You probably know about the Military Friendly^® Employers list, which spotlights organizations that invest significant resources in recruiting America’s transitioning service members and veterans.

What you may not realize is that some states are doing the same—dedicating major initiatives and incentives to attract military-connected individuals and their families to live, work, and thrive within their borders.

Why?

In Ohio, state leaders and employers recognize that military talent is a powerful asset. Defense contractor Anduril certainly agrees. The company is building a 5-million-square-foot, state-of the-art manufacturing facility near Columbus. The Arsenal-1 factory will produce autonomous systems and weapons, creating more than 4,000 jobs over the next decade.

“One of the top reasons Anduril chose Ohio for Arsenal-1 is the talent coming out of the U.S. military and landing in Ohio,” said JP Nauseef, CEO of JobsOhio* and an Air Force veteran.

JobsOhio is the state’s private economic development corporation, tasked with helping corporations, entrepreneurs, and individuals build their businesses and careers in Ohio. Recruiting military talent is a strategic priority.

“We tell people that you can truly have it all in Ohio—the career and the lifestyle. We have an affordable cost of living, an amazing quality of life, and exciting opportunities with cutting-edge companies,” Nauseef said.

To make the process easier, JobsOhio created FindYourOhio.com, a platform where transitioning service members and veterans can explore employers, submit their résumé and answer a few quick questions. Their information is then matched to open roles with Ohio employers that align with their background, skills and preferences.

“There’s no need to fill out multiple applications. JobsOhio does the heavy lifting of the job search—all at no cost to the candidate. We try to make it as easy as possible,” Nauseef said.

Amid growing concern about the military hiring freeze and federal workforce reductions, JobsOhio wants transitioning service members and veterans to know there’s no shortage of opportunity in the Buckeye State—especially in aerospace and defense sectors eager for their skills.

The organization has also developed a comprehensive outreach strategy targeting impacted federal workers, aiming to raise awareness about the career opportunities and quality of life available in Ohio. The campaign spans both in-state and out-of-state efforts.

Quality of Life

The JobsOhio team understands that a successful transition isn’t only about employment—it’s about community, family and quality of life. That’s why Ohio has taken steps to support military families across the board.

The state was among the first to adopt military spouse occupational license reciprocity, easing employment transitions for spouses. Ohio recognizes military supportive schools through the Purple Star School Program and offers a range of veteran-focused benefits, including no tax on military retirement income and the Ohio G.I. Promise for higher education assistance. 

Ohio also celebrates its military families through the Hometown Heroes program, which provides free tickets to sporting events, concerts and other local attractions. Since its launch 20 years ago, the program has distributed more than 150,000 tickets.

“We continuously strive to make Ohio the most Military Friendly^® state in the country, without question,” Nauseef said. “Our men and women in uniform and veterans who have sacrificed so much can expect to build a happy and fulfilling life and career post-military for themselves and their families. Nowhere in this great country will you find a more welcoming home.”

Michigan Magic

Ohio’s neighbor to the north also makes a concerted effort to bring military and veteran families to their state.

The Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC)* recognizes the unique value veterans bring to the workforce and community and actively supports their transition to civilian life. 

In Michigan, veterans can leverage their military skills to launch high-paying, rewarding career—many with top employers like Ford, Shape Corp, United Wholesale Mortgage, General Motors, LG Energy Solution and Dow, all of which actively seek out veteran talent.

Michigan also offers an exceptional quality of life. The state is home to 62 veteran-friendly colleges and universities, and more than 400 employers committed to veteran-focused hiring and training initiatives. 

For families with children, Michigan provides a robust support system that includes the Tri-Share Child Care Program, which helps make childcare more affordable by sharing the cost between the employer, employee and the state. Participating families have seen their monthly childcare costs drop by an average of 65%.

Michigan also invests in education from an early age. The state’s Great Start Readiness Program offers free pre-K to eligible 4-year-olds, and several school districts—including Birmingham, East Grand Rapids, Forest Hills, and Byron Center—have received top rankings for academic excellence from Niche.

The MEDC markets Michigan to veterans through targeted campaigns, job fairs near military bases and partnerships with veteran-serving organizations like the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency and Hiring Our Heroes. The outreach highlights Michigan’s veteran-friendly culture and career opportunities in key industries that align with military skills. The Michigan Career Portal helps veterans and their spouses explore careers in Michigan tailored to their experience and training.

Veterans in Michigan can find career pathways in advanced manufacturing, engineering, aerospace and defense, life sciences and other industries. State agencies like the Michigan State Police, Department of Natural Resources and Michigan National Guard also offer roles aligned with veterans’ skills. With affordable communities, a low cost of living and access to year-round outdoor recreation, Michigan offers military families the opportunity to build meaningful lives.

The state began its focused veteran recruiting efforts in 2024 and has already seen an impact. LG Energy Solution Michigan Inc., for example, launched a high-profile campaign with support from Talent Action Team funding and produced a nationally broadcast segment hosted by Montel Williams, “Veterans Leading the Charge,” which aired on the American Forces Network and major U.S. networks. The segment significantly boosted awareness of Michigan’s career opportunities in the EV sector among the global military community.

Transitioning out of the military means making important choices, including where to live. Many states actively encourage veterans and their families to settle there by offering career opportunities, supportive communities and affordable living. In the August 2025 issue of G.I. Jobs, see what each state offers to you.

*Company is a paid client.

Read this full article and more in the August 2025 Issue of G.I. Jobs magazine.