Transitioning from Service to Success
For veterans, transitioning from military service to civilian life can be an uphill battle. From navigating new careers to supporting military spouses facing their own employment challenges, Hire Heroes USA has become a vital lifeline.
“Hire Heroes USA gave me the confidence and tools to re-enter the workforce,” shares Samantha Bell, a U.S. Navy veteran and clinical instructor in ABA therapy. After six years away from employment, including three battling cancer, Samantha found herself unsure of how to approach job searches and resume writing. “The coaching, friendship, and resources were invaluable when I felt lost and alone.”
The challenges are widespread. According to a recent McKinsey report, around 60% of the 150,000 U.S. active-duty service members transitioning to civilian life each year earn less in their first year post-service compared to their military pay.
Hire Heroes USA focuses especially on junior enlisted personnel, a core group of veterans who may lack a college degree, specialized skills, or clear direction for their post-military careers.
Bridging the Gap with Corporate Partnerships
McKinsey has played a pivotal role in Hire Heroes’ mission. “[Hire Heroes] supports service members who need it the most,” says McKinsey partner Steve Janco, a former Naval Officer. “They’re bridging the gap between military service and high-impact career opportunities by building relationships with top-performing companies and providing tailored coaching.”
With a strategic shift in the veteran employment landscape, including declining corporate veteran recruiting efforts, Hire Heroes recognized the need for a comprehensive strategic plan. McKinsey stepped in to help transform their operations.
Creating a New Roadmap for Veteran Success
McKinsey worked alongside Hire Heroes to analyze their services and refine their approach, ensuring they continue to meet the evolving needs of veterans. Key focus areas included:
- Expanding spousal support and community engagement.
- Developing a deeper understanding of Hire Heroes’ brand impact.
- Enhancing services to include personalized career pathways and local community resources.
“We’ve identified ourselves as a full career lifecycle support system,” says Hire Heroes CEO Ross Dickman, a 12-year U.S. Army veteran. This includes an alumni network for senior management transitions, greater personalization for newcomers, and enhanced services for military spouses.
Adapting to a Changing Funding Landscape
The evolving priorities of funding organizations and shifts in corporate veteran recruiting strategies posed challenges for Hire Heroes. To address this, McKinsey helped digitize donor outreach and streamline tracking using the Salesforce platform.
This shift has allowed Hire Heroes to focus on delivering personalized services while staying competitive in connecting with hiring organizations. “Every aspect of our system is designed to maximize that one-on-one conversation,” Ross emphasizes.
Driving Long-Term Impact for Veterans and Their Families
Hire Heroes’ partnership with McKinsey exemplifies the power of collaboration to drive meaningful change. By equipping veterans and military spouses with the resources, skills, and support they need, they’re not just finding jobs—they’re building thriving careers and stronger communities.
“Better job transitions lead to better long-term life outcomes,” notes McKinsey partner Charlie Lewis, a West Point graduate with 13+ years of active duty. “It saves lives. It gives purpose. It keeps people going.”
As Hire Heroes continues to evolve its services, veterans and their families stand to benefit from these strengthened efforts—proving that together, we can create pathways to opportunity and success for those who have served.
McKinsey & Company. (2024, November 11). McKinsey and Hire Heroes USA unite to bridge the career gap for veterans. Retrieved from https://www.mckinsey.com/about-us/new-at-mckinsey-blog/mckinsey-and-hire-heroes-usa-unite-to-bridge-the-career-gap-for-veterans