Ohio Officials Encourage Employers to Consider Veterans

COLUMBUS, Ohio – November is Hire-a-Veteran Month, and state officials are encouraging employers to consider veterans when growing their workforces.

“Our Ohio veterans have selflessly served our state and nation to protect our freedoms and keep us safe, and they bring that same level of dedication to the workplace,” Gov. Mike DeWine said. “During Hire-a-Veteran Month this November, I challenge Ohio business leaders to seek opportunities to add these highly skilled, passionate and adaptable employees to their team.”

Ohio is home to nearly 700,000 veterans and service members, the sixth-largest population in the nation. The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services oversees OhioMeansJobs.com and the state’s OhioMeansJobs Centers, which offer priority of service to veterans and their spouses. More than 8,300 Ohio employers are listed on the Military-Friendly Employer Registry at OhioMeansJobs.com. A new interactive map makes it easier to search for employers in the registry by county, ZIP code, industry and employer name. To view the registry, click on “For Job Seekers” and then “Military Service.”

“If you want to thank a veteran, hire one,” Lt. Gov. Jon Husted said. “Veterans bring unparalleled skills, dedication and leadership to the workforce. Their commitment to teamwork, resilience and mission-driven focus make them invaluable employees who strengthen any organization they join.”

On OhioMeansJobs.com, the resumes of veterans are designated with a red and blue “V,” and the resumes of military spouses are designated with a red and blue “S,” to make them stand out to military-friendly employers. ODJFS also offers incentives, through the federal Work Opportunity Tax Credit program and On-the-Job Training program, for employers who hire veterans.

“ODJFS is committed to helping connect employers with great veteran candidates,” said Matt Damschroder, ODJFS director. “Both veterans and employers can use the self-service features at OhioMeansJobs.com or visit their local OhioMeansJobs Center for one-on-one assistance. At either the website or the centers, veterans can get help translating their military skills for a civilian resume. Ohio also offers free employment services to the spouses of military members, whose transfers can present challenges.”

Published by The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.