A Great American Defense Community Striving to Hire Our Heroes

Behind our active-duty military members are more brave men and women sacrificing for our national security. Military spouses are part of a strong, proud military community that counts more than 5 million warriors, family members and caregivers around the world.* These talented individuals, who face the challenges of finding new careers at each duty station during multiple deployments and moves, face a staggering 22% unemployment rate.** 

In an effort to address this growing workforce issue, the Economic Development Commission of Florida’s Space Coast (EDC), in collaboration with Hiring Our Heroes, launched the Space Coast Military Spouse Economic Empowerment Zone (MSEEZ). 

The Space Coast MSEEZ will tackle military spouse un- and underemployment and connect this talented group with career opportunities by bringing together businesses, community partners, and nonprofit organizations to identify opportunities as well as barriers to entry for military spouses seeking meaningful employment within Brevard County. 

Led by Julia Williford of Leonardo DRS, The Space Coast MSEEZ will become the 22nd working group in the nation since 2018, and only the second in the state of Florida. 

“The establishment of the Space Coast MSEEZ will ease the transition of military spouses into our local workforce and allow them to begin employment quicker once relocating to the area,” said Florida state Sen. Tom A. Wright, Chairman of the Military and Veterans Affairs, Space and Domestic Security Committee. “Military spouses are a tremendous addition to the staffing needs of the Space Coast and bring a diversified, dedicated and well-rounded expertise that employers are looking for.”

To foster continued assistance for the military community, the EDC also launched the Space Coast Military Friendly Guide on SpaceCoastSalutes.com to provide a one-stop spot for military and their families to learn more about relocating to, and living on, Florida’s Space Coast. It is these efforts, plus more, which led the Space Coast to receive the 2022 distinction of a Great American Defense Community — a program designed to recognize and celebrate communities with an exceptional commitment to improving the lives of service members, veterans and their families.

Learn More

To read more about MSEEZ or share an open position with the Space Coast MSEEZ, visit www.HiringOurHeroes.org/Employers/MSEEZ/ 

Florida’s Space Coast is a 2022 Great American Defense Community. Learn more at DefenseCommunities.org/GA