EOEJournal JUNE/JULY 2026

eoe journal Celebrate minds of all kinds.

June/July 2026

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eoejournal equal opportunity employment journal

Table of Contents

Editorial Comment

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welcoming workplace is one where every employee feels respected, supported, and able to do their best work. For disabled workers, this means having access to the tools, resources, and accommodations they need to succeed. Whether it's an accessible workspace, assistive technology, or flexible work arrangements, small adjustments can make a significant difference. When employees feel included and valued, they are more likely to be engaged, productive, and confident in their roles.

Creating an inclusive environment goes beyond physical accessibility—it's also about workplace culture. Coworkers and managers who are understanding, respectful, and open to different needs help build a stronger team. Encouraging clear communication and providing disability awareness training can help eliminate stereotypes and foster a sense of belonging. When people feel comfortable being themselves at work, collaboration becomes easier and workplace relationships grow stronger.

All businesses benefit when they create opportunities for everyone to thrive. Disabled employees bring unique perspectives, problem-solving abilities, and valuable life experiences that can strengthen virtually any organization. A workplace that embraces diversity often sees higher employee satisfaction, better retention, and a more positive overall atmosphere. By making accessibility a priority, companies create a work environment where everyone has the chance to contribute and succeed.

July 2026

Applying for a Healthcare Job when You Are Neurodivergent

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Why Hiring Healthcare Workers with a Disability is a Good Idea

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Breaking into Engineering: Tips for Landing Your First Job

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Popular Careers in the Financial Sector

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Jobs for Disabled Veterans

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AI Skills Increasingly Crucial for Cyber Pros Looking for Jobs and Advancement

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Lisa Petty, Editor Equal Opportunity Employment Journal

The eoejournal is published bimonthly

by EOEJournal, Inc. The ownership and management of EOEJ fully and actively support equal opportunity for and advancement of all people without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, sex, pregnancy, citizenship, ancestry, veteran status, marital status, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, age, gender identity, and sexual orientation or any other characteristic protected by state or federal law.

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"The world needs all kinds of minds."

– Temple Grandin

July 2026

equal opportunity employment journal

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Applying for a Healthcare Job When You Are Neurodivergent

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In this article we provide some tips and useful considerations for a neurodivergent jobseeker in the healthcare sector.

here are many neurodivergent people working in the healthcare indsutry. In the medical field, their experiences often make them far more empathetic and understanding with patients which can, in turn, help improve services.

Unfortunately, traditional recruitment processes are often biased towards neurotypical applicants.

However, the last few years have seen improvements and commitments from numerous employers to improve neurodiversity within the workplace.

The New England Center for Children® (NECC®) is a worldwide leader in autism education and research. Through our schools, clinics, consulting services, ACE® ABA Software System, and robust research and training initiatives, we are shaping a more inclusive future for all.

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What does ‘neurodivergent’ mean?

Neurodivergent is an umbrella term to describe a range of medically diagnosed conditions including Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), dyslexia, dyspraxia and Tourette’s. These conditions describe differences in how the brain processes information compared to those who are ‘neurotypical’.

It can impact on a range of abilities such as socializing, memory, time-keeping, understanding of language and numbers, impulsiveness and control

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equal opportunity employment journal

over the body. It can also cause sensory challenges such as oversensitivity to light, sound or touch. Recent studies estimate that around 15–20% of the population are neurodiverse.

DISCLOSURE

July 2026

Cons of Disclosure:

Many people will make assumptions and ill-informed judgements about what you can and cannot achieve, often based on ‘myths’. For example, it is often assumed that all people with autism have poor empathy skills.

Some employers may dismiss your application instantly.

Research shows employers still do not feel confident employing those with neurodiverse conditions You may feel a discussion about your condition will overshadow or distract interviewers.

When deciding whether or not to disclose it might be helpful to research your prospective employer using tools such as the NHS Workforce Disability Equality Standard reports, any equality policies on their website or through forums and networks (see the resources section at the end of this article for ideas) to get a better understanding of how they perform when employing neurodiverse staff.

Undoubtedly the biggest decision you will face is whether to disclose your condition.

There is no right or wrong answer to this. There are pros and cons to both and much depends on how confident the organisation, recruiter or supervisor feels in understanding and working with your condition. are obliged If you do disclose, recruiters by law (Equality Act 2010) to make reasonable adjustments to their processes to ensure you are considered fairly.

