Abstract Book of the 6th International Conference on Research in Human Resource Management
Year: 2025
[PDF]
Mission Civilian Employment: Decoding Effective Veteran Transition Programs
Courtney Nicotra, James E. Bartlett II
ABSTRACT:
This integrative review evaluates the impact of U.S. veteran transition programs on employment success and workforce integration, with a focus on implications for human resources (HR) professionals. Each year, approximately 200,000 veterans transition to civilian life, navigating significant challenges despite overall low unemployment rates. This review analyzes 36 sources from 2014 to 2024, aiming to identify key program components, successful strategies, and reliable methods for evaluating outcomes. Five core competencies were identified as essential to veteran transition programs: skill translation, job search strategies, workplace adaptation, financial planning, and access to transition support services. Effective strategies include peer mentorship initiatives and employer education programs that recognize military leadership and enhance military to civilian job translation. Success is measured using a combination of quantitative metrics (employment and retention rates), qualitative feedback (veteran interviews and focus groups), and tools, such as the Empowered Veteran Index (EVI). The findings emphasize the vital role HR professionals play when it comes to the veteran population, program designing, and ensuring successful integration into civilian life. HR strategies should prioritize mentorship, veteran-focused onboarding, and programs that address veterans’ diverse needs. This review highlights the necessity for HRdriven initiatives to foster inclusive workplace cultures and improve veterans’ long-term career outcomes, strengthening organizational performance and utilizing veteran talent.
Keywords: military, reintegration, transition, veterans, workplace