Arizona is home to over half a million veterans. Each November, we pause to recognize those who have served our country and the families standing beside them. But honoring veterans should extend beyond a single day of recognition. It should also mean creating workplaces that recognize the skill, experience, and leadership our veterans bring to the workforce, which strengthens Arizona’s businesses, communities, and economic future. 

For Arizona’s business community, veterans are one of our greatest workforce assets. Veterans account for approximately 6% of Arizona’s workforce, representing a tremendous source of incredible knowledge, talent, and experience. They bring resilience, adaptability, accountability, and the ability to solve complex problems under pressure. These are qualities every employer values, regardless of industry or job title. 

However, the transition from military service to civilian employment is not always straightforward. Veterans may find themselves underemployed, in roles that don’t fully utilize their vast capabilities, or experience difficulty translating military experience to civilian employers. This is not a talent problem; it’s an opportunity for employers to rise to the occasion. 

The Greater Phoenix Chamber recognizes that a strong economy depends on a prepared, skilled, and adaptable workforce. As Arizona continues to grow and compete for talent, we cannot afford to overlook the experiences of those who have served. Creating a meaningful pathway for veterans to enter, grow, and lead in the civilian workforce is both a responsibility and a prudent investment in our region’s future. 

Arizona’s business community can help turn this commitment into action, with Chamber member USAA offering one example of what that can look like. Nearly one-quarter of USAA’s employees are veterans or military spouses, bringing firsthand military experience and perspective. USAA also invests in pathways that help service members and military spouses transition to civilian careers, including fellowship and career development opportunities. This approach reflects a generational legacy, built and carried forward by those who understand that service doesn’t end when a uniform comes off. 

USAA’s example reinforces an important truth: the values cultivated through military service belong in every workplace. Veterans understand the importance of teamwork and bringing people together around a shared objective. Their perspectives can strengthen teams, inform decision-making, and help organizations build cultures grounded in trust and accountability. 

But recognizing these strengths requires more than simply saying we value veterans; it requires employers to put that belief into practice. Businesses can start by examining their hiring practices and identifying gaps in how they understand how military experience applies to civilian roles. Employers can also invest in veteran-focused career navigation, mentorship, professional development, and advancement opportunities. Hiring is an important first step, but retention, belonging, and career growth are what turn an opportunity into a meaningful career. 

For Arizona, the stakes are particularly meaningful. A competitive economy depends on employers having access to the talent they need to grow, innovate, and succeed. When businesses recognize the full value of veterans’ experiences, we expand the talent pool and create more opportunities for individuals and families to thrive. 

This Veterans Day, we encourage employers across Arizona to consider what it means to turn appreciation into action. Connect with veteran-serving organizations. Create mentorship opportunities. Make room for military experience in your talent recruitment and development strategy. Most importantly, listen to veterans and learn what meaningful support looks like from their perspective.

Todd Sanders is the president and CEO of the Greater Phoenix Chamber.