The U.S. unemployment rate continues to increase even years after the pandemic hit. More veterans, in particular, are bearing the load of an economy that is not only still adjusting after the massive global pause but also from the shifts in business priorities. Today, the business and labor markets remain challenged to overcome previous struggles while trying to adjust and adapt to new opportunities and trends.
Veteran Unemployment Statistics
The Bureau of Labor Statistics report on veteran employment reveals that the veteran unemployment rate rose by 2.8% from July 2023 to 3.6% in August 2023. This is also up by 2.4% from the same period in 2022. While the overall numbers have been down from the high unemployment rates during the peak of the pandemic, any increase is still concerning.
The increase in jobless numbers does not discriminate by gender or age. The same BLS report shows an unemployment rate of 2.7% for male veterans from September 2022 to August 2023, while the jobless rate for female veterans is at a close 2.8%.
In terms of ethnicity and race, White Veterans posted an unemployment rate of 2.6%, Black Veterans 2.9%, Asian Veterans 3.4%, and Hispanic or Latino Veterans 2.8%.
2025 Job Trends
Now, what does this all mean? This indicates that the economy is still not able to fully recover from the impact of the pandemic and that veterans are among those who are struggling to find employment after their military careers. While businesses have been slowly opening and rehiring, there is still a significant gap in available skilled jobs compared to pre-pandemic levels.
Moreover, the job market has also shifted towards more remote work opportunities. While this may be beneficial for some job seekers, it can also present challenges for older veterans who may have difficulty adjusting to a new work environment or lack access to necessary technology.
Furthermore, the pandemic highlighted the need for re-skilling and up-skilling in order to stay competitive in the job market. This is especially important for veterans as they transition from military service to civilian life. Many veterans possess valuable skills and experience from military training but may need support in translating them to applicable job opportunities.
The Silver Lining For Veteran Job Seekers
However, there are many trends in today’s job market that lend strength to veterans as applicants. Trends such as “lazy girl (or guy) jobs” and “bare minimum Monday” indicate an emerging workforce that is seeking employment with as little expected effort as possible. The values inherent to most veterans — such as their hard work ethic, determination, and grit — set them apart from the cadre of employment seekers who seemingly want to work less instead of working hard.
While the current employment environment may not appear to be especially strong for veterans, this does not mean that opportunities are scarce. In fact, there are plenty of resources and programs available to support veterans in their job search.
Companies are also more open to hiring veterans as they recognize the unique skills and strong work ethic that the military experience brings. In addition, many industries are currently experiencing a shortage of skilled workers, making it a prime time for veterans to capitalize on their transferable skills and fill in these gaps.
Best Companies Hiring Veterans
Who are these companies that hire veterans? In this article, BestCompaniesAZ recognizes companies that honor our heroes and demonstrate a commitment to hiring veterans.
- WillScot
- Workiva
- Achieve
- Axon
- Desert Credit Financial Union
- Habitat for Humanity Central Arizona
- Donor Network of Arizona
- HonorHealth
- Northern Trust
- Vensure Employer Solutions
WillScot
WillScot recognizes the unique skills and leadership veterans bring to the workforce. As a North American leader in modular space and portable storage solutions, they offer career opportunities where veterans can leverage their experience in logistics, operations, and problem-solving. Veterans thrive in WillScot’s fast-paced, team-oriented environment, making a lasting impact through hands-on work. WillScot employees can also join Veterans United, an employee-led resource team focused on creating an inclusive and supportive work environment for current and former servicemembers, and their families.
Join WillScot and transition your military experience into a rewarding civilian career with a company that values your service.
Workiva
Workiva is committed to supporting veterans as they transition into civilian careers, offering roles that utilize problem-solving and leadership skills honed during military service. As a tech company specializing in simplifying complex work, Workiva offers veterans the opportunity to apply their discipline and attention to detail in an innovative environment, with strong pathways for career growth.
Explore career opportunities at Workiva and find a company that actively recruits and supports veterans in their professional journey.
