Transitioning from military service to civilian employment can feel overwhelming. For many Veterans, finding a job that values their skills and offers long-term stability takes time, guidance, and the right support.
For Mary Hatchett, that support came through the Columbia Job Center and the Jobs for Veterans State Grant program. With commitment, partnership, and a clear plan, she turned her experience into a new career with the Missouri Department of Corrections.
Connecting to the Right Support
In July 2025, Mary completed the Veteran Eligibility Screening Tool and was enrolled in workforce services through the Columbia Job Center. Shortly after, she began working one-on-one with a Disabled Veterans Outreach Program specialist.
During her initial assessment, Mary held a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice administration and had previous experience as an investigator. Her goal was clear. She wanted to return to a career connected to investigation or public safety.
Together, Mary and her DVOP specialist reviewed labor market information, explored career options, and built an Individual Employment Plan with short-term and long-term goals, providing structure, focus, and a clear path forward.
Preparing for Employment
Over the following months, Mary stayed actively engaged in services. She updated her resume, uploaded it to her Missouri job seeker profile, and attended multiple hiring events at the Columbia Job Center, including the monthly Walk-In Wednesdays hiring event. Her consistent participation and follow-through helped her move steadily toward job readiness.
The Workforce Link Podcast offers forward thinking conversations for the workforce, linking employers and job seekers to a brighter tomorrow. Check out the details here…
Turning Opportunity Into Employment
With continued guidance, Mary attended a Department of Corrections hiring event at the Columbia Job Center in December. After learning more about available positions, she followed up with staff, asked thoughtful questions, and submitted her application.
That effort paid off.
In January 2026, Mary began full-time employment as a Correctional Officer with the Missouri Department of Corrections in Boonville. The position aligns with her background in criminal justice and leverages the leadership, organizational, and customer service skills she developed through military service.
A Path Forward for Veterans
Mary’s success reflects what is possible when Veterans are connected to the right resources and supported every step of the way. Through the JVSG program and the Columbia Job Center, she found not just a job, but a career with stability and room to grow.
Veterans across central Missouri have access to the same services, guidance, and support.
If you are a Veteran looking for your next opportunity or an employer interested in hiring Veterans, learn more at cwdregion.com/vetservices.
For safety and privacy reasons related to her position, a representative image is used in place of a personal photo. This photo is from the Missouri Department of Corrections website.