Salesforce preparing Veterans, military spouses for tech careers

To combat employment challenges, VA collaborates with Salesforce in a partnership facilitated by VA’s National Center for Healthcare Advancement and Partnerships (HAP).

Entering the civilian workforce can be challenging for transitioning service members (TSMs) and Veterans. Frequent relocations can also negatively impact military spouses. While the Veteran and nonveteran unemployment rates are similar, Veterans are up to 38% more likely to be underemployed than nonveterans. Additionally, the 22% unemployment rate for military spouses increased to an estimated 38% in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

By leveraging partnerships at the national, state and local levels, VA enables TSMs, Veterans and military families to access a broader range of career-focused resources.

Salesforce provides free learning, certifications, and networking opportunities for Veterans and military spouses interested in pursuing careers in the technology industry. Salesforce also partners with Hiring Our Heroes to provide TSMs and military spouses with additional resources for career advancement and transition.

Starting in sales through the Salesforce Fellowship

Hanna Peck’s military career started in 2016 as a commissioned officer in the Army. After eight years in human resources, she was ready for her next career move. Through Hiring Our Heroes, she was introduced to the Salesforce Fellowship, a program that provides TSMs and military spouses with paid, hands-on experience through 12-week fellowships. Peck was then matched for a fellowship at Salesforce.

She was apprehensive about a potential career change and felt unsure about the skills required in the technology sector. The Salesforce culture, learning resources available through Trailhead, Salesforce’s free online learning platform and Salesforce Fellowship training opportunities gave her the confidence to move forward.

“The culture stood out to me right away. Coming from the military, I appreciate a very family and person-oriented culture, so it was nice to transition to a place with a similar tone,” Peck shared.

In addition to the hands-on experience that fellows get, they also have access to self-paced learning on Trailhead. Over 13,000 TSMs, Veterans and military spouses have completed the Veteran Mental Health and Resiliency Resources module, built in partnership with VA to support Veterans as they navigate career changes or move to new communities. This module is available to anyone interested in supporting Veterans’ mental health.

From Fellow to full time

Peck immediately recognized and appreciated the ties between her new role and the military. “Sales is built on relationships. It’s about getting to know people and identifying how to best serve them. Service to others is the foundation of military service, and I immediately identified with it.”

VA and Salesforce work together to serve Veterans and military families by identifying VA benefits Veterans may be eligible for but don’t know about. To date, over 7,000 individuals have completed the collaborative VA Benefits for Veterans module that highlights how VA supports military Veterans and their families.

Peck was offered a full-time account executive role at Salesforce. She credits the Salesforce fellowship with fully preparing her for the new position.

Advice for continuous growth at Salesforce

Peck meets with Veterans transitioning into civilian careers and encourages them to network with people from all backgrounds.

”It’s so important to connect with people in your transition and learn about them. It’s about connection and learning what people do and how they thrive. Instead of asking for a job or a referral, ask for a 15-minute chat to learn about the person and what motivates them,” she added.

If you’re a TSM or military spouse Interested in transitioning to an exciting career in technology, you can learn more about the Salesforce Fellowship through Hiring Our Heroes or check out technology careers and more at VA.

Get more information about Hanna Peck’s experience with Salesforce.

Get more information about Salesforce. More information about HAP.