Such considerations might include: Offering a pre-interview period where you can meet your interviewers, the team where you will be working or view the place where you would be working/interviewed Sharing questions in advance Using specific questioning in interviews such as referring to your past experience rather than hypothetical situations Extra time to answer questions Not negatively assessing a lack of eye contact or unexpected body language Providing work trials or work interviews based on portfolios Recent studies estimate that instead of a traditional interview.

Disclosure Document

Your recruiter or interviewer may have very little understanding of your condition. It might be useful to prepare a disclosure document that includes some background information around 15–20% of the population about the condition and Employers can only refuse to your specific challenges. make these adjustments if: are neurodiverse.

Frame it in a way that • They can evidence it isn’t highlights your strengths and abilities as well as challenges. practical or possible for them to do so Language can be very important here – use phrases such as attention to detail, high levels of concentration, problem solv• It would require significant extra resources ing abilities, precision and accuracy, honesty and directness, • It would have an adverse impact on the health and safety detailed specialist knowledge or lateral thinking. of colleagues.

Remember to stipulate who this information should be shared • You should disclose with at least a week’s notice to give with. If you are successful in your application, you might prefer a recruiter enough time to make any adjustments. Detail to tell colleagues yourself rather than have a manager do it. the specific adjustments that you would find helpful, Access to work and why, to avoid measures being put in place that are If you do decide to disclose it is worth making your prospecunnecessary. tive employer aware of the Access to Work funding available Pros of disclosure: to help workers and employers overcome challenges faced by Recruiters will be better able to understand behaviour they disabled people in the workplace. might otherwise find strange or concerning such as tics or a The grant is tailored to your needs and capped at £62,900 lack of eye contact. per year. Some of the changes it could be used for include: You will have to do less ‘masking’ (trying to behave as you think Awareness training for colleagues you are expected to) which can be exhausting and distracting.

Extra capacity to deliver a workplace support plan such It can lead to an honest conversation about the realities of as additional supervision, flexible work patterns, providing a the job and adjustments that will help you thrive in the role. mentor or additional time to complete tasks Some neurodivergent people can end up in poor performance Purchasing technology such as ‘Brain in Hand’ procedures which could have been avoided if small changes to Creating a designated area for ‘quiet time’ or a designated their working environment had been made. desk within a hot-desking environment.

It can help recruiters and employers have a better understandSome of these adjustments will benefit everyone in a team ing of neurodiversity and the strengths it can bring to a team. which can be a powerful message for recruiters.

July 2026

equal opportunity employment journal

Interviews

Planning is essential for interviews (as it is for most parts of daily life when you are neurodiverse). Research the location, plan your travel and allow yourself plenty of time just in case there are unexpected travel delays.

If you have disclosed, ask for interview questions or tasks in advance so you can prepare and practice. If you have not disclosed then you may need to practice the body language that will be expected such as turning to someone when they are talking, leaning in to show interest and engagement and making appropriate eye-contact that is neither too much nor too little.

Consider recording a video of yourself answering a list of prepared questions. Ask a friend to watch it back with you to give feedback on your body language, tone of voice and answers.

Interviews will often begin with ‘small talk’ which those with autism may find difficult. Prepare what you might say in response to questions or comments about the weather or your journey to the interview. Remember, while you will be expected to answer such questions, you are not usually expected to ask reciprocal ‘small talk’ questions of the interviewers.

Video Conferencing Interviews

Video conferencing interviews might be easier for some neurodiverse candidates but more challenging for others who need visual cues or struggle with auditory processing. Practice with a friend or a coach and use discreet visual cue cards to help you manage typical questions.

Applying for mental health jobs when you are neurodivergent

Ask questions of the human resources team or recruiter to ensure you are clear what is expected of you on the first day and during the first week. Make sure you write down addresses, the name and phone number of your supervisor and team.

Check if the location for the induction is in a different location to your work office.

If you have not disclosed consider and practice the strategies you might need to handle the various challenges you will encounter such as heightened nervous anxiety and sensory overload. Spend some time finding places you may be able to retreat to for short breaks to help you recover.

Unsuccessful Applications

Don’t be disheartened. Research shows non neurotypical people face serious challenges in the workplace and NHS statistics prove NHS staff with disabilities are less likely to be appointed from shortlists compared to colleagues.

You are part of the generation that is having to change attitudes and systems which is no easy job.

Contact and learn from other neurodiverse professionals in your sector (see resources section of this article). Build up a peer support network that can also provide insights into the best and worst employers for neurodiverse professionals.

