Veterans

USDA Supports America’s Heroes

Preparedness and defense are critical to America’s food and agriculture sectors and to sustaining and growing rural America. That’s why the U.S. Department of Agriculture is looking to military veterans across the country to fill the roles that keep America’s food supply safe and secure, preserve and strengthen rural communities, and restore and conserve the environment.

USDA wants to ensure that veterans looking to return home, or start a new career on a farm or in a rural community have the tools and opportunities they need to succeed.

Employment Education Entrepreneurship

Offices and Programs

The Military Veterans Agricultural Liaison (MVAL)

The USDA Military Veterans Agricultural Liaison supports outreach to active-duty military, National Guard, and Reserve service members; all-era veterans, military spouses, and family members, to advance entrepreneurship, employment, and education in agriculture. The MVAL emphasizes veteran advocacy and coordination of specialized agricultural training, technical guidance, and resources across USDA and other federal agencies, state and local governments, non-profit-organizations, educational institutions, private sector entities, and faith-based organizations. The MVAL works collaboratively with other federal agencies including the U.S. Department of Defense, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, the U.S. Department of Labor, and the U.S. Small Business Administration to prepare veterans for agricultural careers. Through MVAL outreach, veterans are connected to internship programs through USDA, the Department of Labor, DoD, non-profit, and local farmers and ranchers for comprehensive training and hands-on agricultural experiences. For more details, contact veterans@usda.gov.

USDA Veterans Employment Program Office (VEPO)

The USDA Veterans Employment Program Office is dedicated to advancing the career goals of military veterans within the USDA. This office provides tailored support to help veterans navigate the federal hiring process, access professional development resources, and connect with job opportunities across various USDA divisions. By offering specialized career counseling and employment assistance, the office ensures that veterans are well-prepared to transition successfully into roles that contribute to the USDA’s mission and the broader agricultural community.

For more details, contact VeteranHiring@usda.gov.

Military Spouse Program (MSP)

The Military Spouse Program is designed to support the career aspirations of military spouses who are integral to the USDA workforce. This program offers resources and guidance to help military spouses find meaningful employment within USDA agencies, access career development opportunities, and balance their professional and personal lives. Through targeted initiatives and partnerships, the program aims to enhance job stability and career growth for spouses of service members, thereby strengthening the overall resilience and well-being of military families.

For more details, contact MilitarySpouses@usda.gov.