Veterans' Employment Services in Michigan: May 2023 Newsletter

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Veterans' Employment Services graphic, Priority of Service for Military Veterans, logos of U.S. military branches

May 2023

Veterans' Employment Services Newsletter

IN THIS ISSUE:


May is Military Appreciation Month

Military Appreciation Month written on a star

Gov. Whitmer proclaimed May as Military Appreciation Month, honoring military members and their families throughout the state by recognizing their sacrifices and celebrating their successes. 

“Michiganders who serve our state and nation in uniform embody our highest values and put their lives on the lines to keep us safe,” said Governor Whitmer. “Together, we will have their backs, ensuring they have healthcare, housing, and economic opportunity here in Michigan.”

One of the best ways to show support for the military is to donate to a charity that supports them. If you are able please consider donating to one of the following: 


Tips to Help You to Land a Civilian Job

VES mom with daughter

Your military skills and experiences are incredibly valuable in the civilian job market. And with the right strategies, you can confidently navigate this transition.

  1. Resume Revamp: Tailor your resume to highlight your military achievements and relevant skills.
  2. Networking Opportunities: Leverage your network of fellow veterans, mentors, and professionals to explore job openings, gain industry insights, and connect with potential employers.
  3. Translate Your Skills: Clearly articulate how your military skills transfer to the civilian workforce. Use common terms and explain the value you bring to potential employers.
  4. Professional Development: Further your education or obtain certifications that align with your career goals.
  5. Job Fairs and Hiring Events: Participate in job fairs and hiring events specifically geared toward veterans, where employers actively seek out military talent. View a list of upcoming events below.
  6. Utilize Online Resources: Explore websites and job boards like MiTalent.org that prioritizes connecting veterans with job opportunities.
  7. Transition Assistance Programs: Tap into resources offered by organizations such as Military OneSource, which provide dedicated support and guidance throughout the transition process.
  8. Be Flexible: Be open to starting at an entry-level position or pursuing opportunities that may not perfectly align with your military role. 

Stay motivated, stay focused, and embrace the new opportunities that await you! Explore more resources at Michigan.gov/VES and through the Michigan Works! network.


Michigan Extends Tuition Assistance to National Guard Family Members

Gov. Whitmer with group of armed service members

Last week, Gov. Whitmer signed a bill to give tuition assistance benefits to spouses and dependents of National Guard members.

House Bill 4199 expands eligibility for tuition assistance to National Guard members' family members and increases the funding cap from $10 million to $15 million.

The Michigan National Guard Tuition Assistance Program provides financial assistance for service members attending any public or private college, university, vocational school, technical school, or trade school located in Michigan.

"The program offers members of the guard tuition assistance, so they can pursue higher education or skills training at a lower cost. But we know that next to every member of the Guard is a family: an invaluable support system that makes countless sacrifices," Whitmer said. "Getting this done will open doors for so many more people to get on paths to higher education and good-paying, in-demand jobs without a lifetime of debt."

Read the full press release.


Professional Development Services Through USO Pathfinder Transition Program

USO logo

The USO Pathfinder Transition Program works with strategic partners to connect service members and military spouses to resources through a holistic approach, focusing on employment, education, financial readiness, mentorship, and benefits.

Through the creation of an individualized action plan, USO Transition Specialists collaborate with individuals to identify their personal and professional goals and build a roadmap to achieving them, while also identifying services and resources that are the best fit for their needs.

This program also offers support to plan for life after the military, connecting participants to valuable resources for a smooth transition to civilian life.

USO Transition Specialists provide these free services through one on-one support (either virtually, or in person) and help military families create a plan for success now – and for the future. Get started at USO.org.


Veterans Helping Veterans banner

Veteran Success: VES Staff Work Together to Help Navy Veteran Land Multiple Job Offers!

Close up of two people shaking hands

Navy veteran Trisha Bednarczk successfully completed her master's degree in project management through the Veteran Readiness and Employment program. She was referred to Veterans’ Career Advisor (VCA) Paul Burke for assistance finding a job.

Together, Trisha and VCA Burke developed a targeted employment plan that included crafting a tailored resume. Once Trisha was job ready, VCA Burke referred her to Local Veterans' Employment Representative (LVER) Kendal Kettle.

Trisha actively applied for job referrals provided by LVER Kettle and maintained regular communication with both her and VCA Burke regarding her applications. At the same time, LVER Kettle advocated for Trisha with employers, resulting in her being offered interviews for the five positions she applied for!

After completing all five interviews, Trisha received immediate job offers for three of them. Ultimately, she decided to accept the Project Manager position at Fincantieri Marinette Marine, which was a perfect fit for her recently completed degree and offered her a competitive wage.

Throughout the process, VCA Burke and LVER Kettle employed a people-centered approach to Trisha's case, leading to multiple interview opportunities. Additionally, they provided Trisha with thorough interview skills training, significantly enhancing her chances of securing a position.

Trisha expresses deep appreciation for the assistance she received from VES and is thrilled about her new employment opportunity. 


PGA HOPE Events

PGA HOPE flyer

PGA HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere), the military program spearheaded by PGA REACH, aims to enrich the lives of veterans and Active-Duty military personnel by introducing them to golf. 

At its core, PGA HOPE is dedicated to providing a transformative experience for our nation's heroes. Through the sport of golf, this exceptional program offers a holistic approach, enhancing their overall well-being and fostering a sense of camaraderie. 

