“All Things Work” Podcast S2, E5
How Employers Can Bridge the Gap to Hire and Retain Military Spouses
Host Anne Sparaco discusses the unique challenges experienced by military spouses with Allison Chamberlayne, Director of Operations for Hiring Our Heroes, which connects military families with meaningful employment through initiatives.
They explore the unique challenges these individuals face, such as frequent relocations and limited job opportunities, and discuss the importance of creating inclusive programs tailored to their needs. Chamberlain shares insights on the valuable skills military spouses bring, including flexibility, resilience, and strong work ethic, and highlights the role of Hiring Our Heroes in connecting military families with meaningful employment. The conversation emphasizes the benefits organizations can gain by tapping into this dynamic talent pool and offers guidance on strategies for effective recruitment and retention.
Episode Guest
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Allison Chamberlayne
Allison Chamberlayne is the Director of Operations for Hiring Our Heroes, an initiative of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation connecting transitioning service members, veteran, military spouses, and caregivers with American businesses to create economic opportunity and a strong and diversified workforce. In her role, Allison focuses on day-to-day program operations, staff development, process improvement, and strengthening partnerships.
Allison is a military spouse who served alongside her husband, a retired Army Engineer, for over 25 years. She joined Hiring Our Heroes in January of 2018, as a part of the Corporate Fellowship Program. Over the past four and a half years, Allison has held several roles to include Operations Manager, Program Manager of Corporate Fellowship program in the National Capital Region and Deputy Director of the Military Spouse Fellowship Program.
Before her career at Hiring Our Heroes, Allison faced the same employment challenges as those she currently serves. She has held full time, part time and temporary positions in multiple fields to include Accounting, Logistics, Marketing, Finance and Education. This has made her a passionate advocate for military spouses in their pursuit of meaningful employment opportunities.
Allison has a bachelor’s degree in Urban Affairs from Virginia Tech and being a diehard Hokie consumes much of her and her family’s free time. She resides in McLean, VA with her husband, Ed (VT ’93, ‘02, ‘11 ) and son Eddie (VT ’24). Her daughter, Emma (UVA ’20) lives nearby and tolerates the VT fanaticism.
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