C
ushman and Wakefield, a commercial real estate firm, is actively seeking out veterans as top talent, not charity cases. According to Chairman of Global Brokerage Bruce Mosler, the company hires veterans because they bring exceptional skills and values that boost morale and transform the work culture.

    As one of the nation's top ten military-friendly employers, Cushman and Wakefield has successfully hired over 1,400 veterans through its Military and Veteran Program (MVP). This year alone, the firm plans to add more than 500 new veteran hires. The MVP program provides twelve weeks of on-site training and mentorship for recently deployed service members struggling to translate their military skills into civilian careers.

    Veterans often face challenges when writing resumes or showcasing their skills, but with guidance from MVP staff, most find that their experience aligns with available job opportunities. Common career paths include IT, engineering, facilities management, marketing, and human resources. Many participants receive a job offer at the end of the program.

    James DeLong, an Army veteran who went through the program in 2022, credits MVP with helping him thrive in his transition to corporate culture. Cushman and Wakefield also plans to hire 100 military spouses this year through the Department of Defense's Military Spouse Employment Partnership Program, recognizing the unique challenges faced by military families.

    After launching a successful veteran recruitment program, members of the MVP team have advised over 100 other companies on building their own programs, aiming to make a broader impact across corporate America. As Mosler emphasizes, Cushman and Wakefield employs veterans not just as a gesture of gratitude but because they bring invaluable skills and perspectives that enrich the company culture.