Technology to Advance Your Career:
A Guide for Disabled Veterans
Individuals with disabilities face unique challenges when seeking work. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the average unemployment rate for persons with disabilities aged 16 to 64 in the United States was 8% in 2019, compared to 3.6% for persons without disabilities. The situation is even worse for veterans: According to Military Daily, veteran unemployment tripled in 2020.
While those stats might be disheartening, there's also good news. Companies are more committed to diversity and inclusion than ever before, and advances in technology make it easier for persons with disabilities to find jobs and thrive. Vouch4Vets is one great example, giving veterans and spouses the opportunity to level the playing field. Read on to discover more tech tools that can help veterans with disabilities advance their careers.
Use assistive technology to support your job search efforts and excel at work.
When it comes to finding the right job — and then thriving in it — there are many state-of-the-art tools available to help. Finding work is easier than ever with online job boards: You can look for gigs on Vouch4Vets.Org and send applications without leaving the house. Also, check out platforms designed to help disabled individuals find work, like abilityJOBS. There are also more marketplaces just for veterans, like RecruitMilitary, FedsHireVets, and HireVeterans.
Once you get a job, invest in the tools you need to succeed. If you are hearing impaired, for example, check out transcription. Ava transcribes spoken audio for you via your smartphone or tablet. If you have trouble with vision, check out ZoomText, which enlarges small print on screens. Make sure your smartphone can accommodate helpful apps like these. A great phone also allows you to connect with clients, colleagues, and bosses via video chat, text, or phone call. If you need an upgrade, check for sign-up offers or trade-in deals with wireless providers.
Enhance your skills and knowledge with remote learning tools.
One challenge faced by veterans is that they have spent less time in the workforce due to their military service, so you may have less experience than other job-seekers your age. You may even have less formal education, especially if you joined the military at a younger age. Luckily, you can always make up for a lack of experience and education, thanks to modern-day remote learning tools.
You can learn basic skills like coding for little cost thanks to platforms like Udemy. Additionally, many universities now offer fully remote degree programs. Technology can also prove useful in supporting your digital education. For example, if you can't use a traditional keyboard and mouse due to limited motor function, try Dragon Naturally Speaking. This voice recognition technology allows you to control your computer using voice commands.
Check out home-based business opportunities.
You may decide that a traditional office job simply isn't for you. Why not become your own boss? There are many home-based business opportunities that allow veterans with disabilities to pursue entrepreneurship. The Brand Boy offers a list of home-based businesses ideal for individuals with disabilities, including web design, data entry, and virtual personal assistant gigs.
No clue how to get a business of your own off the ground? The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has resources to help, like seminars on building a home-based business. The U.S. Small Business Administration is another great resource, with guidance on everything from writing a business plan to establishing your company as a formal legal entity.
Finding a job as a disabled veteran can be daunting — but it's not impossible. Follow the above tips and trust in modern tech to help you get your dream gig.
Vouch4Vets supports vets and their spouses alike. Explore the site for opportunities and other resources.
