Goldbelt Joins the Defense Department in Military Spouse Employment Partnership

On Jan. 29, 2025, Goldbelt Incorporated will officially join the Defense Department’s Spouse Education and Career Opportunities program, the Military Spouse Employment Partnership (MSEP), during an annual induction ceremony in Crystal City, Virginia. As part of this partnership, Goldbelt joins more than 200 new MSEP organizations, adding to the network of more than 850 employers dedicated to recruiting, hiring, promoting and retaining military spouses in meaningful careers.

Military spouses often face unique challenges in maintaining consistent employment due to factors related to military life including frequent relocations. Despite being highly qualified, military spouses often experience a 21% unemployment rate, and a 25% wage gap compared to their civilian counterparts. Joining this partnership reflects Goldbelt’s values as an Alaska Native Corporation, recognizing the longstanding pride Alaska Natives take in military service—historically serving at one of the highest rates per capita of any ethnic group in the United States. This partnership also reflects Goldbelt’s core value of fostering economic opportunities that empower individuals and communities. Goldbelt recognizes its responsibility to advance initiatives that create meaningful impact—both for military families and the broader communities they serve.

Through the MSEP initiative, military spouses are connected with hundreds of partner employers who are committed to supporting their professional growth and success. Since its inception in 2011, MSEP employers have hired more than 340,000 military spouses, helping them build stable, fulfilling careers. Providing career opportunities to military spouses not only strengthens the financial stability of military families but also enhances retention and military readiness — essential components of national security. Goldbelt’s dedication to fostering partnerships that sustain and grow resilient communities aligns seamlessly with these goals, ensuring military spouses have the support and resources needed to thrive both professionally and personally.

“Goldbelt is proud to be part of this important initiative to empower and support military spouses across the nation,” said McHugh Pierre, Goldbelt President & CEO. “We are deeply committed to supporting military spouses and service members. We are grateful for their service and sacrifice. Our involvement in MSEP reflects our dedication to values such as stewardship, honoring heritage, and fostering innovation for future generations.”

The Defense Department established the Spouse Education and Career Opportunities program to provide education and career assistance to military spouses worldwide, offering free comprehensive resources and tools designed to help spouses meet their career and education goals. Resources include free career coaching services, the My Career Advancement Account Scholarship, the Military Spouse Career Accelerator Pilot and the Military Spouse Transition Program.