Remember awareness of neurodiversity is growing each year as the numbers diagnosed continue to increase. Those with neurodiverse family members or friends often end up becoming powerful champions within teams and organisations to improve understanding.

Article provided by the health careers section of https://www.bmj.com/

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July 2026

Why Hiring Healthcare Workers with a Disability is a Good Idea

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ealthcare organizations have the opportunity to lead by example and demonstrate the immense value that healthcare professionals with disabilities can contribute to the betterment of health care. In an industry that is often focused on providing care and support to individuals with diverse needs, it only makes sense that healthcare organizations should strive to build a workforce that reflects the very communities they serve.

In this article, we will explore the benefits of making healthcare settings more welcoming to persons with disability. In the process, we’ll also discuss the challenges that medical students and medical professionals face in navigating through health care and the strategies and reasonable accommodations that healthcare organizations can implement to create a more inclusive and supportive work environment for these individuals.

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We attribute our success to our people. We have employment opportunities for professionals dedicated to helping us continue our success.

inspirahealthnetwork.org/careers An Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.

July 2026

equal opportunity employment journal

What Does It Mean to Have a Disability?

The Federal Disability Reference Guide by the Government of Canada adapts the World Health Organization (WHO)’s concept of disability and considers it the most widely accepted definition. According to the WHO, disability is a complex interaction between a person’s body and their surrounding society, encompassing impairments, activity limitations, and participation restrictions. It’s caused by various factors and requires an inclusive and accessible environment for full societal participation.

As such, the Canadian government recognizes that disability is a complex phenomenon that isn’t a one-size-fits-all concept.

It can happen at any point in a person’s life (i.e., a person can be born with it or develop it later on) and may be exhibited in varying degrees.

Regardless of the contextual differences for disability that also make the services and programs of the Government of Canada that provide for such different from one another, healthcare organizations also have the responsibility to understand the diversity of experiences and needs that healthcare workers with disabilities may have. This is because it will inform their approach to creating an inclusive and supportive work environment.

Why Healthcare Organizations Should Hire More Healthcare Workers with a Disability

The negative attitudes to health professionals with disabilities, whether apparent or hidden, are understandable, especially with the traditional notion of healthcare workers being strong, energetic, and healthy. While healthcare workers recognize the needs of patients with disability, the same can’t always be said

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for colleagues with the same health conditions. Healthcare workers with disabilities are often underrepresented and often hide their disability , as some may fear that their disability status may subject them to discrimination and judgment.

However, healthcare organizations must step up and provide equal opportunities for their colleagues and exert extra efforts for disability inclusion. After all, healthcare workers with disability are assets that contribute a lot to the healthcare system, rather than liabilities, as one may initially perceive them to be.

Here are some reasons why hospital settings and other healthcare facilities must be more welcoming to healthcare workers with disability:

Ethical and Lawful

Hiring healthcare workers with disabilities is not only a right and humane thing to do, but it’s also a legal requirement in many jurisdictions. Canadian legislations such as the Employment Equity Act and the Accessible Canada Act mandate that employers take proactive steps to identify and remove barriers to the employment of individuals with disabilities. By embracing this legal and ethical responsibility, healthcare organizations can demonstrate their commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and set an example for others to follow.

Leads to Enhanced Patient Care

Healthcare workers with disabilities often have a unique understanding and empathy for the challenges faced by patients with similar conditions. These healthcare workers are better equipped to anticipate the needs of their patients and provide more personalized and compassionate support. This can lead to enhanced patient care, HEALTHCARE continued on page 11

At ChristianaCare, we are passionate about fostering a community of health care professionals devoted to delivering exceptional patient care.

Our values of love and excellence shine through our caregivers who are driven by a strong sense of

If you’re ready to make a difference, we’re ready for you to join our team.

Everything we do is driven by the goal of helping our patients and communities improve their health and well-being. It’s our people who make that goal possible.

purpose. Our policies and procedures, hiring and promotion practices, benefits, learning opportunities, and corporate citizenship demonstrates our strong commitment to inclusion and diversity.

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Together, we combine expert knowledge with compassion and kindness. Our Head + Heart, Together philosophy drives our care decisions and helps us make a difference in our patients’ lives.

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equal opportunity employment journal

July 2026

Our compassionate care nurtures lasting connections Redeemer Health provides compassionate care across every stage of life.

