Hire Heroes USA https://www.hireheroesusa.org Thu, 14 May 2026 17:27:48 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 https://www.hireheroesusa.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/cropped-FAVICON-1-1-100x100.png Hire Heroes USA https://www.hireheroesusa.org 32 32 Volunteer Spotlight: Russ Fink https://www.hireheroesusa.org/volunteer-spotlight-russ-fink/ Thu, 14 May 2026 12:00:00 +0000 https://www.hireheroesusa.org/?p=24228 Hire Heroes USA

Volunteer Spotlight: Russ Fink

When Russ Fink first learned about Hire Heroes USA more than six years ago, the organization’s mission immediately inspired him to get involved.

In this Volunteer Spotlight, Russ shares how his experience in media and academia helps veterans and military spouses shape their personal narratives and market their skills with confidence. From helping clients reframe their military experience to encouraging others to simply “start small” when giving back, Russ’s story is a powerful reminder that meaningful impact often begins with a single conversation.

The post Volunteer Spotlight: Russ Fink appeared first on Hire Heroes USA and is written by Cara McCann.

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Hire Heroes USA

Volunteer Spotlight: Russ Fink

Volunteer Spotlight: Russ Fink

When Russ Fink’s colleague introduced him to Hire Heroes USA more than six years ago, the organization’s mission immediately resonated with him. The opportunity to help veterans and military spouses find purposeful careers in the civilian workforce felt deeply meaningful. Russ saw a chance to support others in discovering careers they were passionate about while making a lasting impact.

Since then, he has become a dedicated volunteer, using his professional background in media and academia to help clients shape and communicate their personal stories. Drawing from industries that often follow non-linear career paths, he offers practical insight into how experiences and skills can translate into compelling career opportunities.

For Russ, the most rewarding part of volunteering is seeing how his guidance truly connects with the people he supports. Whether helping a client refine a resume, prepare for an interview, or better understand how to market their skills, he values being able to make a tangible difference in someone’s career journey.

If he had to share one piece of advice, it would be this: be passionate, persistent, and intentional with your story. Instead of simply listing accomplishments on a resume, Russ encourages clients to create a narrative that weaves together their experiences and demonstrates why those experiences matter.

One client interaction, in particular, remains especially memorable. Russ worked with a veteran who struggled to recognize how their military experience could translate into the civilian workforce. What began as resume and LinkedIn support evolved into a deeper shift in perspective, helping the client better understand the value of their skills and experiences. Together, they reshaped not only the client’s professional materials, but also their confidence.

Moments like these continue to fuel Russ’s passion for volunteering. Beyond the direct impact on clients, he says the experience has allowed him to build meaningful relationships within the veteran community and connect with people outside of his own personal and professional circles.

Russ believes supporting veterans and military spouses does not have to feel overwhelming. He reminds others to start small. Whether it’s offering your time, making an introduction, sharing feedback, or simply listening, every effort matters.

Through thoughtful guidance, storytelling expertise, and a genuine commitment to helping others succeed, Russ Fink exemplifies the spirit of volunteerism at Hire Heroes USA. His dedication continues to empower veterans and military spouses to move forward with confidence as they pursue what comes next.


If you would like to make a difference in the lives of veterans and military spouses, please click here to learn more about volunteering with Hire Heroes USA.

The post Volunteer Spotlight: Russ Fink appeared first on Hire Heroes USA and is written by Cara McCann.

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Top Jobs & Training Programs for May 2026 https://www.hireheroesusa.org/top-jobs-training-programs-for-may-2026/ Mon, 11 May 2026 20:26:21 +0000 https://www.hireheroesusa.org/?p=24220 Hire Heroes USA

Top Jobs & Training Programs for May 2026

Every month, Hire Heroes USA selects several job openings from our job board to highlight. These job openings are posted by partnered employers looking to hire veteran and military spouse talent.

The post Top Jobs & Training Programs for May 2026 appeared first on Hire Heroes USA and is written by Cara McCann.

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Hire Heroes USA

Top Jobs & Training Programs for May 2026

Top Jobs & Training Programs for May 2026

Every month, Hire Heroes USA selects several job openings from our job board to highlight. These job openings are posted by partnered employers looking to hire veteran and military spouse talent.

View jobs from our featured employer this month, Pye-Barker. Also, download the document below and check out several of our training partners.

