This data brief provides key highlights for Asian American and Pacific Islanders service members and veterans. The information and statistics in this document are from various data collection efforts centered on military life, transition, employment, entrepreneurship, and higher education. Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders are one of the most culturally and linguistically diverse groups in the country (their heritage traces to over 30 different countries and ethnic groups and include over 100 languages and dialects).[1]
[1] Taken from U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (webpage). Asian American & Pacific Islander Asian American and Pacific Islander Special Emphasis Program. Retrieved from https://www.va.gov/ORMDI/DiversityInclusion/AAPI.asp
85% reported that joining the military was a GOODdecision.
Skills attributed to the military:
Teamwork87%
Work Ethic/Discipline87%
Mental Toughness83%
Transition
49% indicated they pursued a career DIFFERENT from their military specialty.
30% indicated they pursued a career SIMILAR to their military specialty.
Top 3 Transition Challenges:
Navigating VA administration or benefits63%
Getting a job61%
Skills translation48%
Employment
In 2020, Asian veteran unemployment was at 5.1%
Average earning for Asian /Pacific Islander veterans in 2019.
$0
Top 5 industries in 2019
Educational, Health and Social Services
Public Administration
Professional, Scientific, Management, Administrative, and Waste Management Services
Entrepreneurship
In 2019, 9% of Asian/Pacific Islander veterans were self-employed.
Current Barriers in 2020:
Lack of initial capital
44%
Current Economic Situation
32%
Federal regulations and policies
48%
Top Resources:
Procurement Technical Assistance Centers (PTAC)
47%
SBA District Offices
31%
Small Business Development Centers (SBDC)
31%
Higher Education
81% indicated that the military experience left a lasting impression in their education success.
In 2019, Asian /Pacific Islander post 9/11 veterans have achieved:
47% bachelor’s degree or higher
35% some college or associate degree
See the full infographic to learn more about in Asian American and Pacific Islanders in the military. From their service experience to their post-military life.