Military service attracts talented individuals, and the Department of Defense recognizes the importance of addressing the needs of both service members and their spouses. Ronald T. Keohane, assistant secretary of defense for manpower and reserve affairs, emphasized the significance of providing career opportunities for military spouses. The Defense Department has been working for over a decade to eliminate barriers to spouse employment, allowing spouses to build successful careers. Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III has shown a commitment to prioritizing the well-being of military families as part of the National Defense Strategy.
The transient nature of military life often poses challenges for spouses seeking to establish and advance their careers. Different states have varying requirements for professional licenses, making it difficult for spouses to maintain employment through frequent moves. Patricia M. Barron, deputy assistant secretary of defense for military community and family policy, shared her personal experience as a military spouse and highlighted the obstacles she faced in obtaining multiple state nursing licenses. The Department of Defense worked with states to enact interstate licensure compacts, benefiting not only military spouses but also other professionals in various fields.
The Department of Defense-State Liaison Office has been instrumental in collaborating with state officials to adopt licensure compacts, particularly in professions such as nursing and teaching. Keohane emphasized the importance of portability in addressing the challenges faced by military families and improving economic security. The Defense Department has made significant progress in promoting reciprocity and portability of licenses, particularly in behavioral health professions, where there is a growing demand for specialists to support service members and their families.
In addition to addressing licensure issues, the Department of Defense has focused on improving access to childcare for military spouses, recognizing the interconnected nature of barriers to employment. Through quality rating and improvement programs, the DOD has expanded childcare options in several states, certifying providers and benefiting thousands of military families. The DOD remains committed to working with Congress to address barriers to spouse employment and reduce the military spouse unemployment rate. By prioritizing the needs of military families and implementing innovative solutions, the Defense Department aims to support the career aspirations and well-being of military spouses.
