Ron DeSantis touts ‘Paychecks for Patriots’ veteran job fairs

On Wednesday, Gov. Ron DeSantis encouraged veterans seeking employment to attend state-hosted “Paychecks for Patriots” job fairs this week and next as state agencies and organizations partner to hold the seventh annual event for veterans and their families.

“As a veteran myself, I am proud that our state is committed to helping veterans and their families gain meaningful employment and make Florida the most veteran-friendly state in the country,” DeSantis said.

More than 1.5 million veterans live in Florida. Veterans across the state had an unemployment rate of 2.7 percent in 2018, below the national average of 3.5 percent for veterans, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

The sponsored job fairs are hosted by the CareerSource Florida network, the Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO), the Florida National Guard and the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs. Fairs provide an opportunity for veterans to meet employers, learn about available jobs and apply for current openings, DeSantis’ office said in a news release.

DEO and CareerSource Florida partner with 24 local workforce development boards throughout the state that operate more than 100 career centers.

“The CareerSource Florida network is honored to provide veterans with career assistance to support their transition to the civilian workforce and help military spouses connect with job opportunities in their communities,” said CareerSource Florida President and CEO Michelle Dennard.

DeSantis proclaimed Paychecks for Patriots as running from Nov. 4 to Nov. 15, but eight events span from Oct. 31 to Nov. 21 across the state. Additionally, the Governor encouraged veterans to attend more than a dozen career fairs in Florida this month.

DEO Executive Director Ken Lawson also highlighted the nearly 5,000 veterans the agency has helped find jobs this year and the 150 veterans the agency employs.

“Gov. DeSantis and his administration are committed to making Florida the most veteran-friendly state for veterans and their families,” Lawson said. “Being a Marine, I understand the values and assets veterans can bring to Florida’s businesses.”