Tech finds top-notch talent in U.S. veterans

The landscape for technology and business is changing at a dizzying pace. Advances in AI, cloud computing and other technologies will continue to revolutionize how we live and work. It’s exhilarating—and a little overwhelming—to consider what’s ahead.

This week, more than 18,000 people are gathering in Washington D.C. for Microsoft’s annual Inspire conference for global business partners. They’ll discuss what’s next for tech and the tools Microsoft is rolling out to empower every individual and organization on the planet to achieve more.

One topic at the forefront of the conversation is that the road ahead will require more human ingenuity, creativity and passion than ever. Companies will need the best and brightest on their teams to solve difficult problems. This is a real challenge considering the ongoing talent shortage: Each year, there are more than 500,000 open IT jobs—and not enough suitable candidates to fill them.

Since 2013, Microsoft has been tackling this problem with a program that helps fill technology roles with highly-skilled tech workers at more than 200 companies—while also helping transitioning U.S. service members and veterans land lucrative private-sector jobs. Microsoft Software & Systems Academy (MSSA) reskills servicemen and women in critical tech skills, equipping them with the know-how they’ll need to succeed in new professions.

Thus far, the program has been a breakaway success, tallying more than 600 graduates, 90 percent of whom have attained meaningful employment or are pursuing further education. The ever-expanding roster of 210-plus partners who have hired MSSA grads includes major brands like Accenture, Avanade, Dell, Expedia and more.

Hiring partners have been impressed not only by veterans’ technical savvy, but also by soft skills honed during service that are highly valued in the workplace: teamwork, discipline, and problem solving.

The MSSA program is a great opportunity for transitioning service members to get a head start on their careers with Dell,” said Lou Candiello, who is responsible for the military recruiting programs at Dell and a U.S. Marine veteran. “We’re proud to hire MSSA graduates as their skill sets are directly aligned to Dell opportunities, such as our ProSupport positions and the Global Services Associate Program.

With more than 200,000 service members transitioning every year from military to private sector careers, the opportunity is vast for businesses to tap the talent they seek through the MSSA program. Want to learn more or sign your company up? Check out our page for hiring partners.