Microsoft and USO join together to help transitioning service members
Military service members train to deal with ambiguity and uncertainty. In the midst of the “fog of war,” they can execute on one of many plans that account for almost every conceivable scenario. Yet little of that training prepares them for their transition back to civilian life. The United Service Organizations (USO) has a long history of providing support to service men and women, and Microsoft Military Affairs is proud to partner with the USO through the recently launched USO PathfinderSM program.
The USO Pathfinder program connects service members and their families to best-in-class services and resources as they prepare for life after the military. Pathfinder sites are co-located with USO centers across the country, where Scouts (peer navigators) help guide individuals to the resources that would suit them best in various focus areas, including employment, education, financial readiness, veterans benefits, housing, legal, family strength and wellness, and volunteerism.
“The USO Pathfinder program is an excellent starting point for transitioning service members who may be a bit confused about where to begin their research,” said Chris Cortez, vice president of Military Affairs. “Microsoft Software & Systems Academy (MSSA) is but one of many great options for those interested in a career in tech.”
With an individual’s specific goals in mind, USO Scouts help create an Action Plan and provide connections to both local and national resources to assist service members in making sound decisions in their transition to civilian life.
MSSA has proved to be a tremendous resource for hundreds of veterans, and this partnership will help us extend its impact, whether through an onsite program at a USO location (to be determined) or through extended referrals.
We look forward to working with the USO for many years to come.