for the team you’re assigned to. Candidates should be detail-oriented, organized and excellent at time management.

See open jobs here: glassdoor.com/Job/operations-coordinator-jobs-SRCH_KO0,22.htm

Store Manager

Average base pay: $50,688/yr

An excellent choice for anyone with leadership experience, store managers are tasked with leading the day-to-day functions of a store. This might include scheduling, inventory, employee training and coaching, marketing and reporting.

See open jobs here: glassdoor.com/Job/store-manager-jobs-SRCH_KO0,13.htm

Plumber

Average base pay: $50,000/yr

Another strong option for those with maintenance and repair experience, plumbers install and fix water-supplying pipes and drains. Plumbers usually need proper licensing, which can be obtained through a combination of training, experience and sometimes an exam.

See open jobs here: glassdoor.com/Job/plumber-jobs-SRCH_KO0,7.htm

Customer Support Representative

Average base pay: $33,512/yr

Customer support representatives’ primary responsibility is to keep customers satisfied. They do this by fielding questions and complaints, whether through phone, email, in person or on social media. Customer support representatives should have great people skills and an eagerness to become experts in their company’s products or services.

See open jobs here: glassdoor.com/Job/customer-support-representative-jobs-SRCH_KO0,31.htm

Electrician

Average base pay: $53,794/yr

As their title suggests, electricians install and repair electrical systems. They may work in residential homes, larger buildings, outdoor power lines or other specialties. Electricians typically need a license, which often requires formal training, an apprenticeship and an exam.

See open jobs here: glassdoor.com/Job/electrician-jobs-SRCH_KO0,11.htm

Logistics Coordinator

Average base pay: $46,898/yr

Those with military logistics training could excel in a private sector career in logistics. Logistics coordinators typically are responsible for managing activities in a company’s supply chain and may be responsible for coordinating and tracking shipments from departure to destination, communicating with suppliers and preparing accurate documents of record.

See open jobs here: glassdoor.com/Job/logistics-coordinator-jobs-SRCH_KO0,21.htm

Warehouse Associate

Average base pay: $24,000/yr

Prefer to stay on your feet and active? You might want to consider becoming a warehouse associate. Warehouse Associates spend their time moving packages between different destinations in a warehouse and may operate equipment like forklifts. While the pay is on the lower end, a hot labor market and the rising popularity of eCommerce is driving wages up.

See open jobs here: glassdoor.com/Job/warehouse-associate-jobs-SRCH_KO0,19.htm

DATA ANALYST

Average base pay: $67,377/yr

If you’ve got a knack for numbers, you might want to become a data analyst. Data analysts gather and analyze data to identify trends and derive business insights. You may need to teach yourself a few additional skills—SQL, R and Python are common computing languages used—but there’s no shortage of online tutorials and courses to help you out.

See open jobs here: glassdoor.com/Job/data-analyst-jobs-SRCH_KO0,12.htm

REAL ESTATE AGENT

Average base pay: $48,883/yr

Real estate agent is a common choice for career changers of all different backgrounds. Real estate agents connect prospective buyers or renters with available properties. They should have great interpersonal, sales and marketing skills, and must pass an exam to obtain a license.

See open jobs here: glassdoor.com/Job/real-estate-agent-jobs-SRCH_KO0,17.htm

IT SUPPORT SPECIALIST

Average base pay: $51,564/yr

Good with computers? Think about becoming an IT support specialist, whose primary duty is to ensure that an organization’s employees have a smooth technological experience. You may be required to assist with helpdesk tickets, set up equipment and train employees on new technologies. Formal training and certifications are sometimes required but can often be completed online or through a vocational school.

See open jobs here: glassdoor.com/Job/it-support-specialist-jobs-SRCH_KO0,21.htm

Source: Glassdoor

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