I am a former client and current team member of this amazing organization. I greatly appreciate OJRV because it focuses on the support veterans need during transition periods (personal and professional). While the mission is primarily geared towards career readiness, we ensure our clients are directed to proper referrals for the concerns we may not address. OJRV wants every client to understand they are important and they are heard.
DI was actively looking for a job, sending out applications daily and attending interviews that didn’t seem to go anywhere. It was a frustrating and uncertain time. Then, I met Kristal Watts, I shared how difficult the process had been. To my surprise, she was able to assist me with my resume and helped matched my skills. Thank you!
Operation Job Readiness has assisted me tremendously. They were able to assist/help me with clothing and shoe for employment after a home fire and getting back into the job market. My case worker ensure I was given all the tools to get back into the job field and also did follow-up check ins with me as well.
An amazing non profit veteran organization that assists with transitional barriers to gain meaningful employment. Host virtual workshops and one-on-one personalized training and mentoring.
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I was introduced to Operation: Job Ready Veterans (OJRV) over 9 years ago through my previous employer. I met with OJRV and they allowed me to speak with the attendees of their Veterans Employment Transition Seminar (VETS) that was held monthly about the supportive services that I was able to provide to Veterans and Service Members. Built a strong relationship with the OJRV team and was amazed about the Transition and Employment results that Veterans, Service Members, and Military Families attendees received during the seminar. OJRVs team compassion towards their clients is 2nd to none. This compassion led me to pursue employment with OJRV, which is also a passion of mine. Fast forward 8 years, I am very proud to be a part of such an amazing team that continues to support and provides the above mentioned services still today.
OJRV was very helpful in refining my resume and translating my military skills to the civilian job market.
Great non profit veteran organization. They really go above and beyond for you in regards to job placement and making sure you’re taken care
Highly recommend if you’re in need of help you reach out to this team. They will take care of your needs.
I reached out to Deb on the recommendation from another veteran and I am so glad I did! She was prompt, engaging, and a great listener which helped to nail down where I should be directing my efforts for maximum impact. She is directly responsible for leading me to the great company I now work at and I couldn’t be more thankful for her support, as well as the vibrant community the entire OJRV team embodies.
Kristal is one of the most caring, capable and empathetic people I’ve ever dealt with. She goes above and beyond to help take care of fellow veterans and even after a job is secured makes sure that they have everything they need to accomplish their job. I’m super grateful for her and her crew doing the most. Thank you.
My contact was super helpful and friendly. The services I received for my resume and cover letter were spot on and insightful. The process was straightforward and non-stressful and was tailored to exactly what I needed. I also attended a webinar that provided great insight. My experience with OJRV as a whole was very positive and led to me getting a job I love with my very first application. Overall I highly recommend.
Hi, I cannot express enough gratitude for the incredible support and guidance I received from Jordan during my transition from the military to a civilian career. Jordan's expertise was pivotal in shaping my resume to align with various job opportunities, and her dedication in finding suitable positions for me was unmatched. She went above and beyond in preparing me for interviews, ensuring I was confident and ready to tackle any challenge. Beyond her professional skills, Jordan's unwavering support and encouragement made a significant difference in my journey. Thanks to her and the team at OJRV, I have successfully transitioned into my current role, and I am truly grateful for their invaluable assistance.
Operation: Job Ready Vet was instrumental to my successful transition. The Indianapolis team provided valuable training and insight, propelling me to the perfect position. I recommend OJRV to any transitioning military member. Fantastic, heartfelt team!
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One of my best experiences I ever had when I was looking for a career. Kim from Operation: Job Ready Veterans displayed the true meaning of Be, Know, and Do. From start to finish the organization kept effective communication and willingness's to burn the mid-night oil to find suitable solutions. Definitely would recommend the organization to fellow veterans looking for a career or career path.
Jordan was amazing, helping build my resume after my time in the military then working with me to find a job. Really appreciate all of their help during this process. I retire in the next few months and I feel very confident after going through this process with them. Definitely recommend this service.
Excellent service for veterans' career services using a forward-thinking approach to bridge life’s transitional gaps for veterans, service members, and military families.
CLEC d/b/a Operation: Job Ready Veterans has played a pivotal role in my life since 2020. I was a client of John Zeigler after being laid off in late 2019. I participated in in-person sessions regarding resume writing, interviewing skills, and enhancing my online presence on LinkedIn. Upon finishing the program, I knew I wanted to help other military veterans who found themselves in the same predicament (needing a career change and seeking fulfilling employment) but felt I would not find work in that field because I had no prior experience. I continued working in the mortgage industry because it was my comfort zone and the bulk of my experience post military service, but found myself laid off again, due to reduction in force a few years later.
