Rep. Frye: Indiana's Workforce Needs Our Vets

With Indiana's NextLevelJobs.com, veterans can apply for Workforce Ready Grants to cover tuition costs.

INDIANAPOLIS - Veterans Day is an important time for us to come together as a nation to recognize the thousands of veterans who served in the United States Armed Forces, protecting our country while dedicating their time and skills to securing the freedoms we enjoy today. The end of their military service does not mean the end of their careers, as the expertise they gained and their training can be of great use back home.

In Indiana, we know military-veteran employees possess important skills and tools beneficial to the civilian workforce, and offer resources to help connect veteran jobseekers with Hoosier employers in high-demand industries.  

Indiana's Department of Workforce Development makes it easy for Hoosiers to find out which jobs are in demand and expected to grow over the next 10 years. At INDemandJobs.com, veterans can learn about industries experiencing significant growth, both in the number of hires and in rising wages. Career options, from computer systems analysts to ag equipment operators, are sorted using average salary, educational requirements and overall demand. Veterans can also visit in.gov/dwd for additional training incentives and grants, guidance finding vocational training, direct referrals to jobs and job development programs, and to view Indiana Career Connect for job openings.

With Indiana's NextLevelJobs.com, veterans can apply for Workforce Ready Grants to cover tuition costs to earn an eligible, high-value certificate from Ivy Tech Community College or Vincennes in order to land a higher-paying position requiring specific skills. Already, more than 50,000 Indiana residents enrolled in free training through this program, and participants can continue to work while earning their certificate.

Another great tool for veterans looking for employment is INvets, a nonprofit organization finding in-demand jobs for former service members. At INvets.org, users can explore and apply to different industries looking for skilled employees in Indiana. INvets also shows different career pathways in local counties, such as industrial maintenance, production and registered nursing in Jefferson County. INvets can be used for more than just employment opportunities.

Leadership, communication and mathematical skills are all assets veterans bring to the civilian workforce, helping them stand out in applications and resumes. To ensure former service members showcase all they have to offer, WorkOne, a state-run workforce development program, offers on-site assistance in preparing for interviews and writing resumes, as well as information on veterans' rights and benefits. Locations can be found at in.gov/dwd.

Beyond these resources, Helping Veterans and Families of Indiana offers programs to connect former service members to additional job opportunities. This organization has a team of employment specialists offering one-on-one assistance prepping for interviews, creating resumes and credit workshops. Additionally, Hoosiers can participate in an earn and learn three-phase program called VetWorks to help increase veterans earning potential while getting on-the-job training. To learn more and get involved, visit hvafofindiana.org.

The Military Family Relief Fund is another helpful resource offering emergency grants to military families struggling to pay for certain necessities, such as food, utilities, medical expenses and transportation needs. Veterans in need can also apply for the Operation Holiday Program, potentially receiving $300 per dependent child in the household and $200 per home for a holiday meal. Applicants can apply online at in.gov/dva.

For our veteran service members, we thank you for protecting our freedoms and our country. Please reach out to me at h67@iga.in.gov or call 317-234-9450 if you need further assistance as you work to utilize your military skills and training in the civilian workforce.