Vern Evans
At MCON, a veteran-focused event in Las Vegas, Meg Hendricks, Head of Military and Veteran Affairs at Fiserv, highlighted the essential role corporations can play in easing veterans’ transition to civilian careers. While the journey out of military service presents challenges, companies like Fiserv are breaking down these barriers through targeted programs in employment, culture integration, and entrepreneurship. Hendricks, an Army veteran herself, offered insights into how Fiserv has developed a model that bridges the unique needs of veterans with corporate culture, all while cultivating a supportive environment for military families.
Supporting Transition: From Service to Civilian Careers
For veterans, moving from military roles into civilian workplaces often means navigating an unfamiliar landscape. The disciplined leadership and teamwork skills learned in service may not always align neatly with corporate job requirements. Hendricks shared her own story, explaining, “Everyone in the Army told me I could easily be an HR General Manager in the civilian world, but that’s just not a one-to-one translation.” Recognizing this gap, Fiserv developed a hiring model that goes beyond numbers, instead prioritizing quality placements that allow veterans to thrive by matching their skill sets with specific roles within the company.
By partnering with organizations like Hiring Our Heroes, Fiserv is ensuring that the veterans they employ not only fit well but are able to bring their unique experiences into impactful roles. Hendricks explained, “We know that when we hire veterans and military spouses, they bring skills and experiences that others simply don’t have,” adding that the right job fit is key to veterans’ long-term success.
Building a Culture that Celebrates Veteran Strengths
Once in the corporate world, veterans encounter an entirely different culture than the one they left in the military. Hendricks explained that while corporate environments may feel less formal than military hierarchies, there are still unspoken expectations that require adjustment. Veterans are well-positioned for this, she noted, as they’re accustomed to respecting roles and responsibilities and adapting to varying team dynamics. “Veterans often bring adaptability and resilience,” Hendricks pointed out, “and at Fiserv, we try to foster a culture where those strengths are recognized and supported.”
To that end, Fiserv has developed a culture that values veterans’ experiences and actively supports their integration. Their initiatives include a military leave policy and a sponsorship program that benefits veterans and military spouses, recognizing that a strong family support system is critical for veterans’ overall well-being and success.
Empowering Veteran Entrepreneurs
While many veterans transition into civilian careers, others are drawn to the path of entrepreneurship. Fiserv has committed to supporting these aspiring business owners through initiatives like the “Back to Business” program, which provides grants, mentorship, and visibility for veteran-owned businesses. In partnership with the Institute for Veterans and Military Families (IVMF), Fiserv has developed local entrepreneurship forums that connect veterans with mentors and resources needed to build successful businesses.
“These events aren’t just about content,” Hendricks emphasized. “They’re about bringing people together, building connections, and creating opportunities for veterans to meet others who can support their goals.” Through these programs, Fiserv is helping veterans develop essential business skills and navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship.
A Community of Support and Success
By focusing on both employment and entrepreneurship, companies like Fiserv are helping veterans achieve economic independence and build successful futures. Hendricks reflected on how veterans in the corporate world often support one another, creating a culture of camaraderie and resilience that benefits the entire community. As she explained, “We can hire 1,000 veterans, or we can help 1,000 veterans start and grow their businesses. Either way, we’re amplifying our impact on the military community.”
A Model for Sustainable Veteran Support
Companies supporting veterans in meaningful ways are not only making a difference in individual lives—they’re fostering stronger, more resilient communities. Fiserv’s initiatives demonstrate the transformative impact of a corporate commitment to veterans, from creating supportive workplaces to empowering business ownership. Hendricks’ message at MCON underscored a growing movement in corporate America to support veterans beyond just employment, offering them the tools and connections needed for lasting success in civilian life. Through this multi-dimensional approach, Fiserv and similar organizations are setting a new standard for veteran support, proving that when companies invest in veterans, they enrich their own culture and make a lasting impact on the community.
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