We are going to take on a very special topic in this episode. The issues our Ohio veterans face each day.  

We are honoring Veterans’ Day and with us today is a wonderful guest. Ryan Blackburn, the Manager of Veteran Workforce Development for the Ohio Department of Veteran’s Services.

Ryan starts with an overview of his background and the role of the Ohio Department of Veterans Services (ohiovets.gov).

The state of Ohio has nearly 900,000 veterans in Ohio, the 6th highest number of veterans in the U.S.! And as these veterans enter to the workforce, they look to Veteran's Services for help, specifically the Veterans Workforce Team. Ryan gives us an overview of the goals for the team, and changes they have enacted, particularly during the pandemic.

There is a strong partnership with OhioMeansJobs and Veteran’s Services. The “Military Service Career Center” provides services to both veterans, as well as employers.

Another great resource for veterans is the Ohio Small Business Development Center and 1st Stop Business program to help vets create their own entrepreneurial opportunity! Vets can take advantage of guidance on opening their own small business, finding capital to fund a business, or mentorships and technical expertise they may need to operate a successful small business.

The Veterans Workforce Team partners with employers in their search for qualified candidates. It can be very difficult to understand the skills and experiences of veterans, particularly if the employer or the HR representatives have never served. A disconnect can occur. The Workforce Team prepare employers, presents what services or training is available, and funding for hiring vets.

The VRRAP – The Veteran Rapid Retraining Assistance Program - offers education and training in high-demand jobs. Ryan provides the details on what job categories are included, how do vets apply for the program and how the training occurs.

And remember, regardless of where a vet lives in Ohio, there is a county office available to veterans, their families and friends looking to get the helped needed for a veteran.

We want to wish all of our veterans a very healthy and safe Veterans’ Day!

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Recorded in Studio C at 511 Studios. A production of Circle270Media Podcast Consultants.