Click here to download the newsletter.

The post Top Jobs & Training Programs for May 2026 appeared first on Hire Heroes USA and is written by Cara McCann.

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The Hidden Workforce Reconsidered: Why Military Spouse Talent Is Too Valuable to Overlook https://www.hireheroesusa.org/hidden-workforce-military-spouse-talent/ Thu, 07 May 2026 10:00:00 +0000 https://www.hireheroesusa.org/?p=24216 Hire Heroes USA

The Hidden Workforce Reconsidered: Why Military Spouse Talent Is Too Valuable to Overlook

Military spouses represent one of the most capable—and overlooked—talent pools in today’s workforce. Despite high levels of education and adaptability, they continue to face disproportionately high rates of unemployment and underemployment, often due to structural barriers like frequent relocation and outdated hiring practices.

This Military Appreciation Month, we’re highlighting the data behind this hidden workforce and making the case for change. When military spouses are given the opportunity to contribute at their full potential, the impact extends far beyond the individual—strengthening families, organizations, and the broader economy.

The post The Hidden Workforce Reconsidered: Why Military Spouse Talent Is Too Valuable to Overlook appeared first on Hire Heroes USA and is written by Cara McCann.

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Hire Heroes USA

The Hidden Workforce Reconsidered: Why Military Spouse Talent Is Too Valuable to Overlook

The Hidden Workforce Reconsidered: Why Military Spouse Talent Is Too Valuable to Overlook


Career transitions are rarely linear. This is especially the case for veterans, transitioning service mMilitary spouses represent one of the most capable and overlooked segments of today’s workforce. Highly educated, adaptable, and experienced in navigating change, they bring a level of resilience that’s difficult to replicate. Despite these strengths, military spouses continue to face disproportionately high rates of unemployment and underemployment.

During Military Appreciation Month, we believe recognition of service should extend to the spouses who support our service members. It should highlight how these spouses’ careers are often shaped and disrupted by service. When we recognize all that military spouses bring to the table, we can open up opportunities that offer benefits at the individual, familial, and community level. 

The Reality Behind the Numbers

The data tells a clear story. According to the Department of Labor Veterans’ Employment and Training Service, military spouses experience a 21% unemployment rate, significantly higher than the current 4.3% civilian unemployment rate. Furthermore, military spouses earn about 38% less than their civilian counterparts. Even among those who are employed, many are working in roles that do not align with their education, skills, or career aspirations.

These outcomes are not the result of a lack of ambition or capability. They are driven by structural challenges: frequent relocation (every two to three years, on average—signifcantly higher than their civilian counterparts), inconsistent access to professional networks, licensing barriers across state lines, and employer misconceptions about long-term retention. 

At Hire Heroes USA, we see these patterns firsthand. They show up in daily conversations with clients who are ready to work, qualified to contribute, and actively seeking opportunities that match their experience—but struggling to find them.

The Invisible Impact of Underemployment 

Unemployment is only part of the story. Working in roles that fall below one’s qualifications or earning potential carries its own set of consequences.

For military spouses, underemployment can mean stalled career progression and diminished earning power over decades. These impacts compound with each move, making it increasingly difficult to build momentum in a long-term career.

This effect extends beyond the individual. Reduced earning potential affects household financial stability, while the stress of career disruption can influence broader family dynamics. At scale, these challenges also have implications for military retention. Research shows that military spouses who are dissatisfied with military life are more than six times more likely to want their active-duty service members to separate. 

“Underemployment can be incredibly disheartening,” shared Brooke Creek, a military spouse and Donor Relations Specialist at Hire Heroes USA. “I knew my worth and potential, but I was often seen as a liability by employers, not an investment. Each relocation meant starting over in a new city. Military families make it work because we have to, but the financial strain of trying to provide for your household on a Junior Enlisted income and part-time, inconsistent work can be an obstacle that some cannot overcome, deciding to leave service sooner than they'd planned.”

The Education vs. Opportunity Gap 

“Military spouses are one of the most educated segments of the workforce,” says Kelly Kelly, Hire Heroes USA’s Serving Spouses Program Manager and military spouse. “In our 2025 data, over 64% held a bachelor’s degree or higher.”

