Veterans are among the most disciplined, resourceful and dedicated professionals in the job market. Their military service has equipped them with a range of valuable leadership and technical skills, including problem-solving, learning agility, resiliency and teamwork. They have served at the highest levels of government, led Fortune 500 companies, and are a critical portion of the economy as small-business owners and operators.

Moreover, many veterans possess specialized training in areas like technology, logistics, engineering and health care, which are highly transferable skills, and in high demand. These examples underscore the vast potential veterans hold when transitioning to civilian careers. Veterans carry this service mindset into their communities, volunteering at high rates, participating in sports and youth development, all while creating value as employees and leaders.

Yet, the transition from military service to civilian employment remains a significant challenge for many veterans and their families.

At Mission Roll Call (where co-author Jim Whaley is CEO) and Hire Heroes USA (where co-author Ross Dickman is CEO), we witness firsthand the value veterans bring, as both organizations are led by veterans, employ numerous veteran staff members and have boards of directors composed of veteran leaders. These individuals not only advocate for their fellow veterans but also serve as living examples of the success that can be achieved with the right support and opportunities. Our organizations are committed to helping veterans and their families navigate the transition from military to civilian life, recognizing that this journey impacts not just the service members but also their loved ones.

According to Military OneSource, more than 400,000 service members undergo a permanent change of station each year. On average, they move every three years, nearly four times more frequently than civilian families. These frequent relocations result in interruptions to the daily lives of the spouses and children, including relationships, job opportunities, and adjustments to new social environments. This broader impact underscores the importance of ensuring that veterans find fulfilling and stable employment, as the well-being of the whole family is interconnected with the success of the veteran’s transition. It is crucial for our government and business leaders to recognize and support this transition, as it directly affects the resilience and quality of life of veteran families.

Currently, around 200,000 service members enter the civilian job market annually, yet the reality of the need is much larger. This number does not account for unemployed or underemployed veterans and military spouses. A Penn State study revealed that three years post-separation, 61% of veterans reported being underemployed, a figure that remains alarmingly high at 59% even after 6.5 years. This underemployment is often due to a mismatch between veterans’ skills, education or experiences and the available roles in the civilian job market.

Mission Roll Call’s recent polling data shows that 73% of veterans accepted a job that was available rather than one they were passionate about. This trend is concerning, as it highlights the need for better alignment between veterans’ career aspirations and the opportunities available to them. Additionally, nearly half of the veterans leave their first civilian job within a year and about 80% do so within two years. This high turnover rate indicates a broader issue of job dissatisfaction and underutilization of skills.

To address these challenges, we must advocate for stronger support systems and initiatives that not only recognize the unique skills and experiences veterans bring but also actively work to remove barriers that hinder their success, such as inadequate housing and justice system involvement. The government and private sector have a shared responsibility to create an environment where veterans can continue to serve their country through meaningful employment. This means investing in training programs that bridge the gap between military and civilian skills, providing mentorship opportunities, and promoting a workplace culture that values the service and sacrifice our veterans have made.

The positive work already being done in this area serves as a foundation for further action. By building on these efforts, we can ensure that veterans are not only welcomed into the civilian workforce but are also given the tools and opportunities to thrive. Our veterans have already demonstrated their commitment and resilience. Now it’s our turn to ensure they have the platform to continue making significant contributions in their post-military careers.

We call on government leaders to continue to recognize the urgency of this issue and to take immediate action. It is critical to address the employment challenges faced by veterans and their families, as this is not just a matter of economic stability but also of national importance. The insights and experiences shared by veterans and their families with Mission Roll Call and Hire Heroes USA make it clear: This is a top priority.

Our veterans have given so much to our country. Now it’s time for our leaders to provide the support they need to transition successfully and build fulfilling lives in their civilian careers. The transition programs currently offered by the Department of Defense fall short of addressing the full spectrum of needs faced by those actively transitioning and beyond. We urge our government and business leaders to respond to this call with the commitment and resources necessary to truly honor the service of our veterans and their families. The Business Roundtable, Chamber of Commerce and industry leaders should set ambitious goals to hire at least 10% of their new workforce from the veteran community. Moreover, DOD and policymakers must recognize that the success of veterans is a key indicator of our nation’s ability to recruit and retain future service members.

Jim Whaley is the CEO of Mission Roll Call (missionrollcall.org), an organization committed to amplifying the voices of veterans and their families. He is the former director of communications at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. As a 20-year veteran of the Army, his awards and decorations include the Master Army Aviator Badge, Legion of Merit, Air Assault Badge and Humanitarian Service Medal.

Ross Dickman is the CEO of Hire Heroes USA (www.hireheroesusa.org), a national nonprofit focusing on meaningful employment for military families. Hire Heroes USA provides career coaching, job search assistance and resources to veterans, military spouses and transitioning servicemembers.