Capitol News

Michigan’s Veterans’ Employment Services (VES), a program within the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO), supported more than 6,500 veterans and their spouses with employment and training resources in 2024. The initiative, which is run by veterans for veterans, focuses on helping service members and their families transition into civilian careers.

VES staff work across Michigan to meet with veterans and transitioning service members who are seeking new career opportunities but may be unfamiliar with the civilian job market. The program offers personalized support from advisors who have military experience themselves, providing guidance through the challenges that come with moving from military to civilian life.

“Michigan’s veterans have already shown incredible dedication to serving their country. Now, our responsibility is to serve them just as fully when they come home,” said Stephanie Beckhorn, Deputy Director of LEO’s Office of Employment and Training. “Veterans’ Employment Services honors that commitment by ensuring every veteran has the opportunity to build a meaningful career and continue contributing their leadership and skills to our state’s future. When veterans thrive, Michigan thrives.”

Through partnerships with the Michigan Works! network, VES provides statewide access to career counseling, resume assistance, interview preparation, training programs, and employer connections. The program also helps participants identify transferable skills suited for high-demand fields such as construction, manufacturing, information technology, and public service.

Carrie Headworth, an LEO Veterans’ Career Advisor who served in the Air Force, uses her own experiences to guide other veterans through their transitions. “Leaving the military can feel like starting over from scratch,” said Headworth. “I’ve been there, and I know how overwhelming it can be. Through Veterans’ Employment Services, I help veterans see that the skills, discipline and resilience they developed in service are exactly what they need to succeed in the next chapter of their lives.”

The team includes both Veterans’ Career Advisors and Local Veterans’ Employment Representatives who share similar backgrounds with those they assist. This shared experience fosters trust between staff and clients throughout each step of the process.

Local Veterans' Employment Representatives also work directly with employers across Michigan to highlight the advantages of hiring former service members. They promote veteran employment among business groups while advocating for job seekers within various industries.

“Veterans’ Employment Services is a model for how we build an inclusive, opportunity-driven workforce,” said Krista Johnson, Director of LEO Workforce Development. “Because the program is led by veterans, it’s grounded in understanding. Our team knows firsthand what it means to transition from service to civilian life and they’re helping fellow veterans and transitioning service members turn that experience into purpose and long-term success.”

Collaboration between VES and organizations such as the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency ensures participants can access not only job support but also education benefits, housing resources, and healthcare services.

“After more than two decades in the Air Force, I know how challenging it can be to build a new life after service,” said Pat Muoio, LEO Local Veterans’ Employment Representative. “That’s why Veterans’ Employment Services means so much to me. It’s run by people who have walked the same path and understand the obstacles. When we help a veteran find a meaningful career, we’re giving them back a sense of stability and belonging.”

The efforts align with Michigan's Statewide Workforce Plan—a broader strategy aimed at creating an inclusive workforce environment—and reflect ongoing commitments toward economic opportunity for all residents.

Data from a recent report by the Michigan Center for Data and Analytics indicates that veterans comprise over five percent of Michigan's population; on average they earn about $10,000 more annually than nonveterans. In addition,the number of new veteran Registered Apprentices grew by approximately 20% last year, supporting pathways into higher-wage careers.

More information about available services can be found at Michigan.gov/VES or through local Michigan Works! Service Centers.