The organization is offering several sessions of golf throughout the summer. All events are free for veterans and golf clubs, balls and tees will be provided for those who do not have their own. 

View the list of upcoming events.


Last Month to Sign Up for a Google Career Certificate Scholarship!

Google career certificate graphic

Scholarships for the Google Career Certificates are still available! The Google Career Certificate program can help you get on the fast track to a competitively paid job in a high-growth field.

You don’t need relevant experience or a degree to complete this flexible, online job training. Just put the skills, passion, and ambition you already have to work.

  • Explore what the program has to offer at grow.google/certificates. Learn more about how the Google Career Certificates work to put you on the path to in-demand jobs.
  • Learn how you can earn a Google Career Certificate for free by contacting your local Michigan Works! office at MichiganWorks.org.

Designed by Google, this self-paced, online training program can prepare you for careers in the high-growth fields of project management, user experience (UX) design, data analytics, and IT support.

And with under 10 hours spent studying a week, you can be prepped for a new career in less than six months. There are over 1.27 million job openings across Certificate fields and the demand is growing. Earn a credential and stand out to employers with a Google Career Certificate.


Virtual Job Fair Calendar banner

Check Out these Upcoming Job and Career Events

An up-to-date list of upcoming job and career events is available on MiTalent.org's Career Events Calendar.

 

Samaritas Job-a-Palooza

May 30, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Event Address:
 West Michigan Works! - 215 Straight Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504
Event Details: view the details here

Samaritas is looking to fill 40+ different job openings at all different shifts, including full-time, part-time and contingent positions. Spanish bilingual skills are welcomed and offer up to an additional $2 per hour. Raffle and light refreshments will be provided. 

 

Metro Detroit Career Expo

May 31, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Event Address: Marriott Hotel - 3600 CenterPoint Pkwy, Pontiac, MI 48341 
Event Details: view the details here

The Michigan Metro Detroit Career Expo is an exciting opportunity for job seekers and employers to connect and explore career opportunities. This event is a one-stop-shop for job seekers to meet with top companies, learn about current job openings, and attend informative seminars on topics such as resume writing and interview skills.

 

Genesee Intermediate School District Career Fair

June 7, 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.  
Event Address: 
Genesee Career Institute - 5081 Torrey Rd, Flint, MI 48507
Event Details: view the details here

GISD will be conducting on-site, one-on-one interviews for multiple positions. 

 

Michigan Trades Career Event (hybrid event)

May 12, 3:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.  
Event Address:
Capital Commons Center - 400 S Pine St, Lansing, MI 48933
Event Details: register for the event here

Are you a skilled trades professional looking for a great career opportunity? Join us May 12, 2023 to learn how you can become a member of the State of Michigan Professional Trades Team! 

 

Job Fairs Count as Work Search Activity in Michigan
Registering for and attending Virtual Job Fair events supported by the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity count as official work search activities required by the Unemployment Insurance Agency. Check out upcoming virtual and in-person job fairs by visiting MiTalent.org’s Career Events website.


Event Success Tips

  • Be Prepared: Charge your phone and practice your elevator pitch.
  • Keep an Open Mind: You never know which company has the perfect job for you.
  • Work the Room: Stop by every booth and share your QR code with every organization.
  • Rule of 3: Get at least three company follow-ups.
  • Apply as You Network: Apply to open positions while you network with recruiters.
  • Smile: Be confident. You've got this!

About Veterans’ Employment Services

VES logo

Welcome to the Veterans’ Employment Services (VES) Newsletter. Our mission is to assist you and your family secure meaningful careers in Michigan.

The concept of veterans helping veterans is a trademark of the VES team and one of the keys to its success. Veterans face many challenges when transitioning out of the military – finding meaningful employment should not be one of them.

  • Veterans in need of employment assistance should contact the nearest Michigan Works! One-Stop Service Center by calling 800-285-WORKS (9675) or visiting MichiganWorks.org.
  • More information about Veterans’ Employment Services is available at Michigan.gov/VES.
  • Register today and start your job search at Pure Michigan Talent Connect at MiTalent.org.

Health and Other Resources

 

Health Resources

Additional Resources

Health Benefits: 877-222-8387
Other VA Benefits: 800-827-1000

Veterans Crisis Line: 800-273-8255
Homeless Services: 877-424-3838

Health Benefits
www.va.gov/health-care

Veterans Crisis Line
veteranscrisisline.net 

Mental Health
www.mentalhealth.va.gov

Homeless Services
www.va.gov/homeless

MyHealthVet
www.myhealth.va.gov 

Readjustment Counseling (Vet Centers)
www.vetcenter.va.gov 

Disease Prevention
www.prevention.va.gov

Compensated Work Therapy
www.va.gov/health/cwt

Women Veterans Health Care
www.womenshealth.va.gov

Substance Abuse Programs www.mentalhealth.va.gov/substance-use.asp

Geriatrics and Extended Care
www.va.gov/geriatrics

National Center for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
www.ptsd.va.gov 

Rural Health
www.ruralhealth.va.gov 

 

MORE VETERANS' RESOURCES

If you are a veteran looking for information concerning education, health care, benefits or quality of life programs, please visit the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency for more information, or call the Michigan Veteran Resource Service Center at 800-MICH-VET. 


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Veterans' Employment Services is part of Workforce Development, within the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity's Office of Employment and Training. Michigan.gov/VES