Cerritos College secures $1 million to help student veterans find jobs
NORWALK – Congresswoman Michelle Steel secured $1 million in congressional funding to expand student veteran employment at Cerritos College.
Unemployment among young veterans is nearly triple the national average, yet student veterans possess an array of unique skills and training as a result of their military service. Studies show that veterans remain with their initial employers 8.3 percent longer and are 39 percent more likely to be promoted than their nonveteran counterparts.
These numbers indicate that student veterans are more likely to be successful in terms of employment persistence and advancement in meaningful job opportunities.
Nonetheless, many veterans still experience underemployment when transitioning to civilian jobs.
The funding Rep. Steel secured will establish the Cerritos College Career Command Center, providing student veterans with on-campus job opportunities to work and earn income. This will empower them to learn and teach valuable work and life skills among a diverse, welcoming community of employees and students.
During the two-year pilot program, the college will gather data to assess student veterans' academic achievements and reintegration into civilian life. The program aims to establish a model that can be replicated statewide and nationwide.
“We thank Congresswoman Steel for championing our student veterans who have sacrificed themselves to protect our country and freedom,” said Cerritos College President/Superintendent Dr. Jose Fierro. “With this funding, our student veterans will gain meaningful job experience while focusing on their education, leading to personal and professional growth and advancement.”
“By connecting student veterans with resources and programs in their local communities, we not only honor their service to our nation, but we also make a concrete investment in developing our workforce and strengthening our economy,” said Rep. Steel. “I’m proud to support the innovative Career Command Center at Cerritos College, which will benefit student veterans in transition and ensure their success in the civilian job market.”