TLDR: The Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) program offers personalized support to help Veterans with service-connected disabilities transition into civilian careers. Eligible Veterans can use these benefits to attend VA-approved programs like Code Platoon, where they receive hands-on training in in-demand tech skills. Learn how to apply to VR&E, meet eligibility requirements, and use your benefits to start a high-growth career in technology.
The Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) program—formerly known as Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (Voc Rehab)—is a critical VA benefit offered by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). It helps Veterans with service-connected disabilities successfully transition into meaningful, sustainable civilian careers.
VR&E Tracks for Veterans
The VR&E program is structured into five customized career support tracks, based on a Veteran’s goals, disability rating, and employment status:
1. Reemployment: Helps Veterans return to their pre-deployment job, including workplace modifications or accommodations for service-related disabilities.
2. Rapid Access to Employment: Focuses on helping Veterans find employment quickly using their existing skills. This track offers:
- Education coverage
- Job search tools
- Resume development
- Interview preparation
3. Self-Employment: Ideal for Veterans with entrepreneurial goals, this track supports:
- Business plan development
- Small business training
- Access to startup resources and mentorship
4. Employment Through Long-Term Services: For Veterans facing difficulties in their current roles due to service-connected disabilities, VR&E helps them get additional education or training to shift into fields better aligned with their abilities.
5. Independent Living: Designed for Veterans who may not immediately return to work due to disability. It offers:
- Counseling and resource referrals
- Home accessibility evaluations
- Support for improving quality of life
Eligibility for VR&E
Eligibility for VR&E services requires a service-connected disability rating of at least 10% and an honorable discharge status. Veterans can apply online at va.gov or by calling 1-800-827-1000.
Launch a Tech Career with Code Platoon and VR&E
Looking for a Veteran-focused path into software engineering? Code Platoon is a VA-approved training provider that helps Veterans transition into the tech industry.
By using VR&E benefits, you can embark on a transformative journey with Code Platoon’s immersive software engineering and AI Cloud and DevOps bootcamps. These programs are designed to equip you with the technical skills, certifications, and career support needed to thrive in today’s tech-driven job market.
How to Use Your VR&E benefits at Code Platoon
Follow these steps to use VR&E toward Code Platoon’s technical training programs:
- Confirm Eligibility: Ensure you meet the VR&E eligibility criteria for service-connected disability and discharge status.
- Apply for VR&E: Visit the VA’s online portal or call to start your application.
- Choose Code Platoon: When working with your VA counselor, select Code Platoon as your preferred VR&E training provider.
- Enroll in Code Platoon: Complete the application and get accepted to one of our programs.
- Begin Your Journey: Once approved, start training and join a community dedicated to Veteran success in tech.
Your military background has instilled in you discipline, resilience, and a unique perspective—all traits that are highly valued in the tech industry. With VR&E benefits and Code Platoon’s practical, hands-on coding bootcamps, the path to a rewarding career in software engineering is not just a dream but a tangible reality. Embrace this opportunity and take the first step towards a dynamic future in technology. Remember, your skills, experience, and determination can open doors to incredible possibilities in the tech world.
