Indianapolis, Indiana – For Indiana veterans looking to build a career after military service, the transition into civilian employment can lead to more than just a steady paycheck. Some are finding opportunities that come with six-figure salaries, management responsibilities, and a chance to put their experience to work in a completely different environment.
Those individual achievements are now part of a broader success story in Indiana, where a state-run employment program for veterans has surpassed its federal performance targets.
Indiana Governor Mike Braun announced this week that the state’s Jobs for Veterans State Grants (JVSG) program exceeded expectations during the 2026 federal fiscal year, helping former military personnel connect with employers and secure jobs across different industries.
According to the governor’s office, more than 66% of veterans who completed their participation in the program were employed in the second quarter after leaving. That figure exceeded the established performance target of 62%, representing a difference of more than four percentage points.
The benchmarks are developed in consultation with the U.S. Department of Labor and are used to measure how effectively the program helps veterans move into employment.
While the overall employment rate provides one measure of progress, state officials also highlighted several individual cases that show the kinds of opportunities available through the initiative.
One veteran who received assistance through the program secured a production supervisor position at Pinnacle Oil with an annual salary of $110,000. Another found employment as a project manager at Allegion, also earning $110,000 annually.
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A third veteran obtained a compliance manager position with GXO Logistics, earning $92,000 per year.
Together, these examples demonstrate how the program can help former service members enter professional and leadership positions with substantial earning potential.
The initiative is administered by the Indiana Department of Workforce Development using federal grant funding. Through this support, specialized employees work at WorkOne offices to provide career assistance tailored to veterans seeking employment.
Their responsibilities include helping eligible veterans navigate the job market while connecting Indiana businesses with qualified candidates who have military experience.
Braun emphasized that supporting former service members is an important responsibility for state government.
“Indiana’s veterans have gone above and beyond for Hoosiers, and state government must do the same for those who have served,” Gov. Braun said.
“I will always ensure Hoosier veterans receive the essential services they need to succeed. It is a win when we connect Indiana’s employers with these hard-working veterans who can in turn help our businesses thrive.”
Indiana Secretary of Commerce Chuck Goodrich also pointed to the economic benefits of helping veterans secure better-paying positions.
“By securing employment wins and expanding community partnerships for veterans, Gov. Braun is making a lasting difference in the lives of Hoosiers who have served,” Goodrich said. “By helping veterans earn higher wages, we are helping businesses grow, creating opportunities that help all of Indiana prosper.”
The latest results give Indiana officials a measurable indication that the federally supported program is meeting its employment objectives while helping employers access experienced workers.
Veterans interested in exploring available employment assistance, as well as employers seeking information about the initiative, can learn more through the Indiana Department of Workforce Development’s Veterans Services website.
