In early June, Veterans’ Employment Services (VES) staff from across the state gathered for a three day professional development conference focused on strengthening service delivery for Michigan’s veterans. The event provided staff with hands on learning, practical tools and deeper insight into the complex barriers many veterans face when seeking employment.

A key feature of the conference was an immersive simulation designed to help staff better understand the challenges experienced by justice involved veterans. Through this exercise, participants navigated real world barriers such as obtaining essential identification documents, accessing transportation and securing employment after incarceration. The simulation offered VES staff a valuable perspective on the stressors, systemic hurdles and logistical obstacles justice involved veterans must overcome to rebuild stability and become ready to join the workforce.

The conference also featured presentations from subject matter experts, including a session on financial literacy and resource navigation. Cory Grant, Chief Operations Officer with the Michigan Department of Treasury, provided an in depth overview of MI Money Matters, a collection of free financial tools available to all Michiganders. Cory shared strategies veterans can use to strengthen financial resilience and guided VES staff on how to help veterans access budgeting tools, savings resources and additional supports available at Michigan.gov/MIMoneyMatters.

VES staff left the conference with renewed insight, practical strategies and enhanced skills to better serve Michigan’s veterans—particularly those facing significant reentry and employment barriers. The training reaffirmed VES’ commitment to delivering informed, compassionate and effective employment support to those who have served our nation.

Michigan lawmakers are considering expanding the state’s missing person alert system to better protect at-risk veterans.

The new bill would add a new category: active-duty service members and veterans of the armed forces or Michigan National Guard who are reported missing and have a health condition that can put them in danger.

Read more about the proposed bill here.

Sam, the new VETLIFE digital companion, is officially live inside the Battle Buddy app. The idea behind Chat with Sam came from years of hearing the same frustrations from veterans:

“I don’t know where to start.” “I don’t know what I qualify for.” “I got overwhelmed and gave up.” “I called three places and nobody called me back.”

Most systems expect veterans to navigate complexity while already overwhelmed. Chat with Sam was built to simplify that experience. Whether a veteran is looking for VA benefits guidance, housing resources, employment direction, ways to reduce anxiety, or simply a starting point, Sam helps veterans move forward in real time. Not weeks later. Not after endless paperwork. Now.

More importantly, Sam was designed with one principle in mind: veterans deserve tools that empower them to become their own best advocates. Not passive recipients. Not numbers inside a system. People capable of rebuilding momentum.

Start chatting with Sam in the Battle Buddy app!

The Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency (MVAA) has launched a State of Michigan Veteran Benefits webpage. The webpage was created as a one-stop resource for veterans and their dependents to navigate benefits and services available within the state of Michigan. Information on available state benefits and resources include:

• Burial
• Education
• Employment and entrepreneurship
• Financial and legal assistance
• Housing
• Incarcerated veteran programs
• Income and property taxes
• Recreation
• Transportation 

For more information about specific benefits that may be available to you, find an accredited VSO in your area at Michigan.gov/VSO.

Lucas, a Marine Corps veteran, began working with Veterans' Career Advisor Bill Mourufas in late January when he needed support overcoming barriers rejoining the workforce after incarceration. Determined to build a stable future, Lucas expressed a strong interest in pursuing a career in the skilled trades.

Lucas received ongoing support including resume development, career coaching, interview preparation and job search assistance. VES worked closely with Lucas to identify career pathways that aligned with both his interests and long-term goals. Once Lucas identified the skilled trades as his preferred direction, VES partnered with Upper Peninsula Michigan Works! Business Services Specialist Terri Hill to identify apprenticeship and employment opportunities within the trades industry.

As part of this collaborative effort, Lucas was connected with Helmets to Hardhats representative Sam Dougherty, who helped guide him toward opportunities within the construction industry. Through this partnership, Lucas was connected to a bricklayer apprenticeship program that provided hands on training, mentorship and a direct pathway into union employment.

After successfully completing his apprentice training, Lucas was hired by BAC Local 2 to begin full time work as a bricklayer apprentice in May.

Lucas’ story demonstrates how collaboration, persistence and targeted support services can help justice involved veterans successfully reenter the workforce and establish meaningful careers. By utilizing veteran focused employment services and community partnerships, VES helped Lucas overcome barriers, gain valuable skills and secure long-term employment in a high demand industry.

Are you an Ann Arbor veteran feeling a bit lost on your career path? VeteranWorks presents a unique virtual opportunity to explore your potential, connect with inspiring individuals and build a truly fulfilling career for the Ann Arbor community.

This isn't just an online job fair; it's a chance to gain clarity and momentum. VeteranWorks helps Ann Arbor veterans discover passions, clarify goals and build a strong professional network.
Connect with a supportive community of fellow veterans who understand your unique challenges in transitioning to civilian life in Ann Arbor on Wednesday, July 22 from 2-5 p.m. 

Learn more about the event here.

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.