Introducing the Military and Veterans Inclusion Committee: Fostering Engagement, Service, and Integration of the Military and Veteran Community Across SIOP and Beyond

The Military and Veterans Inclusion (MVI) Committee advances how professional organizations—and the I-O psychology community—support military-affiliated individuals in career transition and beyond. As a standing SIOP committee, MVI collaborates with Department of Defense (DoD) liaisons and internal stakeholders to promote inclusion, accessibility, and equitable career pathways throughout the employment lifecycle. Through strategic leadership, research, advocacy, and programming, MVI not only honors military service, it builds infrastructure for postservice career success.

This article explores the committee’s mission, structure, values, focus areas, and accomplishments, positioning MVI as a model for how professional organizations can meaningfully engage with the military-connected workforce.

If you share MVI’s passion for honoring and empowering those who served, why not turn that passion into action?  The MVI Committee welcomes allies, advocates, and collaborators to join us in advancing support for the military-affiliated community. Continue reading to understand the areas where you can engage with MVI initiatives, and connect with the MVI Chair to start the conversation.

Introduction

Military service demands discipline, resilience, and deep personal commitment from all affiliates. However, many service members, veterans, military families, and even staff or contractors of the Department of Defense (DoD) encounter challenges transitioning into civilian professional roles, including within I-O psychology and related fields. Recognizing this gap, the Military and Veterans Inclusion (MVI) Committee works to create pathways for inclusion and support across SIOP and beyond.

More than a support group, the MVI is a strategic body advancing SIOP’s mission through advocacy, outreach, and integration of military-affiliate perspectives. This article explores how the MVI is transforming organizational culture by promoting veteran readiness and fostering long-term engagement within the I-O psychology community.

MVI defines military affiliate(s) as those who have served, are currently serving in active or reserve duties, are part of military families, and/or are part of the connected workforce, including those across the DoD/government contractor communities.

Mission and History

Founded in 2018 as an ad-hoc group and ratified as a standing SIOP committee in 2022, the MVI Committee builds upon the original SIOP Veterans Initiative launched in 2011. The committee’s mission is rooted in a simple yet powerful goal: to advocate for and integrate military and veteran perspectives across all areas of the employment cycle, workforce development, and organizational life.

Using the tools of I-O psychology, committee members conduct research, share best practices, provide expert consultation, and educate stakeholders on the value military affiliates bring to the workplace. Their work not only diversifies professional communities but also enables more equitable and mission-aligned hiring, development, and retention practices.

The committee’s foundation is built on the work and leadership of pioneers, including Kristin Saboe, Nathan Ainspan, AJ Thurston, and Destinee Prete. Their dedication was instrumental in moving this initiative forward, and we remain deeply grateful for their contributions.

Purpose and Core Values

The MVI advances research, career development, and institutional collaboration to improve outcomes for military affiliates within I-O psychology and beyond. Through targeted outreach efforts—such as the annual November “Veterans Day Takeover”—and partnerships with senior military leaders, the committee raises awareness and strengthens cross-sector engagement.

Core Values

Reflecting both SIOP and military traditions, the MVI Committee embraces the following shared values:

• Service and Commitment: Honoring the sacrifice of military affiliates by working to create inclusive, supportive environments that foster career success.
• Respect, Honor, and Integrity: Upholding dignity and ethical standards in all professional activities.
• Equity: Advocating for fair access to opportunities and supporting skill-based pathways to success.
• Empowerment: Using evidence-based practices to support successful transitions and long-term advancement.
• Collaboration and Inclusion: Building diverse, cross-sector partnerships that include military perspectives in education, practice, and research.

Our mission is simple: to strengthen the military and veteran communities through advocacy and research—advancing SIOP’s goals in service to those who serve.

Committee Structure

The MVI is structured to ensure strategic oversight, operational effectiveness, and stakeholder diversity. Roles include

• Chair: Leads strategic initiatives and represents the committee at senior leadership levels.
• Chair-in-Training: Oversees operational planning and subcommittee coordination.
• Military Affiliates: Bring firsthand experience and community insight.
• DoD Representatives and Practitioners: Ensure military relevance and compliance alignment.
• Student and Academic Liaisons: Support military-affiliated students in educational settings.
• Military Family Advocates: Represent spouses and dependents.
• External Advisors: Offer perspective from federal and community veteran services.

Subcommittees focus on targeted areas such as career development, outreach, policy, partnership, and internal engagement.

Strategic Areas of Focus

1. Transition Support

• Resume and skill translation guidance
• Peer-mentoring programs
• Curated resources for navigating benefits and separation

2. Employment and Career Development

• Collaborations with SIOP’s Career Services Committee
• Veteran-friendly hiring and recruitment advocacy
• Tailored offerings for military spouses and dependents
• Policy recommendations for improving veteran access and support

3. Recruitment and Integration

• Advocating for veteran inclusion in committee and conference activities
• Hosting community-focused events and interest groups
• Engaging with Veteran Service Organizations (VSOs)
• Conducting needs assessments and data collection

4. Recognition and Visibility

• Advising on military-inclusive policies
• Celebrating service through events and public campaigns
• Showcasing military-affiliates’ achievements

Recent Initiatives and Accomplishments

Expanding Student Volunteer Opportunities

In July 2025, the MVI Committee successfully advocated for changes to SIOP’s student volunteer policies to better accommodate non-traditional students, such as veterans. Working with Enrica Ruggs, Heather Flattery, Michelle Goro, and SIOP President Scott Tannenbaum, the committee gained approval for expanded student representation—up to 50%—on MVI, setting a precedent for other committees.

Career Services Partnership

Through new collaboration with SIOP’s Career Services Committee, the MVI secured space at the 2025 Conference Career Fair and established plans for dedicated online resources focused on transition and career opportunities for military families. Special thanks to Melissa Haudek, Lauren Kiproff, and Jess Thornton for their partnership and support.

Ongoing DoD Liaison Engagement

Since the committee’s inception, Dr. Nathan Ainspan has served as the DoD liaison, offering critical insights and support to SIOP members navigating military-civilian transitions. His continued involvement is a cornerstone of the committee’s success.

Expanding Partnerships

Looking ahead, the MVI seeks to strengthen and expand collaboration opportunities with internal and external stakeholders, including

• Career Services Committee: Career preparation and veteran hiring initiatives
• Disability, Inclusion, and Accessibility Committee: Joint programming for accessible conference and employment practices
• Membership Committee: Outreach to veteran-owned businesses and military affiliates
• TIP Editorial Board: Contributing features and thought leadership on military engagement
• Other D&I Committees: Shared activities to promote diversity, agility, and inclusion
• Department of Defense (DoD) and Department of Veterans Affairs (VA): Expanded resource development and transition planning

How to Get Involved

Contact the MVI Committee here, through our Google form, to share your interest in general or in any of the following initiatives:

• Submitting a story or article for publication
• Volunteering on a subcommittee or project
• Becoming a mentor to transitioning professionals or students
• Sharing your experience using an I-O degree in military or federal contexts for our upcoming feature series
• Starting a discussion on partnership opportunities or new initiatives

Conclusion

The Military and Veterans Inclusion Committee plays a vital role in making SIOP a more inclusive, forward-thinking organization. By combining evidence-based advocacy, community building, and strategic collaboration, the committee supports service members and veterans in continuing their service—this time, through impactful civilian careers.

As more organizations seek to better include the military community, MVI offers a tested, scalable model rooted in respect, equity, and excellence. With continued engagement and shared vision, we can ensure that veterans and their families are not only welcomed—but empowered—as part of the I-O psychology community.