EXPLORE CAREER OPTIONS THROUGH THE MILITARY VETERANS AGRICULTURAL LIAISON


By jlustig
Military Veterans Agricultural Liaison plating a crop in soil.

Interested in agriculture? The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) understands the importance that Veterans play and the change they can make to the agricultural industry. The USDA offers training and support so you are able to make a successful career change into the agricultural industry. Recent reports have uncovered that America’s agriculture is on the decline. Thus, it is in need of new workers ready to tackle complex problems. This is leading to officials reaching out to Veterans. They are seeking their help, expertise, and skills to make a change. Interested in helping out, or making a career change? Read on to uncover information and resources on how to get involved with the Military Veterans Agricultural Liaison.

The Military Veterans Agricultural Liaison Helps Launch New Careers

Military Veterans Agricultural Liaison (MVAL) helps Veterans get on the right path for their career with outside resources. The process is pretty simple and easygoing. It all starts with receiving information from the MVAL. Then, they will connect you with programs that meet your needs. Later in the process, the MVAL will advocate on your behalf through interactions in the department. Their goal is to try to find the best fit for you! The Military Veterans Agricultural Liaison also looks for individuals who are returning home, and wanting to start a new career on a farm. If that sounds interesting to you, here are some of the ways they help Veterans explore successful careers in agriculture:

  • Connecting with USDA Human Resources Office to help Veterans find the right job at USDA agencies.
  • Introducing Veterans with paid apprenticeships through USDA and the Department of Labor.
  • Work with the Department of Veterans Affairs and help Veterans gain the experience through non-paid internships.

Finding your closest USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service Center will help you get started and reach the career path that you want! To find the closest USDA Service Center to you click here.

Why Is the Military Veterans Agricultural Liaison Important?

MLVA helps Veterans connect with individuals outside of the military field. For Veterans interested in agriculture and pursuing something in the field, the MLVA is the perfect place to start. Additionally, the Military Agricultural Liaison helps Veterans who want to keep America's food supply safe, helps Veterans strengthen their rural and urban communities, and helps them work to conserve the environment. Additionally, the MLVA offers a number of valuable work and internship opportunities for Vets wanting to start a new career in agriculture. The best part is you can enroll in an apprenticeship program, gaining experience, a credential, and skills in less than 12 months. Keep reading to learn more about the programs offered.

Tips for Vets Wanting to Find a Job In Agriculture

Looking for a job in agriculture, but not sure where to start of how to be successful in the job search? We're breaking down what you need to know to find a job in agriculture, and are giving you some helpful tips to consider when embarking on your new journey.

  • Professional networking and associations: Networking can be a very valuable resource when looking for a job in the field of agriculture. Use professional networking sites. Furthermore, talk to people in the industry you might know to help you land a job in agriculture. Lastly, using these platforms helps one meet industry professionals, learn about job developments, and can help facility opportunities for growth within the field.
  • Create a powerful resume for the role: Be sure to look over the requirements for each job you apply for as they have different requirements in the agricultural sector. Additionally, tailoring your resume and highlighting your military skills will help you stand out.
  • Highlight transferable skills: Whether you are new to the field or have been working in agriculture for years, highlighting your skillsets has value. Some skills you might include are: leadership, problem-solving, team collaboration, mechanical skills, and management experience.

Gain Experience Through Military Veterans Agricultural Liaison Internships

Starting a new career after military service can be a journey full of excitement, anticipation, nervousness, and sometimes fear. The good news is that the Military Veterans Agricultural Liaison program is helping Veterans gain experience in the field, providing them a solid foundation. Below are the training programs offered.

  • National Service Programs: These programs help one address the needs of their community, while also helping to develop personal skills for potential career advancement.
  • Third-Party Internship Programs: The USDA partners with various organizations to provide internship experience for students. They can be tailored to meet specific interests and recruitment/selection is covered the host programs.
  • Career Development Programs: The career development programs allow students to grow professionally. Furthermore, the program offers real-world experiences with USDA agencies to help with networking, professional development, and career awareness in the agricultural sector.
  • Pathways Programs: The USDA offers federal internship and employment opportunities for Veterans, recent graduates, and students.*

*This includes the Pathways Internship Program, the Pathways Recent Graduate Program, and the Presidential Management Fellow Program. Each of these programs help one develop the necessary skills for career advancement. In short, it is based on their life experience, education level, and military service. Related reads:


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