However, education doesn’t always translate into opportunity, as there’s a persistent gap between qualifications and job placement. “The majority of hires were in administrative, customer service, or clerical roles,” Kelly continues. In addition to degrees, many military spouses also hold advanced certifications and specialized training across a range of industries. But frequent relocation, employment gaps, and licensing barriers are often misinterpreted by employers, and lead to clients accepting entry-level roles despite being qualified for mid- to senior-level positions. 

Roles that align with a military spouse’s experience are often out of reach due to location constraints, employer hesitation, or rigid hiring practices. “Degrees and certifications don’t always translate because the system still prioritizes linear career paths, something military spouses rarely have,” Kelly says. 

The Economic Case for Employment

When military spouses are fully employed, the benefits are immediate and measurable. Increased household income strengthens financial stability and contributes to local economies, particularly in communities with a strong military presence.

Closing the employment gap represents a significant economic opportunity. Highly-skilled job candidates who are currently underutilized could be contributing at a much higher level, driving productivity, innovation, and growth across industries.

This is not simply a workforce development issue. It’s an economic one.

What Employers Gain by Hiring Military Spouses 

For employers, hiring military spouses is a strategic advantage.

Military spouses bring a unique combination of skills gained from their day-to-day experiences dealing with change and uncertainty. They are experienced in navigating ambiguity, integrating quickly into new environments, and maintaining performance under pressure.

Cate Bastian, a military spouse and Senior Employer Success Specialist at Hire Heroes USA, says, “You get really good at quickly figuring things out. We are constantly navigating change—new cities, new jobs, rebuilding our network, finding community, and establishing a new normal—so adaptability just becomes second nature.”

Employers who create pathways for military spouse hiring often see strong outcomes in both performance and retention—particularly when roles offer flexibility and room for growth. “What I often hear from employers is how impressed they are with the work ethic and comfort with ambiguity that military spouses bring,” Bastian says. “Once organizations tap into this talent pool, it’s usually something they want to keep investing in.”

Rethinking Hiring Practices 

Despite this potential, traditional hiring systems often create barriers that unintentionally exclude military spouses. 

Bastian says this is one of the biggest challenges, and one she has personally experienced. “A lot of traditional hiring systems simply weren’t built with military spouses, or mobile talent more broadly, in mind, which means strong candidates are often screened out early,” she says. “Things like résumé gaps or multiple short-term roles can raise red flags on paper, even though they’re often the result of a PCS or family needs—not a lack of experience, capability, or commitment.”

Location limitations can also hinder military spouses’ progress, like when roles have in-office requirements, or if remote work isn’t available. 

However, Bastian says current changes in the workforce, such as skills-based hiring and flexible work structures, can be advantageous for military spouses. “Instead of focusing only on job titles or how long someone stayed in a role, employers are starting to look at what someone can actually do,” Bastian says. “That’s a big win for military spouses, who often bring diverse, transferable skills built across different roles, industries, and environments.”

Remote work and portable careers can also reduce the career disruption that negatively impacts military families. They provide necessary flexibility and economic certainty in times of change, such as moves, allowing military spouses to carry their work with them wherever they go. 

Small changes in perspective can open the door to a significant and largely untapped talent pool. “From what I’m seeing across our employer partners, the companies leaning into these shifts aren’t just supporting military spouses—they’re building stronger, more adaptable teams overall,” Bastian says. 

The Role of Organizations Like Hire Heroes USA

Organizations like Hire Heroes USA play a critical role in closing this gap. “Our Career Advisors help military spouses translate their experiences into language employers understand,” Kelly says. “That includes reframing non-linear career paths, volunteer work, and life experience into measurable, skills-based achievements.” 

Through personalized career coaching, military spouses learn to develop strong résumés, shape their experience for market demands, and confidently communicate what they bring to the table. “It’s about shifting the narrative from ‘gaps and disruption’ to ‘adaptability, resilience, and proven capability,’” Kelly adds. 

Just as importantly, employers are given a clearer understanding of the value this community brings—helping to align talent with opportunity in a more effective and intentional way.

From Appreciation to Action 

Military spouses are not an overlooked workforce because they lack visibility. They are hidden because the systems designed to support employment have not fully adapted to include them.

The talent is there. The capability is proven. The opportunity lies in recognizing both, and acting on it. During Military Appreciation Month, employers have a chance to move beyond acknowledgment and toward meaningful engagement. 

