DOD is expanding the program that connects military spouses with fellowships in hopes they will segue into employment, as Military Times reported.

The Military Spouse Career Accelerator pilot paid spouses stipends for 12-month fellowships. DOD officials said 86% of those fellowships led to employment.

“The results speak volumes,” DOD told Military Times. “Military spouses bring resilience, adaptability and high-impact skills to their fellowship placements, and employers are noticing.”

A Pause Before Becoming Permanent

DOD has stopped accepting applications for the program as it prepares for a Jan. 1 launch of the expanded, permanent program, which was ordered by Congress.

Officials told Military Times that the expanded program will offer higher stipends and will extend to military spouses stationed overseas.

Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Loriann Dauscher