LEXINGTON, Ky. — The Kentucky Science and Technology Corporation (KSTC) launched a new workforce initiative to match veterans with open job opportunities in Kentucky. Veterans Accelerated Licensure Occupational Recruitment, or KY VALOR, is designed to recruit transitioning service members and their families to civilian occupations nationwide by partnering with Kentucky employers.
“Talent development and attraction is fundamental to building an innovation-driven economy. KSTC is in a unique position to help fill employment gaps for our wide network of employer partners,” shared KSTC President Terry Samuel. “With the career pathways we’ve already established, veterans can use their specialized military experience to secure high-paying licensed jobs throughout the state and we can support Kentucky employers in recruiting trained, proven employees.”
KY VALOR will offer veterans credit for prior military education and experience to quickly secure occupational licensures and certifications in the Commonwealth through 44 accelerated pathways developed by KSTC through a previous grant from the U.S. Department of Labor called VALLO. Kentucky is one of only three states with these military-friendly pathways, which lead to 55 licensed/certified occupations and cover more than 180 Military Occupational Specialties.
The program launched a new website, kyvalor.com, with plans to expand to a fully digital platform for veterans to connect with Kentucky employers. Those interested can sign up now to be notified when new features are added and to connect with the KY VALOR team for personalized assistance.
“We believe it’s important to take a personalized approach and go beyond job placement,” said Molly Bode, KY VALOR executive director. “We look at each service member’s unique experiences, career goals, and family needs to match them with opportunities so they can build a fulfilling post-service civilian career and home in Kentucky.”
After the success of KSTC’s VALLO program, the Kentucky General Assembly tasked and funded KSTC to develop this new initiative to recruit service members to Kentucky after leaving the military. KSTC estimates that the state can attract 1,200 transitioning service members to jobs with an average salary of $50,000 through the program.
Service members and employers interested in KY VALOR can visit kyvalor.com to learn more and sign up to be connected with job opportunities.
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