“Military spouses just get things done. Employers should embrace these highly resilient, adaptable, and educated talent pools when they're looking for workers,” Creek says. “Military spouses have the capability to make companies stronger, more versatile, and should be recognized for it. When military spouses are hired, employers are not only supporting our military families, but strengthening the community as a whole.” 


The post The Hidden Workforce Reconsidered: Why Military Spouse Talent Is Too Valuable to Overlook appeared first on Hire Heroes USA and is written by Cara McCann.

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The Power of Service: Celebrating Volunteers During Global Volunteer Month https://www.hireheroesusa.org/celebrating-global-volunteer-month/ Tue, 07 Apr 2026 20:14:26 +0000 https://www.hireheroesusa.org/?p=24143 Hire Heroes USA

The Power of Service: Celebrating Volunteers During Global Volunteer Month

Each April, Global Volunteer Month highlights those who dedicate their time and expertise to strengthening communities worldwide. At Hire Heroes USA, our volunteers are at the heart of our mission.

In 2025 alone, over 1,200 volunteers contributed 7,321 hours—providing one-on-one mentoring, career guidance, and encouragement to veterans and military spouses navigating career transition. This Global Volunteer Month, we celebrate their incredible impact and invite you to join the movement.

The post The Power of Service: Celebrating Volunteers During Global Volunteer Month appeared first on Hire Heroes USA and is written by Cara McCann.

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Hire Heroes USA

The Power of Service: Celebrating Volunteers During Global Volunteer Month

The Power of Service: Celebrating Volunteers During Global Volunteer Month

Global Volunteer month, which occurs annually in April, is a globally-recognized time to celebrate volunteers around the world who work hard to strengthen their communities and drive transformation. 

At Hire Heroes USA, our volunteers’ efforts are central to our mission, our clients, and our staff. Every résumé review, mentoring conversation, mock interview, and LinkedIn critique represents a moment where someone chose to give their time to help a veteran or military spouse move forward in their career journey. And that impact adds up. In 2025, 1,299 volunteers contributed 7,321 hours of their time to our mission.

Our volunteers come from a wide range of backgrounds and lived experiences. Some are veterans themselves. Others have veterans in their families. Several have no military connection but still want to support our mission. Each of them possesses a strong dedication and sense of responsibility to give back. 

Through their commitment, volunteers help ensure that those who’ve served have the tools, confidence, and connections they need to succeed in the civilian workforce.

The Many Ways Volunteers Support the Mission

Across the country, and often across time zones, our volunteers dedicate their skills to helping veterans and military spouses navigate one of the most significant chapters of their lives.

Some volunteers provide one-on-one industry-specific career mentoring. This includes supporting job seekers with mock interviews, LinkedIn profile reviews, salary negotiation tips, and networking guidance. The numbers speak for themselves, highlighting how crucial our volunteers’ efforts are to our clients’ success. In 2025, 5,954 requests for volunteer support were fulfilled, including 4,721 mentoring requests and 1,138 LinkedIn written feedback requests. 

Alumni volunteers mentor newly employed veterans through our Battle Buddies Program, which helps them navigate the early stages of civilian employment and adjust to new professional settings.

Our volunteers also represent Hire Heroes USA at local community events, serve as panelists during virtual events and webinars, contribute to advisory committees, and strengthen the organization through professional development and strategic guidance. 

Above all, our volunteers act as ambassadors for our mission. They share Hire Heroes USA’s impact and encourage others to support veterans and military spouses in their career transitions. Thanks to their hard work and commitment, 4,868 clients received direct support through the Volunteer Program in 2025. Furthermore, 2,790 clients secured employment after utilizing volunteer services.

Why Volunteers Choose to Give Back

For many Hire Heroes USA volunteers, supporting the mission is deeply personal.

Some were once clients themselves. Others have family ties to the military or simply feel a strong sense of gratitude for those who served.

Volunteer Kat shared her perspective on why she dedicates her time:

“I don't do this for the cred, I do it to give back. So many of our veterans suffer after serving… there's never a way to pay them back, so this is the very least I can do— to take some time out of my day and give that time to them.”

Jeremy describes his volunteer work as a continuation of service:

“Volunteering with Hire Heroes USA lets me support veterans and military spouses during a moment that can feel overwhelming and uncertain. It’s my way of continuing to serve, one person at a time.”