My new Employment Transition Manager at the time, Deborah Walker, notified me of the opportunity to work for the organization. I applied and was offered the position of Employment Transition Manager. Eight months later, I applied for a promotion and received it. I am now a Regional Director managing Indiana and Michigan. I look forward to going to work every day. I absolutely love my job and my clients. Thanks to OJRV, I walk, and work, in my purpose! Serving fellow military veterans daily is such an honor and privilege.
It's the best job, aside from being a mom and serving in the US Air Force, that I've ever had. I strive to assist as many veterans, service members, and family members as I possibly can because I want them to feel the same level of compassion and importance I did when I was a client!
I have had the privilege of partnering with Mike Espinda and OJRV (Opportunity Jobs for Veterans) for going on 7 years. I must say, it has been an exceptional experience. OJRV, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting veterans in finding meaningful employment opportunities, impressed me with their unwavering commitment to serving those who have served our country.
Navigating the website was a breeze. From comprehensive resources for veterans to insightful articles on employment strategies, OJRV's online platform serves as a valuable hub for veterans transitioning into civilian careers.
Working closely with Mike Espinda, I was struck by his passion for making a difference in the lives of veterans. His dedication to understanding each veteran's unique skills and aspirations was evident, as he worked to match them with suitable job opportunities.
Overall, my experience with OJRV and Mike Espinda exceeded expectations. Their commitment to empowering veterans through employment opportunities is truly commendable, and I wholeheartedly endorse their mission. Whether you're a veteran seeking employment or an organization looking to support our nation's heroes, OJRV is a beacon of hope and assistance.
I use this organization as a resource for many veterans that I work with who are looking for employment. They have a great program of helping these veterans attend training , a great training program and follow up with them till they are employed. They do not just focus on getting them employed but employed in a position that is valuable to that individual that they should be able to stick with and enjoy their work. They don't throw them at jobs just because the job is there. They coach them to find what is the best fit and how to not only apply but have a good resume, and do a good interview. I would recommend this program to anyone looking for employment.
I've been delighted to start a partnership with Deborah Walker, Director of Strategic Programs from Operation Job Ready Veterans. From an employer perspective, Operation Job Ready Veterans is easy to work with and is vested in establishing a true partnership with employers for understanding and matching talent needs with the veteran community.
A few months ago I took a huge pay cut when I decided to switch jobs to be closer to my family. I worked 47 minutes away from home and was usually working 10-12 hour days. It was really putting a strain on my family life. I made a decision to change jobs and it ended up being a huge mistake! Then I remembered that a few weeks before that, Kim Dart, who is a part of "Operation Job Ready Veterans", left me a voicemail. I immediately reached out to her and she gave me new hope. We talked for a while and she informed me how everything would work and after talking with her and telling her what I was looking for, she helped me update my resume, she sent me different employment opportunities based on what shelearned from me, and literally a couple weeks later I was set up with a job interview! I have been at my new employment for 2 months now and I love it! None of this would have been possible without Kim Dart and Operation Job Ready Veterans! I send all my soldiers who are looking for employment to her and she continues to help veterans in need!
I received a telephone call from this organization and was told about classes that were being offered to transitioning veterans seeking employment assistance and re-training. They offered the following classes:
PL VETS Networking & Social Media 6/28/2023 12 pm EST
PL VETS Federal Resume Webinar 6/13/2023 10 am EST
PL VETS Interviewing 5/31/2023 12 pm EST
PL VETS Proposition Statement 6/13/2023 12 pm EST
PL VETS Transition Skills 6/14/2023 or 6/14/2023 12 pm EST
PL VETS Civilian Resume 6/21/2023 12 pm EST
If you need additional assistance, they offer that also. As a veteran, this organization is here for you, please take advantage of the opportunities!
I have worked for Mountain Comprehensive Care for 8 years. I am the program manager for the Homeless Veterans Reintegration Program (HVRP), it's a small grant through the Department of Labor to help homeless veterans and veterans facing evictions, to find gainful employment. I partnered up with OJRV last year, the Kentucky Rep., James Rogers is absolutely phenomenal with my veterans. The veteran community I serve have trust issues, they've been promised assistance from other agencies that fell through, so they trust no one. Until you prove you've got their six. When I work with other partners, I always make calls to follow up (guess I have trust issues), making sure my veterans are being served, which creates more work for me. I know longer make those follow up calls to OJRV, because I know James Rogers has their six. The more people you have assisting a veteran, the more successful the veteran. Absolutely the best partnership I've ever made! Thank you OJRV for everything you do for the veteran community!!
