We’re all navigating this fast-changing environment, doing our best to adjust to the rapid shift to remote working and online learning. This can feel even more uncertain for our military and veteran community as they transition to civilian careers. This transition is daunting in any circumstance, but a fragile economy and shifting work dynamics creates even greater barriers for those who are separating from military service. Cisco continues to be committed to helping service members chart a clear path to meaningful employment, especially during these unsettling times.
For decades, Cisco has been developing the technology and solutions that enable virtual collaboration and remote working. In fact, many people are surprised (and sometimes a bit envious) when I share that I’ve worked remotely for nearly 15 years. Cisco enables me to work from anywhere, which these days is right from the comfort of my home in Virginia. For some, working remotely is more of a stretch that takes getting used to. That said, many are taking this opportunity to gain new skills to become better prepared for an expanding virtual work evolution.
One of our strongest partnerships is with Onward to Opportunity (O2O), part of Syracuse University’s Institute for Veteran and Military Families (IVMF). O2O is well-positioned for an increased wave of online learners seeking to gain relevant credentials that can lead to employment. Their portfolio of over 40 free distance learning training courses, in both technical and soft skills, have helped train over 26,000 service members and their spouses since 2015. Many alumni who have completed O2O courses have achieved either direct employment or job growth as a result of their training.