Together, volunteers bring empathy, industry insight, and encouragement to each interaction—often becoming a pivotal part of a client’s transition journey.

The Difference Volunteers Make for Clients

For veterans and military spouses navigating the civilian job market, the guidance of experienced professionals can make a significant difference.

Clients frequently share how volunteer mentors help them gain clarity and confidence during their job search.

Michael, Chief Warrant Officer 5 in the Marines, described the impact of his conversation with volunteer Heather Gray:

“Her insight, support, and clear guidance are making the transition far less intimidating and far more achievable.”

Amy, a military spouse, said her mentor Jennifer Wojick helped her approach the job search with greater focus and perspective.

“She was kind, approachable, and incredibly helpful. She helped put my job search into perspective and shared practical organizational tools that will help me stay focused and intentional.”

And for Heidi, Captain of the Air Force, a conversation with volunteer Keith Arney opened new possibilities:

“Very grateful to have made a connection to such a knowledgeable volunteer. Hire Heroes USA just continues to amaze me with the breadth of services it provides.”

In these conversations, the mission truly comes to life. 

Join the Movement This Global Volunteer Month

As we celebrate Global Volunteer Month, we invite our community to help expand this impact even further.

This year, we’re encouraging volunteers to share their stories through our Ambassador Toolkit, helping raise awareness about the power of volunteer service.

Tell us why you volunteer. Share your experience supporting veterans and military spouses. Encourage others to get involved—and don’t forget to tag us on social media so we can celebrate with you.

And in honor of the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States, Hire Heroes USA is partnering with America250 to help make this a record-setting year for volunteer service across the country.

Whether you’re an industry professional, veteran, military spouse, or supporter of the military community, volunteering with Hire Heroes USA is an opportunity to make a direct and meaningful difference.

Together, we can continue building a stronger support network for those who served. 

If you’re ready to make an impact, join us.

Visit hireheroesusa.org/volunteer to learn how you can get involved.


The post The Power of Service: Celebrating Volunteers During Global Volunteer Month appeared first on Hire Heroes USA and is written by Cara McCann.

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Top Jobs & Training Programs for April 2026 https://www.hireheroesusa.org/top-jobs-training-programs-april-2026/ Mon, 06 Apr 2026 19:17:35 +0000 https://www.hireheroesusa.org/?p=24138 Hire Heroes USA

Top Jobs & Training Programs for April 2026

Every month, Hire Heroes USA selects several job openings from our job board to highlight. These job openings are posted by partnered employers looking to hire veteran and military spouse talent.

The post Top Jobs & Training Programs for April 2026 appeared first on Hire Heroes USA and is written by Cara McCann.

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Hire Heroes USA

Top Jobs & Training Programs for April 2026

Top Jobs & Training Programs for April 2026

Every month, Hire Heroes USA selects several job openings from our job board to highlight. These job openings are posted by partnered employers looking to hire veteran and military spouse talent.

View jobs from our featured employer this month, NASCAR. Also, download the document below and check out several of our training partners.

Click here to download the newsletter.

The post Top Jobs & Training Programs for April 2026 appeared first on Hire Heroes USA and is written by Cara McCann.

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Volunteer Spotlight: Brian Kline https://www.hireheroesusa.org/volunteer-spotlight-brian-kline/ Mon, 09 Mar 2026 18:38:25 +0000 https://www.hireheroesusa.org/?p=24054 Hire Heroes USA

Volunteer Spotlight: Brian Kline

When Brian Kline found himself in between careers, a referral from a fellow veteran led him to volunteer with Hire Heroes USA. He hasn’t looked back since.

In this Volunteer Spotlight, Brian shares why networking matters, how his own professional expertise strengthens his volunteer sessions, and the unforgettable moment a veteran he coached landed her dream job. His story is a powerful reminder that service doesn’t end, it evolves.

The post Volunteer Spotlight: Brian Kline appeared first on Hire Heroes USA and is written by Hire Heroes USA.

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Hire Heroes USA

Volunteer Spotlight: Brian Kline

Volunteer Spotlight: Brian Kline

When a fellow veteran and friend who was volunteering with Hire Heroes USA recommended the organization to Brian Kline, he was at a transition point of his own. In between his second and third careers, he sought a meaningful way to give back. Volunteering felt like the right next step. What began as a simple referral quickly became a rewarding way to stay connected to the military community.

