This article originally appeared here, at substack.com
Respect Service. Reward Hard Work. Build Opportunity in the Private Sector.
I’ve been on both sides of this. I’ve worked in government, and I’ve worked in the private sector. And I can tell you, it’s not always easy to make that transition. As the government evolves, it can leave those who served faithfully stranded without a clear path forward.
That’s not good for them, it’s not good for their families, and it’s not good for our economy. But we can have solutions to support career transitions.
We should respect their service. But respect also means giving them an on-ramp to what’s next going into the private sector where their leadership, discipline, and skills can keep building Virginia’s future.
Here’s how we do it:
Service-to-Workforce Pathways
We’re going to build real bridges from public service into private work. That means working with businesses, trade schools, and universities to connect the dots so when a government job ends, there’s a clear road to new opportunity. And not just any opportunity: high-demand fields like the trades, health care, cybersecurity, and logistics.
Private-Sector Incentives
Virginia businesses need workers. Public servants need jobs. We’ll bring those two together. My plan gives businesses a short-term tax incentive to hire and train former public employees but only if those hires stick. This is about results, not just paperwork.
Skill Certification & Accountability
We’ll build a system that translates government service into private-sector qualifications. Management, leadership, technical expertise because those skills matter. Workers will have skin in the game too. Training and accountability will be part of the deal.
Respect for Taxpayers
And let me be clear: this isn’t about creating another bloated government program. This is about keeping it lean, efficient, and cost-conscious. Families deserve better than more bureaucracy.
I know how tough a career transition can be. I’ve lived it. That’s why I’m committed to making sure Virginia respects the men and women who’ve served, while also helping them step into what’s next.
The bottom line? Public service should be honored, but the end goal has to be opportunity, independence, and private-sector success.
That’s how we build strong families, strong communities, and a strong Virginia.