Charlie Forshee, Deputy Executive Director of the Veterans Multi-Service Center, Jerry Flanagan, founder and CEO JDog Junk Removal & Hauling, and Alex Archawski, founder of the Greater Philadelphia Veterans Network, discussing vet employment, the myths and the facts. They discussed the obstacles vets face when entering the civilian job market, a lack of career objectives and an institutionalized focus on following orders; and the advantages they bring to a job, commitment and the need to do their best. Alex discussed the need for vets to find their passion for a career, not a ‘job,’ 65% of vets leave their first post-military job within two years. Charlie spoke about the Multi-Service Center’s job training programs and the myth of troubled vet, he notes that many issues returning vet present are problems that probably pre-dated their service. Jerry spoke on vet entrepreneurship and his own success in starting JDog, franchises owned and operated by vets with vet employees. They talked about the upcoming Vet Shark Tank, December 3 at the Union League, where vets from across the country will pitch their business plans for funding. Jerry discussed the need for his organization, creating networks of employers and vets and teaching businesses how to look at a vet resume to find a great employee.
