New model prioritizes career advancement, professional credentialing, and upward mobility for veterans at every stage of their civilian journey. 

(ROCHESTER, NY) — Veterans Outreach Center (VOC) has restructured its employment services, officially rebranding the department as Workforce Development. They have moved beyond traditional job placement assistance to a comprehensive model of career construction designed to serve veterans ranging from entry-level job seekers to experienced professionals seeking career advancement. 

The transition from “Employment and Training” to “Workforce Development” reflects VOC’s commitment to long-term economic success for the region’s veterans. While VOC remains a critical safety net for veterans facing employment barriers, this program reorganization is equally focused on the “underemployed”: veterans who have jobs but are working below their skill level and established professionals looking to climb the corporate ladder. 

“The narrative that Veterans Outreach Center is only a crisis center is outdated,” Veterans Outreach Center Executive Director and U.S. Army veteran Laura Heltz said. “We are an opportunity engine. As someone who was once told my military experience didn’t count as work experience, I know firsthand what it’s like struggling to find a job after service. Our Workforce Development model is designed to support veterans through every promotion, certification, and pivot in their career, no matter how long they served.” 

VOC can help veterans find career opportunities across multiple industries, including: 

• Administration and business 

• Animal welfare 

• Construction and skill trades 

• Customer service 

• Education and childcare 

• Energy and optics 

• Healthcare and caregiving 

• Hospitality and food service 

• Human services 

• IT & technology 

• Manufacturing 

• Public safety and security 

VOC Is also seeking partnerships with employers who are seeking qualified candidates. 

Interested veterans can contact Dave.VanBlarcom@vocroc.org or stop by VOC at 447 South Ave., Rochester. 

Employers looking for qualified veteran candidates can contact Stephanie.Beikirch@vocroc.org.