In his current professional role as an Assistant Director of Administration, Brian carries recruiting and hiring responsibilities, which naturally informs his volunteer work. Supporting veterans through mock interviews and career conversations helps him stay sharp on evolving HR trends and best practices. His professional expertise strengthens his volunteer sessions, and those sessions, in turn, deepen his understanding of today’s job market.

For Brian, the most rewarding part of volunteering is the interaction itself. Every conversation with a veteran brings a fresh perspective. While he hopes the guidance he provides is valuable, he often finds that he walks away recharged—sometimes even with new ideas or viewpoints he hadn’t previously considered. That mutual exchange of insight and experience is what keeps him coming back.

One interaction, in particular, stands out. Brian conducted a mock interview with a veteran who was highly qualified for a role she was pursuing but needed a confidence boost and guidance on answering a few key questions. Shortly after her real interview, she reached out on LinkedIn with exciting news: she got the job! Moments like that are hard to forget.

If he had to share just one piece of advice, it would be this: prioritize networking. Brian often reminds veterans that networking can feel uncomfortable at first, but it’s essential—not just for landing a job, but for long-term professional growth and advancement. Building and maintaining relationships can open doors long after the initial job search ends.

Brian believes everyone has unique qualities and opportunities to support veterans and military spouses in finding professional success. He closes every session the same way: with a heartfelt “thank you for your service” and an encouragement to “pay it forward” when they are in a position to help fellow veterans. To him, that lasting influence of service is powerful.

Through shared service, practical expertise, and a commitment to lifting others up, Brian Kline embodies the spirit of giving back. His dedication ensures that those who served continue moving confidently toward their next mission.

What Clients Say about Working with Brian:

“I really appreciate the feedback I got from Brian Kline. He was very understanding and clear with his recommendations. And we've established further connections through LinkedIn, so he's actively helping me grow my network. 5 stars!”

“This volunteer was extremely knowledgeable with a great deal of experience to back up his advice. He freely gave his time, even going beyond that which we scheduled, and for that I'm very thankful.”

“Brian did a great job asking industry specific questions and digging into my resume. It is clear that he spent time preparing beforehand. I found it especially helpful that he went through every single one of my answers and walked me through things that I did well and things I could improve upon.”

“I found Brian's input incredibly helpful. In fact, it was the most effective career transition preparation training I've undergone. Thank you!”


If you would like to make a difference in the lives of veterans and military spouses, please click here to learn more about volunteering with Hire Heroes USA.

The post Volunteer Spotlight: Brian Kline appeared first on Hire Heroes USA and is written by Hire Heroes USA.

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Top Jobs & Training Programs for March 2026 https://www.hireheroesusa.org/top-jobs-march-2026/ Mon, 09 Mar 2026 16:35:09 +0000 https://www.hireheroesusa.org/?p=24042 Hire Heroes USA

Top Jobs & Training Programs for March 2026

Every month, Hire Heroes USA selects several job openings from our job board to highlight. These job openings are posted by partnered employers looking to hire veteran and military spouse talent.

The post Top Jobs & Training Programs for March 2026 appeared first on Hire Heroes USA and is written by Cara McCann.

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Hire Heroes USA

Top Jobs & Training Programs for March 2026

Top Jobs & Training Programs for March 2026

Every month, Hire Heroes USA selects several job openings from our job board to highlight. These job openings are posted by partnered employers looking to hire veteran and military spouse talent.

View jobs from our featured employer this month, Northrop Grumman. Also, download the document below and check out several of our training partners.

Click here to download the newsletter.

The post Top Jobs & Training Programs for March 2026 appeared first on Hire Heroes USA and is written by Cara McCann.

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Defining Your Next Career Move Through SMART Goals https://www.hireheroesusa.org/career-move-smart-goals/ Thu, 05 Mar 2026 10:00:30 +0000 https://www.hireheroesusa.org/?p=23940 Hire Heroes USA

Defining Your Next Career Move Through SMART Goals

Career transitions are rarely linear, particularly for veterans, transitioning service members, and military spouses navigating major life changes. Hannah Cooper, Hire Heroes USA’s Mid-Atlantic Area Manager, explores how SMART goals can provide structure, focus, and forward momentum during an often overwhelming job search.