Operation: Job Ready Veterans is a fantastic organization that truly cares about the Veterans and families that they serve.
I am a Veteran who also works serving Veterans. James Rogers, the Kentucky Employment Transition Manager, has helped with my career transition by assisting me with creating a high-quality resume as well as educating me about the differences between civilian and federal resumes. OJRV also offers classes, workshops, supportive services, and interview guidance to Veterans and their family members. They provide guidance through career struggles that are unique to Veterans and work one on one with the veteran to really understand their individual goals and needs. Since James is also a veteran who has made the transition into the civilian workforce, he is able to truly understand the struggles Veterans face.
In my line of work, I frequently encounter Veterans, current service members, and their families who are struggling to find meaningful employment and OJRV is a great resource for them. When I encounter a Veteran facing hardship finding employment, I inform them about OJRV knowing they are a legitimate non-profit that will assist the Veteran and never take advantage of them or charge for services. OJRV is a true non-profit that operates in the best interest of the veterans and families that they serve. They operate with compassion and integrity. OJRV is a great asset to the Veteran community.
I have been working for Operation Job Ready Veterans for almost 3 years. This organization really allows me to make a huge impact to the veterans, service members, and families here in Wisconsin. Wisconsin is a very rural state, and I am allowed to travel and make a direct impact to veterans all over the state, especially in rural areas. I also get to bring services to the various Native American Tribes throughout the state. OJRV goes the extra mile to provide top notch services, information, and employment services.
I have had the awesome experience of working with Mr. Darron Hardy. Mr. Hardy has assisted me with several job ventures. He provided great insight. Mr. Hardy is the epitome of professionalism.
Operation: Job Ready Veterans gave assistance to updating my resume and landing a meaningful position that also fits my needs. They gave me the confidence to be my best self and lead the way to a bright future. As a veteran, I encourage all to connect with OJRV and use their expertise and resources to follow your new journey of endless possibilities and dreams.
I almost gave up the idea of going back to school to finish my degree until I met with Operation: Job Ready Veterans. Translating my military skills and experiences into civilian terms felt overwhelming. I didn't know enough about what civilians found important to list on my resume. I was able to secure employment that fell within the scope of my skills and experience. OJRV truly made balancing work and life possible.
Darron Hardy has been an extremely diligent Employment Transition Manager, he has consistently allowed me to stay in contact with him, ask questions, receive direction and inspired me to apply for other position within this company. I have recommended him to a few Vets that I have met and said they needed help finding employment or help with resume' writing and skills display for optimum exposure for the position desired. I know that Mr. Hardy is excellent with that, because of the assistance he has given me.
Deb and Alex are absolutely AMAZING. As a Veteran with some obstacles to overcome, they have both been so amazing and supportive. Deb was even so sweet as to write me a sweet very personalized message in a card congratulating me on my new position at my local hospital.
Amazing team- Has the pleasure of working with the wonderful Anna Kenelly for a mock interview and learned a lot about myself and my improvements (and what I'm good at! Gave me the confidence I really needed to shut down the inner critic). Excellent practice. Deborah Walker has been invaluable to my growth and my family's growth! She has helped my spouse with her job journey and personal growth which has led to an AMAZING JOB OFFER. Couldn't be more grateful for OJRV helping veterans anywhere any day.- absolutely accessible and always responsive. So appreciate yall!
I attended the week-long seminar in 2015 after retiring from 20+ years of active duty in the Army. Meeting the team and hearing about their personal stories inspired me. Classes were concise and the graduation / hiring fair was very professional. The information they shared regarding deliberately networking for that ideal position and developing confidence during interviews was invaluable. I continue to use the fundamentals they taught in the course. Would DEFINITELY provide them with more client referrals!
I was originally attending the BET seminar to support a Is fellow veteran who was down on his luck. I was completely blown away by the information I received In the insight to the job market. They were friendly, and professional I left there with tons of confidence knowing that I had an enlightened future ahead of me. Which in turn help me get the job that I have been trying to get for 8 years with no success. I am currently employed there to this day.
OJRV took a chance on me and hired me as a member of their marketing department. During the first month on the job, they assisted me in obtaining office equipment to elevate my remote-work setup - an unexpected blessing! The team members have been a joy to be in the presence of. They are positive, uplifting, and truly care about their clients and each other. I am happy to serve the veteran community alongside these amazing individuals.