Vensure Employer Solutions
Vensure Employer Solutions values veterans for their leadership, adaptability, and operational expertise. Offering human resource solutions to companies across the globe, Vensure provides veterans with a structured environment where they can utilize their skills in client services, business operations, and more. The company’s supportive atmosphere makes it an ideal place for veterans to grow and thrive in their post-military careers.
Join Vensure’s team and bring your military background to a company that respects and fosters the unique talents of veterans.
Air2O
Air2O recognizes the dedication and technical skills veterans bring to the workforce, making them a great fit for its innovative climate control solutions. Whether it’s working in operations, project management, or technical support, Air2O provides veterans with opportunities to apply their technical expertise while working for a company focused on sustainable solutions.
Find your place at Air2O and leverage your military experience in a forward-thinking company committed to environmental innovation.
Axon
Axon, a leader in public safety technology, is dedicated to supporting veterans by offering roles that align with their military experience. Veterans will find their skills in teamwork, leadership, and mission-driven work to be a perfect fit at Axon, where they can contribute to meaningful projects that protect and serve communities worldwide.
Transition to a career at Axon and use your military experience to make a real-world impact in the field of public safety technology.
Habitat for Humanity Central Arizona
Habitat for Humanity Central Arizona is dedicated to providing veterans with career opportunities that make a tangible difference in their communities. Veterans bring the discipline and leadership necessary to excel in roles focused on project management, construction, and community engagement. With a mission centered around service, Habitat for Humanity offers veterans a chance to continue making a positive impact.
Join Habitat for Humanity Central Arizona and put your military experience to work in a career dedicated to building stronger communities.
Donor Network of Arizona
Donor Network of Arizona deeply values the selflessness and dedication veterans bring to the workplace. Veterans can make a meaningful impact by working in roles that support organ donation and transplantation efforts. Their sense of duty and commitment to saving lives align perfectly with Donor Network’s mission to make a difference in the community.
Explore careers at Donor Network of Arizona and continue serving others in a rewarding career that saves lives.
HonorHealth
HonorHealth welcomes veterans into a variety of roles where they can continue to serve their community. Whether in medical services, administration, or operational support, veterans will find a fulfilling career path that values their leadership and commitment. HonorHealth offers veterans the chance to contribute to an organization focused on compassionate care and community service.
Find your place at HonorHealth and use your military background to build a rewarding civilian career in healthcare.
Northern Trust
Northern Trust is committed to helping veterans transition into successful careers within the financial services sector. Veterans excel in Northern Trust’s structured, mission-driven environment, where their leadership and analytical skills are highly valued. With opportunities for advancement and professional development, Northern Trust provides veterans with a pathway to long-term success.
Explore a career at Northern Trust, where your military experience can thrive in the world of finance.
Achieve
Achieve values veterans for their discipline, leadership, and dedication to excellence, qualities that align perfectly with their mission of empowering people to achieve financial freedom. Veterans can find fulfilling careers at Achieve in customer service, operations, and financial consulting, where their problem-solving skills are highly valued and rewarded.
Join the team at Achieve and help others take control of their financial futures while building your own rewarding civilian career.
Desert Financial Credit Union
Desert Financial Credit Union is proud to provide veterans with career opportunities that honor their service. Veterans will find their leadership and attention to detail valued in roles ranging from financial services to operations. Desert Financial offers a supportive, growth-oriented environment where veterans can build meaningful careers while helping others achieve financial well-being.
Join Desert Financial Credit Union and bring your military skills to a company that’s as dedicated to service as you are.
Find the Best Companies That Hire Veterans Through BestCompaniesAZ
These are just a few of the best companies for veterans, but it doesn’t stop there! Each of the employers on our list is committed to hiring military service members, veterans, and their spouses. These organizations offer a variety of resources to support veteran employees and their families, including training and development programs, mentorship opportunities, job shadowing opportunities, community involvement, and more.
Military service members and veterans alike have a unique skill set that many companies value. Learn to leverage your skills, transition out of the military, and find veteran job help on BestCompaniesAZ to land your next career.
