Insights

Championing Veteran Talent in Federal Contracting as a V3 Certified Employer

Written by Jessica Haddad, SHRM-SCP, CQA, PHR | May 16, 2025 1:45:03 PM

We’re proud to share that Markon is now officially V3 Certified through the Virginia Values Veterans (V3) Program—a significant milestone in our ongoing commitment to hiring and supporting veterans and military-connected professionals.

As a federal contractor, we understand the value of precision, discipline, and mission-first thinking. Veterans bring all of that—and more. Through the V3 Program, we’re strengthening our ability to connect with this highly skilled talent pool while enhancing our competitiveness in the federal marketplace.

It was quite a shock when I attended the V3 Employer Conference this year. I could not believe the number of resources and networking opportunities available through this organization, nor could I believe that after so many years supporting the federal contracting community in Virginia, I had not heard about this tremendous program. I ran into so many people in my network who were already a part of the V3 Program and had nothing but passion and good things to say about it.

In case there are others in the state of Virginia who have also not heard about V3, I’d love to highlight some information for employers and those in the military community who can and should take advantage of this program.

Be on the lookout for more information from Markon about how we’ll collaborate with the V3 program to make an impact in our community!

What Is the V3 Program?

The Virginia Values Veterans (V3) Program, led by the Virginia Department of Veterans Services, equips employers across the Commonwealth with tools to recruit, hire, train, and retain veterans. With thousands of service members transitioning out of the military each year, V3 helps companies tap into a deep, capable workforce while fulfilling a vital civic mission. If you’re a company in the state of Virginia that hasn’t heard of the V3 Program, look into it asap. It is a FREE certification that opens doors to so many resources.

Explore the full program: V3 Program Overview

Why V3 Matters in Federal Contracting

In the world of federal contracts, there’s no margin for error—and no room for mediocre talent. Veterans are ideally suited for the federal contracting environment thanks to their experience working in mission-driven, highly regulated, and often high-pressure settings with the same or similar clients we support.

Furthermore, veterans usually already have the security clearances that our customers look for, making them the perfect candidate for a seamless crossover. Markon has always been an advocate for hiring Veterans, but this program helps us take it a step further from being a veteran “friendly” employer to becoming a veteran “thriving” employer.

By becoming V3 Certified, we now have access to:

  • Veteran-focused hiring strategies tailored to employers like us
  • A pipeline of cleared or clearance-eligible candidates ready to contribute on day one
  • Recognition as a veteran-ready employer, which can enhance our position in competitive bids and partner networks, as well as help our branding
  • Connection to state-level workforce resources, including grants for hiring and retaining Veterans
  • Support for military spouses, who bring their own unique strengths and often hold clearances
  • Tools and Training, ranging from help translating military resumes to setting up a thriving internal veteran program within your company
  • Free Advertising, bi-weekly newsletters where you can publish your openings
  • Events, participation in networking, and hiring events

Resources for Veterans & Military-Connected Talent

If you are a Veteran, Transitioning Service Member, or Military Spouse in the Virginia Area, make sure to check out the V3 Program. There are so many free resources and passionate individuals on the team who want to help you.

Below is a list of some of the areas you can get assistance:

  • Employment assistance
  • Access to hands-on job training
  • Career coaching and resume writing
  • Access to higher education
  • Mentorship and leadership courses
  • Licensure/credentialing pathways
  • Legal support services
  • Filing a VA disability claim
  • Access to health care/insurance
  • Access to mental/behavioral health assistance
  • Stable housing or financial assistance
  • Entrepreneurship assistance
  • Child care information

A Strategic Advantage

Federal contracting is about delivering results with integrity, speed, and strategic foresight. Veterans naturally align with these priorities. Through our V3 Certification, we’re doubling down on our commitment to operational excellence by integrating more military talent into our teams.

We thank the Virginia Department of Veterans Services for this partnership and look forward to continuing our mission with an even stronger workforce.

Are you a veteran or military spouse interested in joining our team?

Explore open positions and connect with our Talent Acquisition team at Security Clearance Jobs | Join Team Markon