As unemployment for Post 9/11 Veterans climbs past 11.5%, Military spouses are under increasing pressure to help support their family. But that job search just got a little bit easier Thursday, as the employers came to those spouses at a career fair on Fort Hood.
When Jaqueline Douse's husband retired from the Military, he couldn't get a job. "And now I need to get a full time job to support the rest of the household," she said.
She's scheduled to graduate from Central Texas College next year, but has to put her schooling on hold so her Veteran husband can go to school. And that's what brought to the career fair at Hood Howdy on Fort Hood.
Even active service members are taking advantage of the more than 20 employers with open jobs.
"[I]can't be hired now but just knowing what's out there is good for me," said MAJ Nicole Harrell, who plans to retire from the Army soon.
"Anytime we're addressing a 26% unemployment rate, it's very important for us to be able to do what we can do to bring as many employers together under one roof," said the Employment Readiness Program's Manager, Teresa Shipman.
But the career fair targets military spouses in hopes to find them jobs. Those job possibilities included customer service, education, the financial industry, and healthcare.
"It's always important to have that second income because it relieves the stress and then if you want to travel do entertainment, or save, or buy a home, it really makes a difference," said Shirley Quick, Relocation Manager for Army Community Services.
Jaqueline recommends military spouses to be prepared for their soldier's retirement and go to career fairs whenever you can. "Maybe two years prior, before they retire or before they return back that way you will be a little bit ahead of the game," she says.
CLICK HERE for more information on the employment readiness program. You can also contact them at 254-286-7480.
There will be another Career Fair at Club Hood on Fort Hood March 21st from 10am-1pm.
