As a TVC Employment Services Family Career Advisor, Dee Stewart assists military spouses and dependents of service members to find employment. Having been a military spouse herself, she understands the challenges military spouses face in maintaining a career as they move from one duty station to the next. Stewart said she “knows first-hand what it feels like to seek employment every two years and have to endure rejection.” It is this past experience, over 20 years of it, that drives her success in helping military spouses and dependents.
Stewart works in TVC Employment Services Central Texas District and has developed some strong relationships with area employers. Among these is the City of Harker Heights, a relationship which has grown over the past five years. This helps Stewart stay in the know and refer her clients to openings that fit their qualifications, skills, and experience. The relationship also helps her track the status of applications by contacting the city’s Human Resources (HR) Department to inform them of clients who apply and to request feedback.
One of the early successes of this partnership was with the family member of an active duty servicemember stationed at Fort Cavazos. The family member was a college student seeking a part time position that would fit her course schedule. Stewart was informed by Harker Heights HR of a part time position with the City’s Library. Stewart’s client applied for the position. Stewart followed up and was informed her client was selected to interview. “Due to Dee’s outstanding guidance, the client interviewed well and was offered the position,” said Paul Julio, who works with Stewart in TVC Employment Services Central Texas District. The Harker Heights HR Director was very pleased with Stewart’s referred client’s interview and work ethic. So much so that when new opportunities within the city open, she reaches out directly to Stewart to inquire if she has any qualified clients interested in the positions.
Another Harker Heights success story is with their Police Department. The military spouse of an active duty service member referred by Stewart was hired by Harker Heights PD and promoted within a year. Additionally, Harker Heights PD hired the family member of a veteran who had recently graduated from college and was seeking experience in law enforcement.
Stewart further cultivates her relationship with the City of Harker Heights by ensuring they are aware of hiring events to assist in their recruitment efforts and by conducting resume workshops for the Police Department’s youth program. Additionally, Stewart nominated Harker Heights for DAV employer award in December of 2023 and it was recognized with a 2024 DAV Patriot Employer Award
“Dee’s passion for creating success for her community helps ensure that military spouses and their dependents don’t fall through the cracks of being unemployed or underemployed,” said Julio. “She also ensures the are appreciated for the high value they bring to employers.”
Get help with your job search from the TVC Veteran Employment Services team. They can be found in 90 locations including 70 American Job Centers across Texas. Find your local office.
