DOL VETS expands transition program to provide off-base workshops to Veterans, spouses, and Reservists. The expansion will occur in eight pilot locations identified using BLS unemployment data

Beginning on January 18, 2022, the Department of Labor’s (DOLs) Veterans’ Employment and Training Service (VETS) will begin a five-year expansion to extend its traditional Transition Assistance Program curriculum to provide off-base transition services. Currently, the VETS serves active military installations in at least 50 locations in 20 states to help the veteran population to improve their employment situations.

The new Off-Base Transition program offers 10, two-hour, instructor-led employment skills and workforce development workshops for veterans, Reservists, and their spouses. The four-module training program will be offered in-person and virtually, with 10 virtual workshops starting January 24, 2022.

Using current annual unemployment data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), VETS selected its eight pilot sites in Los Angeles, San Diego, Boston, Fayetteville, Pittsburgh, Houston, and San Antonio. The agency plans on expanding the pilot to at least 50 locations.

Employment Resource Coordinators will work with partner organizations to host the workshops, coordinate and schedule training. They will also offer referral services to local agencies such as American Job Centers and interested partner organizations that meet the requirements needed to host workshops. Interested organizations should contact VETS-OBTT@dol.gov or their VETS’ state director.