Legal Definitions - VETS

VETS stands for the Veterans' Employment and Training Service.

VETS is an agency within the U.S. Department of Labor dedicated to helping America's veterans, service members, and their spouses find meaningful employment and training opportunities. It also works to protect their employment rights and ensure they receive the benefits they've earned. This includes administering programs that provide job search assistance, career counseling, and reemployment rights protection.

• Example 1: Job Search Assistance for a Returning Service Member

  After completing her service in the Air Force, Sarah found it challenging to translate her specialized military skills into a civilian resume and navigate the corporate job market. She sought assistance from a local career center that partners with the VETS program. Through this partnership, she received personalized counseling, resume workshops, and connections to employers actively seeking veterans, ultimately helping her secure a position in project management.

  This illustrates VETS' role in providing direct employment assistance and training resources to veterans transitioning into the civilian workforce.

• Example 2: Protecting Reemployment Rights After Deployment

  Mark, a reservist, was deployed overseas for a year. Upon his return, his former employer informed him that his position had been filled and they could not rehire him. Mark contacted VETS, which is responsible for enforcing the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA). VETS investigated his case, educated his employer on their legal obligations under USERRA, and helped Mark get his job back with full benefits and seniority.

  This demonstrates VETS' critical function in protecting the employment rights of service members and veterans, ensuring they can return to their civilian jobs after military service without penalty.

• Example 3: Funding for Veteran Entrepreneurship Programs

  A non-profit organization aimed at supporting veteran entrepreneurs wanted to launch a new program offering business training and mentorship to veterans starting their own companies. They applied for and received a grant from VETS. This funding allowed them to develop comprehensive workshops, provide one-on-one coaching, and create a network for veteran business owners, fostering economic independence among the veteran community.

  This highlights VETS' role in providing grants and funding to organizations that develop and implement programs designed to enhance the employment and training prospects for veterans, including those pursuing entrepreneurship.