Military Spouse Career Accelerator Pilot Program

Career Accelerator Program for Military Spouses

We all know military service members tend to move every 2-4 years. This makes finding the right career and the right job difficult for the military spouse. According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, the military spouse unemployment rate is as high as 22%. The DoD has now introduced a new program called the Military Spouse Career Accelerator program to help military spouses find jobs.

What Is the Military Spouse Career Accelerator Program?

The Military Spouse Career Accelerator program provides 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 addresses 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 the tools, resources, and information in order to help spouses in finding meaningful career opportunities. 

“The department has partnered with Hiring Our Heroes to provide robust and meaningful fellowship placement 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,” stated Patricia Montes Barron, the deputy assistant secretary of defense for military community and family policy. 

According to Military Times, more than 800 spouses have already started applying, and 500 of them have completed the process. 25 employers have also registered to participate in the program. As you can see, the Military Spouse Career Accelerator Pilot program is off to a good start. 

How Does the Career Accelerator Program Work?

The program is 12 weeks long and free for both employers and military spouses. A military spouse will be placed with host companies that match their location and work experience as well as other factors. The spouses will receive in-person or professional training and mentoring.

The program will run for three years, and applications will be accepted throughout the length of the program. There will be new opportunities each month.

When Does This Program Start?

The program has started, and January 2023 is the first month.

Can You Get a Long-term Job from the Program?

Yes, spouses who excel in the program may be invited to join the host company. If you do a good job, the company can keep you on as a direct hire. It is, however, not a guarantee that you will be hired.

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

To apply for the Military Spouse Career Accelerator Pilot program, head over to MySECO. When you apply, they will determine your eligibility, and if you are eligible, you will be able to move forward. If you are not accepted, you will be connected with a SECO career coach to become career ready.

What Is In It for Employers?

Employers who sign up for this program benefit from having early access to a diverse, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. It is a free opportunity for them to connect directly to military spouses and gain recognition opportunities through promotional activities and social media engagement. Employers will also be able to find new individuals to add to their company.

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• Military Spouse Career Accelerator Program