Representatives from America’s most influential companies and VSOs gathered to discuss veteran hiring and retention.
(NEW YORK CITY) – On September 8, FourBlock Program Director Damien Bertolo was a featured panelist at the LinkedIn Vets2Business Summit in New York City. Coordinated by LinkedIn Veterans Program Manger Dan Savage, the summit brought together representatives from veteran service organizations (VSOs) and corporations to discuss challenges veterans face transitioning into the workforce.
On a panel of VSO representatives, Bertolo spoke of FourBlock’s experience working with student veterans and the unique assets that former enlistees bring to the workplace. Bertolo was joined by Hire Heroes USA’s Brian Stann, Hire Our Heroes’ Chuck Hodges, Institute for Veterans and Military Families’ Nick Armstrong, Student Veterans of America’s Jared Lyon, and Team Red, White & Blue’s Joe Quinn. Panelists also discussed the challenge of retaining veterans once they’re hired, as well as painting a clearer, more accurate narrative of veterans.
Earlier in the day, a panel of corporate representatives discussed best practices for both veterans and corporations during the hiring process. Representatives included Daniel La Hart of MetLife, Eddie Dunn of Marsh & McLennan Companies, Evan Guzman of Verizon, Paul Francisco of State Street, and Ross Brown of JPMorgan Chase.
Bringing both sides of the transition process to the table is crucial; VSOs, such as FourBlock, will continue to empower and prepare veterans for successful careers, but ultimately it’s up to corporations to hire them. By having representatives from each side present, the summit generated candid dialogue that will prompt improvement on both ends, leading to more successful transitions for our veterans.
The summit also offered a preview of upcoming LinkedIn products and new technology that can be utilized by VSOs. Veterati and GuideOn each presented a promising look at their upcoming technologies, which focus on leadership development and skills translation, respectively.
FourBlock would like to thank LinkedIn for its continued dedication to veterans across the country. We are encouraged by the discussion that was had at the summit, and we look forward to potential collaborations with the other influential VSOs that were in attendance.
About FourBlock Foundation
FourBlock Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that is building a national network of veteran professionals and top companies. In partnership with Columbia University, the PwC Charitable Foundation, and the Bob Woodruff Foundation, FourBlock has successfully equipped veterans all over the country to pursue the best careers that maximizes their full potential. To learn more about how FourBlock is helping veterans transition better and building a national community of veteran professionals, visit: www.fourblock.org