Governor Tim Walz has declared July "Hire A Veteran Month" to acknowledge the extensive skills and abilities that veterans bring to the workplace – and to encourage Minnesota employers to hire veterans not only in July but throughout the year. About 308,000 veterans live in Minnesota and 153,000 of them are of working age.

Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the large annual Veterans Career Fair traditionally held in July has been postponed. Instead, CareerForce, led by DEED's Veterans Employment Program, is hosting two virtual veterans' events this month along with other partners and with the support of the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA).

Minnesota's veterans, members of the National Guard and Reserves, transitioning service members and their families and caregivers are invited to attend these free, online events.

Veterans' Virtual Resources Fair

Join us Thursday, July 16, 1-3 p.m. to learn about the resources, services and benefits provided by multiple organizations and agencies that serve veterans. Participants can visit virtual booths to find out how to get connected to employment services, legal assistance, homeless services, financial assistance, veterans' benefits, education, health care, suicide prevention/mental health services, apprenticeship programs, and entrepreneurship.

Veterans' Virtual Career Fair

On Thursday, July 23, 1-3 p.m. you can meet Yellow Ribbon employers who are looking to hire now. Find out more about what these employers have to offer by visiting their virtual booths, asking questions during the live event, and making connections with employer representatives.

Among the employers slated to participate are Ameriprise Financial, Metropolitan Council, Grand Casinos, Xcel Energy, Medica, U.S. Bank, Wells Fargo, Marvin, Minnesota Department of Transportation, and Minnesota Department of Corrections. Others may be added.

Registration is required for both events. All you need to participate is an Internet connection and the ability to stream video and audio. Individuals with disabilities requiring accommodations should contact Shannon Sprouse at Shannon.Sprouse@state.mn.us.

In addition to CareerForce, partners for the July 16 event include County Veterans Service Officers, Minneapolis Community & Technical College, Minnesota Assistance Council for Veterans, Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry, Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs, U.S. Small Business Administration, Vet Centers, and Veterans Administration Healthcare.

Stay connected

Find out about upcoming veteran-related career fairs, events and resources by registering to receive information for veterans from CareerForce. Click to subscribe.

If you're looking for work, visit CareerForce for tools and personal assistance to help with your search. There, you'll also find information about Veterans Resources.