The post Defining Your Next Career Move Through SMART Goals appeared first on Hire Heroes USA and is written by Cara McCann.

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Hire Heroes USA

Defining Your Next Career Move Through SMART Goals

Defining Your Next Career Move Through SMART Goals


Career transitions are rarely linear. This is especially the case for veterans, transitioning service members, and military spouses navigating separation from service, relocation, or major life changes. Uncertainty and high emotional stakes can quickly turn a job search into an overwhelming experience. 

At Hire Heroes USA, our Career Advisors (formerly known as Transition Specialists) work one-on-one with clients to replace that overwhelm with clarity and forward motion. One of the most effective tools they use to do this is SMART goal setting.

Hannah Cooper, Hire Heroes USA’s Mid-Atlantic Area Manager, shares how SMART goals can provide job seekers with realistic and effective strategies in today's evolving market.

What Are SMART Goals?

The SMART goal framework was developed in 1981 by George T. Doran, former Director of Corporate Planning for Washington Water Power Company. Here’s what the acronym stands for:

  • Specific
  • Measurable
  • Achievable
  • Relevant
  • Time-bound

SMART goals are effective because they provide structure during moments when stress and the fear of the unknown loom highest. “My role is not to hand clients a checklist and wish them luck,” Cooper explained. “It’s to help them translate uncertainty into action, especially during transitions that are emotionally charged, time bound, and high stakes.”

Using SMART Goals During the Job Search 

When clients come to Hire Heroes USA feeling stuck, Cooper noted that motivation is rarely to blame. “The problem is usually scope,” she said. “The job search feels too big, vague, or personal to tackle all at once.” SMART goals allow for a narrower focus. 

Rather than starting with abstract intentions, Cooper encourages clients to identify one outcome that truly matters—such as creating a résumé that reflects their real value or securing interviews in a particular field. From there, these larger goals can be broken down into specific, measurable steps. 

“For example, instead of ‘apply to more jobs,’ a SMART goal becomes something like: ‘Submit five tailored applications per week to operations management roles within logistics or manufacturing, using targeted versions, over the next 30 days,’” Cooper shared.

Let’s break this goal down using the framework:

  • Specific: The goal clearly specifies applying to operations management roles within logistics or manufacturing, and tailoring applications. 
  • Measurable: The job seeker knows exactly what success looks like: five applications per week. This removes ambiguity and makes it possible to assess momentum objectively.
  • Achievable: The goal is realistic within a typical job seeker’s schedule, especially when broken into weekly actions. It accounts for the time required to tailor each application.
  • Relevant: Each application aligns with the job seeker’s target field and career direction. 
  • Time-Bound: The goal is anchored to a clear 30-day timeline. 

Using this method, Cooper explained, has an immediate impact by removing guesswork and fostering accountability. It also allows the job seeker to measure progress without tying their self-worth to employer responses. In the long run, these consistent efforts lead to more powerful results.

Keeping Achievable Goals During Stressful Transitions

Transitions are inherently stressful. Financial, familial, and time-related pressures can make even the most reasonable goals feel overwhelming. Cooper emphasized the importance of basing goals in reality.

“I keep goals realistic by anchoring them to three things,” she said. “The client’s available time and energy, the current state of the job market in their target field, and what is already on their plate outside the job search.”

A job seeker’s goals must reflect any current circumstances in their life, such as working full time or juggling caretaking responsibilities. “A smaller, consistently executed goal is far more effective than an aggressive plan that leads to burnout,” Cooper noted.

She also prioritizes regular review points with clients. For instance, if a goal no longer feels achievable, then they adjust it without judgment. This approach helps job seekers remain engaged and confident, even when circumstances shift.

Balancing Long-Term Visions with Short-Term Realities

Many job seekers have an idea of future goals and dreams, whether it’s related to their professional roles, economic mobility, or personal lives. However, these long-term visions can feel too far-off when there’s a more immediate need to find work. Cooper helps clients bridge that gap by separating direction from destination.

“Long-term aspirations inform the direction of the job search,” she explained. “Short-term SMART goals create movement in that direction.”

