TAMPA, Fla. — Several people in the Tampa Bay area transitioning from military service to civilian life got a huge boost recently when it came to landing a new job.
At the Tampa Convention Center, a massive hiring event focused on military veterans, their spouses and dependents. Bryce Barnes, who spent eight years in the Army was among those looking for a new career.
“Something that I can show my expertise and move up,” Barnes said. “And show what I can actually do.”
The transition from military to civilian life isn't always an easy one.
For many veterans, the structure and discipline of the armed services — or perhaps even a traumatic experience — can make it a difficult adjustment.
“And sometimes it’s hard to have your military job transition over to civilian life and civilian workforce,” Barnes said.
That's why this particular job fair was so critically important. It was specifically designed to pair veterans with employers who understand those challenges and often look for the training and discipline these job candidates obtained during their military service.
“They are always on time. Always professional. They understand teamwork. And they’re very mission-focused,” said Cassandra Glubzinski, a recruiter with John Deere. “They want to get the job done and do it right.”
And while many possess valuable technical skills, some veterans may not yet have honed the personal skills that could make the difference.
“They can learn the job, but what we try to tell them is that companies hire who they like. And we can’t teach you personality,” said Chris Stevens, Senior VP at Recruit Military, who put on the hiring event. “So, if you’re introverted come out of your shell a little bit.”
Historically, veteran unemployment rates have been significantly higher than the rest of the population but recently, they've been about the same.
Close to a million vets were out of work at the beginning of the pandemic, but that number is now below 200,000 — thanks in large part to these sorts of events.
“At first, I was kind of iffy,” said Barnes as he canvassed the room. “But coming here today and seeing how it is, I’m very confident.”
For those unable to take advantage of Thursday's hiring event, organizers say there will be more coming, including a virtual career fair online on Feb. 13.
To learn more about that visit www.recruitmilitary.com.