Pandemic affects transition from military to civilian life

A transition from military life into civilian can already be quite difficult. But during the pandemic, that transition can be a bit more stressful according to Jen Hadac, Vice President of employment services at Recruit Military.

Hadac says in December of 2019 the national veterans' unemployment number was at 3.1 percent, that number is now 6.3 percent.

According to Pikes Peak Workforce, at Fort Carson the transition assistance program sees about 400 service members monthly transitioning from military to civilian. With the current state of this pandemic, it's all gone virtual.

Programs in the area continue to help veterans transition during this time like Prep Connect 360 and Pikes Peak Workforce, just to name a few. According to Paul Price with Mt. Carmel Veterans Service Center, this year the center has seen a 30 percent increase in veterans needing help with utilities, rent, food, medical and car. This is why it is important to stress programs that are helping military personnel find work.

Prep Connect 360 is the bridge gap between military and civilian life. They work with transitioning active military personnel, veterans and military spouses. For instance, through interview workshops, providing important resources and networking opportunities. Now for the most part, this is done virtually.

“A lot of companies due to the covid now are doing the zoom interviews, so it is similar to the same thing, only difference is you’re not sitting in the chair in front of the hiring manager, you’re doing it over zoom," added Mark Smith, peer navigator with Mt. Carmel Veterans Service Center.

Traci Marques, CEO and executive director of Pikes Peak Force says in the El Paso and Teller County there are about 10-thousand jobs open. Marques believes it is all in the networking. Pikes Peak also offers networking workshops. For more information head on over to their website: Pikes Peak.