For example, a job seeker may have a long-term goal of becoming a software engineer. Rather than pursuing that role immediately, their short-term SMART goals might include: 

  • Securing a technical support or analyst position
  • Completing a defined set of coding projects within a specific timeframe
  • Building relationships with professionals already working in engineering roles

“We talk openly about stepping stones,” Cooper said. “Short-term goals are not a compromise if they are intentional. They are part of the strategy.”

Cooper’s approach keeps job seekers grounded in their present reality, preventing them from chasing a dream position that’s not yet feasible or accepting a role that puts short-term needs at the forefront. This sets job seekers up for achieving the future success they desire. 

“SMART goals allow us to hold both timelines at once,” Cooper added.

Staying Adaptable and Goal-Oriented in an Evolving Job Market

The job market is constantly shifting, as job titles change, requirements evolve, and hiring processes become more complex. Job seekers can feel like they need to frequently adapt, and this can come with its own pressures. 

Cooper’s guidance remains steady: “Adapt the tactics, not the purpose.”

Cooper regularly revisits goals with clients, which gives them the chance to determine what’s working and what isn’t. If applications aren’t leading to interviews, they review résumé alignment, targeting, and networking strategies. If interviews aren’t converting to offers, they focus on preparation, storytelling, and confidence.

“At the same time, we keep the long-term goal visible,” Cooper explained. “That anchor prevents reactive decisions driven by fear or frustration.”

She also reminds job seekers to understand what aligns with their skills, core values, and long-term vision. “SMART goals provide the structure to make adjustments without losing that alignment,” she said.

Conclusion

Career trajectories for veterans, transitioning service members, and military spouses rarely hinge on a single decision or perfect opportunity. More often, they are shaped by the steady accumulation of small, intentional actions taken amid relocation, family considerations, and the shift from military to civilian systems. In a job market defined by change and uncertainty, progress depends on having a clear framework to guide decisions and measure momentum.

SMART goals provide that framework. When applied thoughtfully, they help job seekers move forward with purpose, evaluate progress without unnecessary self-doubt, and adjust course as needed without losing sight of long-term career direction. This approach supports not just forward movement, but allows confidence and resilience to develop.


The post Defining Your Next Career Move Through SMART Goals appeared first on Hire Heroes USA and is written by Cara McCann.

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Top Jobs & Training Programs for February 2026 https://www.hireheroesusa.org/top-jobs-training-programs-for-february-2026/ Mon, 02 Feb 2026 23:26:53 +0000 https://www.hireheroesusa.org/?p=23634 Hire Heroes USA

Top Jobs & Training Programs for February 2026

Every month, Hire Heroes USA selects several job openings from our job board to highlight. These job openings are posted by partnered employers looking to hire veteran and military spouse talent.

The post Top Jobs & Training Programs for February 2026 appeared first on Hire Heroes USA and is written by Cara McCann.

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Hire Heroes USA

Top Jobs & Training Programs for February 2026

Top Jobs & Training Programs for February 2026

Every month, Hire Heroes USA selects several job openings from our job board to highlight. These job openings are posted by partnered employers looking to hire veteran and military spouse talent.

View jobs from our featured employer this month, TJX. Also, download the document below and check out several of our training partners.

Click here to download the newsletter.

The post Top Jobs & Training Programs for February 2026 appeared first on Hire Heroes USA and is written by Cara McCann.

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Top Jobs & Training Programs for January 2026 https://www.hireheroesusa.org/top-jobs-training-programs-for-january-2026/ Mon, 05 Jan 2026 21:16:23 +0000 https://www.hireheroesusa.org/?p=23510 Hire Heroes USA

Top Jobs & Training Programs for January 2026

Every month, Hire Heroes USA selects several job openings from our job board to highlight. These job openings are posted by partnered employers looking to hire veteran and military spouse talent.

The post Top Jobs & Training Programs for January 2026 appeared first on Hire Heroes USA and is written by Cara McCann.

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Hire Heroes USA

Top Jobs & Training Programs for January 2026

Top Jobs & Training Programs for January 2026

Every month, Hire Heroes USA selects several job openings from our job board to highlight. These job openings are posted by partnered employers looking to hire veteran and military spouse talent.

View jobs from our featured employer this month, Wells Fargo. Also, download the document below and check out several of our training partners.

Click here to download the newsletter.

The post Top Jobs & Training Programs for January 2026 appeared first on Hire Heroes USA and is written by Cara McCann.

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