Our family will be forever grateful to everyone at Operation Job Ready Veterans. Not only do they help the Veteran, but they help the entire family unit. My husband went through the training first, then I participated in December 2016. I was able to land a great job and my husband was as well. Fast forward to today (2022), career opportunities have only flourished from the initial offer. This training provided me with the tools and resources to grow my professional profile and be in the role I am today. Leadership from OJRV has stayed in contact with me over the years and has celebrated successes along the way. I have the privilege of working with many non-profits on a local and national level - OJRV is, by far, one of the leaders in the services they offer. You all are doing a great thing for families throughout Indiana. Building social connections in our community are paramount to fostering resilience and building on protective factors. I want to say thank you so much to everyone at OJRV!
From the beginning, I heard nothing but great things about OJRV from the veterans community. I was very impressed with how many individuals would share their positive experiences during the Career Seminars. They spoke of confidence building, fellowship, and learning multiple skills from Mike Espinda and the OJRV team. After getting a phone call from John Zeigler, I was excited to learn of a possible job opportunity working for OJRV. John's positive attitude and eagerness to help was contagious. My career working with veterans began at the beginning of this year with OJRV as an Employment Transition Manager. While working for them, I learned more skills than I can list off, but all equally important to serving my community. Not only did I gain the knowledge to be an Employment Transition Manager, but I also experienced a great deal of self-improvement from all the different training they made available to me. As a team leader, Deborah Walker has been amazing, and always there to help when I was struggling. She is a pillar in the community, the best example regarding Woman's Outreach, and dedicated to her work, all while supporting a family. Since I started working for OJRV, I have excelled in so many areas, and continue to grow along the way. All the employees at OJRV are great examples for me to learn from. Jocasta always has the team covered, Gerri diligently works to make sure that we have veterans to serve, Beverly has been passionately serving her community before and after her service in the military, Darron loves to compliment others on their accomplishments daily, Jordan brings her intelligence and experience as a military spouse to the table, Ryan enjoys giving back to veterans outside of work, Mike is an expert in training and Salesforce, John keeps OJRV up to date on social media, James is a resume guru, and of course Gene keeps the entire operation up and running by working persistently to make sure we all stay employed. I could write a novel about all the wonderful experiences, learning opportunities, and positive things I have to say about OJRV, but I believe the company speaks for itself with action. I am excited to continue working with them, and be a part of their growth in the future.
As both a veteran and family member of a veteran receiving services from Operation: Job Ready Veterans (OJRV), I can say without a doubt that their staff members live up to OJRV's mission statement - BRIDGING LIFE'S TRANSITIONAL GAPS FOR VETERANS, SERVICE MEMBERS AND MILITARY FAMILIES. They've helped me with my resume, interviewing skills, networking, and so much more. They've taken me in like family and empowered me to achieve my employment goals with confidence, and the assurance that they've got my back should I need them again.
I am a disabled veteran and have been in law enforcement for 21 years. I was looking at trying to leave the private sector and become a government employee. I was having some issues with my resume and reached out to Deborah Walker. Mrs. Walker immediately started to tweak my resume and since that moment I have been referred to several positions.
Mrs. Walker has been very professional and kind. The time she spent helping me was during an office move that she and her group were in the middle of completing. Mrs. Walker still assists me today. I am very pleased with the treatment I have received.
Operation Job Ready Vets has been, and continues to be, such a wonderful organization. I've been working with Deborah the past few weeks and from day one I felt seen, understood, and empowered. I received coaching and mentoring within the job application process itself as well as numerous mock interviews which have been invaluable. I can't say enough great things about this organization. A buoy of hope within a very large ocean of unknown and they will help you every step of the way. A special shout out to Deborah Walker for being first class professional, truly invested in your success as a veteran and job seeker, and just a wonderful person. You definitely want her in your corner!
I was able to have my resume reviewed, and was hired with employment with barely a pause from service to new role! I felt encouraged, and supported with the resources and time afforded by OJRV on my behalf. One of the best experiences I've ever had with a veteran organization that truly puts the veteran and servicemember first.
This organization was very helpful in providing me with the direction I needed to accomplish my professional goals while transitioning from active-duty.
Operation Job Ready Veterans was my missing piece of the puzzle for me. I attend their transition work shop program and it was the wake up call that I needed. I loved the personalized approach and assistance that I received in my career search, would recommend this organization to all veterans and family members of veterans.