Canada unveils strategy to improve employment opportunities for veterans

Roughly 8,200 CAF members transition to civilian life annually

BY Jonalyn Cueto 02 Jul. 2024

Veterans Affairs Canada has unveiled a new initiative, Service after Service: The National Veterans Employment Strategy.

Aimed at enhancing employment opportunities for veterans, this strategy reflects a commitment to facilitate their transition to civilian life.

The comprehensive plan is designed to leverage veterans’ unique skills and qualifications, according to a news release. With an average of 8,200 Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members transitioning to civilian life annually, about half seek new career opportunities. Recognizing this, Ottawa aims to make the job search process more efficient and effective for veterans.

Key elements of the strategy include:

improving services and expanding programs for veterans
creating and recognizing veteran-ready employers
positioning the public service as a leader for veteran employment
building trusted partnerships.

These partnerships involve collaborating with government departments, non-profit organizations, post-secondary institutions, and businesses to create a supportive community for veteran employment.

Recently, Canadian military doctors and nurses began working in the Yukon's public health care system.

Skills, dedication, leadership of veterans

The government noted the strategy is designed to be dynamic, with ongoing updates based on evidence and consultations to address emerging issues and adapt to changing needs.

“Each year, serving members of the Canadian Armed Forces become veterans. They have the skills, dedication, and leadership needed across the workforce. Our government is introducing a National Veterans Employment Strategy to reduce employment barriers for veterans, which will contribute to a successful transition to life after service and to their overall well-being,” said Ginette Petitpas Taylor, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence.