Wisconsin Ranks Top Three for Veteran Employment
The state places veterans in long-term jobs at one of the strongest rates in the nation, according to a new federal benchmark.
Updated on Nov. 10, 2026 in Military Jobs
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Wisconsin has ranked among the top three states nationally for connecting military veterans with long-term employment, Governor Tony Evers announced. The state has been in the top five for veteran placement for four consecutive years.
Why it matters
The ranking reflects sustained work by state agencies to help veterans transition into civilian careers, a priority for the roughly 300,000 veterans living in Wisconsin. It also signals that the state's veteran outreach and employer programs are producing measurable results.
Wisconsin placed veterans in long-term jobs at a rate ranking third or better nationally under the federal UNTEER benchmark, sustaining a top-five position for four consecutive years. The state is home to roughly 300,000 veterans, and the source does not report the exact placement percentage.
The players
Tony Evers
Tony Evers is the Governor of Wisconsin, the state's chief executive who oversees its workforce and veterans agencies.
Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development
The Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development is the state agency that runs workforce training, job placement, and employment services for residents.
Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs
The Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs is the state agency that provides benefits, healthcare access, and support services to veterans and their families.
The details
The Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development and the Department of Veterans Affairs run joint initiatives offering career tools and transition services. Core programs include the Disabled Veteran Outreach Program, Local Veterans Employment Representatives, and the Vets Ready Employer Initiative, which honors employers building support systems for veteran staff.
Timeline
Nov. 10, 2026: Governor Tony Evers announced the top three national veteran employment ranking.
Roadmap
Wisconsin's results are measured against the federal UNTEER benchmark, which tracks how well states place veterans in long-term jobs. Sustaining a top-five showing for four years places the state among the leaders in a competitive national effort to convert military service into civilian careers.
Veterans in Wisconsin can use state career tools and transition services run jointly by the Department of Workforce Development and the Department of Veterans Affairs. Employers can pursue the Vets Ready Employer Initiative to build workplace support for veteran staff.
The takeaway
Veterans seeking civilian work in Wisconsin have access to a coordinated set of state programs, and employers can strengthen placement by joining the Vets Ready Employer Initiative.
Further reading
For related coverage, see Military Jobs in Wisconsin.
Live Poll
Do you think Wisconsin is doing enough to help veterans find good jobs?
