Military Spouse Career Accelerator Pilot Program Replaced

UPDATE June 23 2026: According to the official site, “Military spouses have an opportunity to jump-start their career with 12-week paid fellowships through the SpouseWorks Fellowship (formerly the Career Accelerator). The initiative places eligible spouses with employers across industries throughout the country.” SpouseWorks is now the brand for this initiative and for others, including MyCAA and related programs.

The article below is preserved here for archival purposes.

Career Accelerator Program for Military Spouses

Service members tend to move every 2-4 years, making it difficult for military spouses to find the right career and job. According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, the military spouse unemployment rate can run as high as 22%. The DoD is trying to help via a pilot program called the Military Spouse Career Accelerator program to help military spouses find jobs.

The Career Accelerator program was scheduled to operate until December 2025. At press time, there is no replacement program information available.

What Was the Military Spouse Career Accelerator Program?

The Military Spouse Career Accelerator program provided spouses of currently serving members of the military paid fellowships at civilian employers across various industries and locations. 

The program is open to spouses of the following military members: 

• Army
• Navy
• Marine Corps
• Air Force
• Space Force
• Reserve
• National Guard

The DoD’s Taking Care of Our People Directive

This program addressed the DoD’s Taking Care of Our People directive, which expands spousal employment. In addition, the program supports the Spouse Education and Career Opportunities (SECO) programs, whose overall goal is to provide tools, resources, and information to help spouses find meaningful career opportunities. 

The department partnered with Hiring Our Heroes to provide robust and meaningful fellowship placements that could lead to full-time employment. Military spouses have made it clear that meaningful employment is essential to their quality of life. We hope this program provides them a strong start to solid employment opportunities,” according to Patricia Montes Barron, deputy assistant secretary of defense for military community and family policy. 

How Did the Career Accelerator Program Work?

The program was 12 weeks long and free for employers and military spouses. Military spouses will be placed with host companies that match their location, work experience, and other factors. They will also receive in-person or professional training and mentoring.

How Do I Apply for the Military Spouse Career Accelerator Program?

You can’t, as the program has been replaced. Learn more through SpouseWorks/MySECO.

What Was In It for Employers?

Employers who signed up for this program benefited from early access to a diverse, highly skilled, and educated workforce. It was a free opportunity for them to connect directly with military spouses and gain recognition opportunities through promotional activities and social media engagement.

 

RELATED:

• Step-by-Step Guide to Employment for Military Spouses
• Free Six Sigma Courses for Military Spouses
• Military Spouse Career Accelerator Program