The Veterans’ Employment Services (VES) team proudly attended the 2026 National Association of State Workforce Agencies (NASWA) Veterans Conference, joining workforce professionals from across the nation who are dedicated to strengthening employment outcomes for America’s veterans. The conference highlighted innovative strategies, national best practices and emerging tools designed to improve services for veterans seeking meaningful, sustainable employment.

Throughout the event, the VES team participated in sessions focused on modernizing service delivery, enhancing case management effectiveness, improving federal and state coordination, and expanding partnerships with employers committed to hiring veterans. Workshops also emphasized performance accountability, data driven decision making and new approaches for supporting veterans with barriers to employment.

By engaging in discussions with leaders from the U.S. Department of Labor, other state workforce agencies and veteran focused organizations, the team gained valuable insight into evolving national standards and practical techniques they can implement in Michigan.

The knowledge and strategies brought back from the conference will help strengthen Michigan’s veteran employment program through:

• More effective assessment and enrollment practices
• Improved documentation and case management workflows
• Stronger employer partnerships and job readiness strategies
• Expanded awareness of veteran focused resources and national initiatives
• Enhanced consistency and quality in front line service delivery

VES remains committed to applying these insights to ensure every veteran receives high quality, timely and personalized employment support. Their participation in this year’s conference reinforces the state’s continued dedication to helping veterans transition successfully into the civilian workforce and achieve long term career stability.

Join the Veterans Resource Fair at Cedar Woods Assisted Living on July 16 at 4:30 p.m., where Veterans, family members and caregivers can connect directly with local organizations, explore available benefits, and access valuable services and resources designed to support those who served.

As part of the Cedar Woods Backyard BBQ, this event brings together a wide range of community partners dedicated to raising awareness and helping veterans get connected to the care and support they deserve.

Meet with representatives from the Veterans Affairs Ann Arbor Healthcare System, who will be on-site to help you apply for, understand and use your VA healthcare benefits. Learn more about the event here.

Jason Bos, West Michigan VCA

How has your military experience helped you in your position as a Veterans' Career Advisor (VCA)?

As a U.S. Army veteran, my military experiences help me better connect with veteran clients by sharing similar experiences, which helps clients open up to me sooner. This allows me to help them find gainful employment and refer them to supportive services faster. 

What should veterans expect when they meet with a VCA?

When veterans meet with a VCA, they should expect to meet with someone who cares about their success, listens to their needs and will support them with the ultimate goal of attaining employment. Michigan Works! is a one-stop shop where veterans can receive individualized career services to include training, various employment related workshops, job search assistance and comprehensive assessment interviews. 

What resource do you recommend to veterans seeking employment?

There are various resources both locally and federally that are designed to assist veterans who need employment assistance. Veterans can find these resources by visiting a Michigan Works! Service Center and meeting with a Veterans’ Career Advisor.

After 15 years of incarceration, Jeremy was paroled on March 31, 2026. Just two weeks later, he visited the Michigan Works! Southeast Lenawee Service Center looking for a fresh start. During his initial visit, Jeremy identified himself as a veteran and the Michigan Works! staff got him connected to a Veterans’ Career Advisor (VCA) for individualized support.

Through the VCA, Jeremy received several key services that helped guide his reentry and job search, including: 

• Comprehensive assessment of his military background, work history and reentry needs. 
• Targeted career guidance aligned with employer hiring policies. 
• Career coaching focused on job readiness and transition support. 
• Pre‑vocational services to strengthen workplace skills and expectations. 
• Assistance in developing a tailored job‑search strategy. 

Jeremy put this support to work immediately. He launched an active job search, was transparent about his background, and quickly connected with local opportunities. Within weeks, he interviewed with Manpower and accepted a placement with Daejin Advanced Materials USA, Inc. in Adrian.  

Jeremy’s determination, combined with focused veteran and reentry support, helped him successfully return to the workforce and take meaningful steps toward rebuilding his life. He began his new job less than two months after starting his job search!

The Michigan Military Heritage Museum held its Living History Day on Saturday, June 27 in Jackson. Volunteers at the event sought to present an accurate history of America’s wars and conflicts through hands-on reenactment.

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.