Continuing to Serve: Finding Leadership Opportunities for Veterans

With the passing of Veterans Day earlier this month, the importance of recognizing our veterans for their service to this country is fresh in our minds. Those currently serving in our armed forces, as well as veterans, have to overcome many challenges throughout their tenure in the military. However, often the most difficult battle is getting acclimated once returning stateside (or ending the service). Jayson Browder, Founder of Veterans in Global Leadership, saw the need to fill this gap. On November 10, the Veterans in Global Leadership had their annual forum at the Center for a New American Security with a focus on the National Security Workforce in the 21^st Century. Those in attendance ranged from current experts from government to current fellows, as well as a Medal of Honor recipient. All shared the passion for empowering veterans. Despite veterans having a 3% unemployment rate nationwide, the average length of time spent at the first job after serving is 9 months. While there is no one explanation for why the retention rate is so short, the panel pointed to the lack of effective resources that the Military provides for its troops when they leave the service. Rather than taking a less meaningful job, Veterans in Global Leadership provides an avenue for those who have a desire in shaping U.S. policy and want to enter into the national security workforce. Veterans in Global Leadership does more than simply matching veterans with employers. Instead, the organization matches each of its fellows with a mentor for one academic year to help provide a transition from military to civilian life by developing goals and allowing for paths to success in their own area of interest. The vast majority of veterans have little knowledge on the opportunities available to them after their service, according to forum participants. Veterans have the skills and knowledge to succeed in the workplace, however the ability to directly communicate these skills into viable work experience is difficult. This challenge is especially relevant for those who are of enlisted rank. Browder’s advice to veterans at any stage of service is simple: find your passion. Once a passion is identified, the Veterans in Global Leadership can provide the ability to network with those interested and also passionate about the same topics. Apart from employment, the mission is to also to build a brand that is inclusive to the needs of veterans and empower them with the tools to thrive. The program began last year with its first class of 14 fellows, and has doubled this year to a class of 30 with 15 fellows at the George Washington University and another 15 at Fordham University. After founding the organization last year, Browder was surprised by the feedback he received and the desire of veterans to take on leadership roles in both the public and private sector. There are currently plans to expand outside of the DC corridor to the west coast, Texas, and Nebraska to expand the network and opportunities possible through the organization.