WASHINGTON, D.C. (AVC News) — The U.S. Department of Agriculture is launching a nationwide effort to recruit veterans, transitioning service members and military spouses into careers aimed at strengthening the nation’s food supply and rural communities.
Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins announced the initiative Wednesday, saying it combines an expanded partnership with the Department of War’s SkillBridge Program and a new “100 Hires in 100 Days” campaign.
The effort is designed to fill mission-critical positions across USDA while helping military personnel transition into civilian careers.
Through the expanded SkillBridge partnership, eligible active-duty service members can spend up to their final 180 days of military service working with USDA while continuing to receive military pay and benefits. Opportunities include cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, financial management, contracting, wildland fire management and geospatial analysis.
USDA also is encouraging veterans, transitioning service members and military spouses to apply for jobs through existing veteran hiring authorities and the department’s Military Spouse and Veteran Employment Program candidate database.
Rollins said the initiative recognizes that “Agricultural Security is National Security,” adding that veterans’ leadership and technical skills will help protect the nation’s food supply, support farmers and strengthen rural America.
According to USDA, about 200,000 service members transition from active duty to civilian life each year.
More information about the programs is available through the USDA’s veteran employment resources.
Last Updated on July 30, 2026 by AVC News
