Many returning veterans are learning that skills
obtained in the military do not always lead to jobs without licensing
and certification.
More than 27 percent of veterans ages 20 to 24 are unemployed, said Sen. Patty Murray, (D-Wash.)
“That is over one in five of our nation’s heroes
who cannot find a job to support their family, do not have an income
that provides stability and do not have work that provides them with the
self-esteem and pride that is so critical to their transition home.”
At a hearning on the problem recently in
Washington, Sen. Richard Burr (R-NC.) said the federal government has
programs to help veterans find jobs, but maybe too many.
There are 47 separate programs run by nine federal agencies at a combined cost of $18 billion, he said.
Raymond Jefferson, assistant labor secretary for
veterans, employment and training, said an overhaul is under way of the
Transition Assistance Program classes and workshops that are supposed to
prepare separating service members for a civilian jobs.
Jefferson acknowledged much of the information
provided in TAP classes is “outdated” and not tailored to the individual
needs of participants.
“There is no customization to an individual’s needs or readiness for employment,” he said.
– Chicago Sun-Times
English 
Spanish