Purpose

The VETS2INDUSTRY Virtual Networking Circuit Event is a platform that bridges the gap between veterans, active-duty service members, military spouses, and the corporate world. The event offers networking opportunities that can lead to career advancements, mentorship, and professional development. Its primary goals include:

• Facilitating networking. Connecting job seekers with employers, recruiters, and mentors.
• Sharing resources. Offering information on veteran benefits, career transition tools, and educational opportunities.
• Providing mentorship. Helping veterans and military personnel connect with experienced mentors to guide them in their career paths.

What to Expect

• Connect with industry professionals, veterans, and like-minded individuals virtually.
• Share experiences, make new connections, and explore potential opportunities.
• Participate in speed networking rounds with random group rotations.
• Enjoy a keynote speaker, sponsor highlights, and engaging discussions in open networking rooms.

Event Overview

The event is carefully structured to maximize interaction, learning, and networking opportunities for all participants. Here’s an expanded breakdown of the typical format:

• Main Session #1 – Sign-In & Networking.Participants log into the event, meet fellow attendees, and network with others before the event officially starts.
• Main Session #2 – Welcome & Opening Remarks. The VETS2INDUSTRY team provides an introduction, highlighting the goals and how to maximize the event. Attendees are briefed on the event structure, networking opportunities, and resources available.
• Main Session #3 – Keynote Session. A featured speaker shares insights on career transition, leadership, or veteran-related topics. These speakers, often veterans or industry leaders, offer valuable knowledge to inspire and guide attendees.
• Sponsor Presentation #1 – Signal Health Group. A representative from Signal Health Group delivers a presentation highlighting their services, mission, and opportunities for veterans.
• Sponsor Presentation #2. Another sponsor shares a brief presentation about their organization and how they support the military and veteran community.
• Exhibition #1 – Recruiters. Recruiters from various companies discuss their hiring processes, current job openings, and what they look for in veteran applicants. Attendees can ask questions and explore different career paths.
• Breakout Networking Session #1. Participants join smaller groups to connect based on their industry or career interests. This provides an opportunity for more personalized conversations and direct networking.
• Main Session #4 – Open Networking: Veterans/Service Members/Military Spouses. A dedicated open networking period for veterans, active-duty service members, and military spouses to discuss career transitions, job opportunities, and challenges within their communities.
• Breakout Networking Session #2. Another round of smaller, focused breakout groups where participants can engage with mentors, recruiters, and fellow attendees.
• Exhibition #2 – Veteran Service Organizations. Veteran Service Organizations present their resources, programs, and opportunities available to veterans, military personnel, and their families.
• Breakout Networking Session #3. A final session of breakout networking where participants can engage more deeply with industry professionals, recruiters, or potential mentors.
• Exhibition #3 – Veterans/Military Spouse Owned Businesses. A showcase of veteran and military spouse-owned businesses, offering insights into entrepreneurship and opportunities for collaboration or employment.
• Main Session #5 – Questions & Answers. A Q&A session where attendees can ask follow-up questions about the event, career opportunities, veteran services, and more.
• Main Session #6 – Closing Remarks. The event concludes with final remarks, encouraging attendees to stay connected with the VETS2INDUSTRY community and look out for future events.

Why Attend

• Network with Industry Leaders: Connect with professionals from various industries eager to support and mentor veterans and military spouses.
• Access Valuable Resources: Learn about job opportunities, educational programs, and other resources tailored to the military community.
• Gain Inspiration and Guidance: Hear success stories and advice from veterans who have successfully transitioned into civilian careers.

Who Should Attend

• Veterans: Those looking for career transitions, mentorship, or advice on benefits.
• Active-duty service members: Those preparing for transition or interested in networking with civilian employers.
• Military Spouses: Those seeking employment, education opportunities, or connections to employers that support military families.
• Recruiters/Employers: Representatives from organizations actively looking to hire veterans and military spouses.
• Mentors: Industry professionals or veterans who wish to offer guidance and support.

Key Benefits

• Networking: Direct access to recruiters and professionals from various industries.
• Mentorship: Opportunities to connect with mentors who can help guide attendees through the transition process and career growth.
• Job Opportunities: Insight into current job openings and how to apply effectively as a veteran or military spouse.
• Community Support: A welcoming environment where veterans, service members, and military families can share their experiences and support each other.

Additional Information

• Dress Code: Business Casual is appropriate. If you need advice on what to wear, contact a VETS2INDUSTRY facilitator.
• Facilitators: Facilitators in the rooms are there as guides if conversations dry up or guests need help in private rooms. This is a networking event to mingle, not a training course or education seminar.
• Email Communication: To receive crucial information, including the Zoom meeting password, make sure your spam filter is off for events@vets2industry.org.

Join Us

These events are free and open to all veterans, military personnel, and their families. It is a highly interactive experience where participants can build meaningful connections, explore career paths, and take steps toward their professional goals. The VETS2INDUSTRY Virtual Networking Circuit is the perfect opportunity to engage, learn, and grow. We look forward to your participation!