Members of the U.S. military returning from deployments or transitioning from active duty to civilian careers can face unique challenges in finding family-sustaining employment. As a U.S. Navy veteran who completed several combat search and rescue deployments to Southeast Asia and the Middle East, I personally know the transition from military to civilian life can be challenging, but it is also an opportunity for growth and new beginnings.

DEED's 17 Veterans Employment Services staff members are veterans helping veterans. We represent service across all branches of the U.S. military: Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines and Coast Guard. While we all come from different backgrounds, we are united in service to our country and fellow veterans.

We understand what it's like to serve in the armed forces and can help current and former members of the military and their spouses prepare for and find work. It can be a big culture shift moving from military to civilian life and challenging to translate skills developed during military service to civilian careers.

This service to fellow veterans looking for work takes on new importance now, considering the federal government's ongoing efforts to lay off workers. Roughly one-third of federal employees are veterans or spouses of veterans. The national unemployment rate for veterans stands at 3.8%, up from 3% a year earlier.

Many Minnesota employers know the benefits of hiring veterans, who bring unique job-specific skills as well as in-demand soft skills like leadership, teamwork, responsibility and accountability to the workplace. To help raise awareness among more employers about all veterans bring to the workplace, Governor Walz has proclaimed the month of May as Hire a Veteran Month in Minnesota.

One of the events taking place during Hire a Veteran Month is the 19th Annual Veterans Career Fair, featuring more than 100 employers and service providers offering full-time jobs paying family-sustaining wages with benefits. DEED's Veterans Career Fair is part of a broader effort to help Minnesota veterans find meaningful, family-sustaining careers.

• Veterans can find out more about how military experience translates to civilian careers, engage in career exploration and get job search assistance through CareerForce Veterans Employment Services.
• Employers can find out more about the benefits of hiring veterans, how to connect with veterans looking for work and more by contacting their regional Veterans Employment Representative.
• Veterans, their spouses and caregivers and Gold Star families are invited to the 19th Annual Veterans Career Fair on Wednesday, May 21 from 2-6 p.m. at the Heritage Center of Brooklyn Center. View details and a list of participating employers.