Rooted in the tradition of the Sisters of the Redeemer, our mission to Care, Comfort, and Heal can only be achieved through our dedicated, compassionate employees. Each of us is the product of our experiences and here you will find a place that welcomes you, celebrates your success, and challenges you to do your very best.

careers.redeemerhealth.org Equal Opportunity Employer

July 2026

equal opportunity employment journal

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You Can Be You

At Carilion Clinic, we’re advancing health care. We’re moving toward achieving this goal by encouraging curiosity and individuality.

Join an organization where everyone is welcomed, respected, supported and valued. Your career will grow stronger as part of our united team.

THIS IS TOMORROW’S HEALTH CARE.

Apply today at CarilionClinic.org/careers Equal Opportunity Employer: Minorities/Females/Protected Veterans Individuals with Disabilities/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity

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equal opportunity employment journal

July 2026

Looking for an exciting place to work where you have the opportunity to help others? Look to Harlingen, Knapp, or Mission Regional Medical Centers.

We’re always on the lookout for professionals who are as committed to excellence as we are.

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July 2026

equal opportunity employment journal

HEALTHCARE continued from page 7

ultimately helping bridge health disparities and leading to enhanced health outcomes for patients with disability.

The presence of healthcare workers with disabilities can also help normalize the experience of disability for patients and their family members, fostering a more inclusive and welcoming healthcare environment with enhanced cultural competence.

Helps Reduce Stigma Against Persons with a Disability

By actively hiring and supporting healthcare workers with disabilities, we can help to challenge the negative stereotypes and misconceptions that often surround disability. When individuals with disabilities are visible and successful in their careers, it can help to dispel the notion that they are incapable or “less than” their able-bodied counterparts. This, in turn, can contribute to a more inclusive and accepting society, where individuals with disabilities are valued for their unique strengths and abilities.

Challenges that Healthcare Workers With Disability Face in Entering and Excelling in Their Careers

While the benefits of hiring healthcare workers with disabilities are clear, it’s important to acknowledge the significant challenges they often face in entering and excelling in their careers. Here are some of the barriers that individuals with disabilities face in navigating through the health system as a student or professional:

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Technical Standards Required by the Profession

A good deal of healthcare professions have strict technical standards and physical requirements that can pose barriers for individuals with certain types of disabilities. For example, a healthcare worker with a mobility impairment may struggle to meet the physical demands of a role that requires prolonged standing or frequent lifting of patients. Navigating these technical standards can be a daunting and discouraging process for healthcare workers with disabilities.

Inadequate Accommodations

Even when healthcare workers with disabilities are able to meet the technical standards of their profession, they may still face significant challenges in the workplace due to a lack of adequate accommodations. This can include everything from inaccessible workspaces and equipment to insufficient support for their specific needs. Without the proper accommodations, healthcare workers with disabilities may be unable to perform their job duties effectively, leading to frustration and a sense of exclusion.

Fear of Disclosure

Many healthcare workers with disabilities may be hesitant to disclose their condition to their employer, fearing that it could jeopardize their career prospects or lead to discrimination. This fear of disclosure can prevent them from accessing the accommodations and support they need to thrive in their roles, further compounding the challenges they face.

HEALTHCARE continued on page 13

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equal opportunity employment journal

July 2026

Join a Global Leader in Flavors & Fragrances Be Challenged. Be Rewarded. Be Part of a Great Experience!

Takasago is a major global leader and producer of flavors and fragrances providing innovative solutions in flavors, fragrances, aroma ingredients, and fine chemicals.

For over 100 years, Takasago has invested heavily in research and development to remain at the forefront of innovation in flavors and fragrances. We are committed to sustainability, focusing on natural and environmentally friendly ingredients.

Takasago’s corporate culture is shaped by its core values of innovation, customer focus, sustainability, and respect for diversity. The company promotes a collaborative, inclusive environment where employees are encouraged to think creatively while maintaining high ethical standards.

Join Our Growing Team

Takasago is actively seeking motivated individuals to join us in the exciting world of flavors, fragrances, and fine chemicals. Whether you're just starting your career or seeking a leadership role, we have opportunities for you.

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July 2026

equal opportunity employment journal

HEALTHCARE continued from page 11

Strategies to Help Healthcare Workers with Disability Succeed

To address the challenges faced by healthcare workers with disabilities and create a more inclusive and supportive work environment, healthcare organizations must implement a multifaceted approach that encompasses both organizational and individual-level strategies. This can include the following best practices for a more inclusive healthcare workplace for individuals with disability:

I mplement programs and policies that will make the workplace more inclusive and welcoming Healthcare organizations can foster inclusivity and create welcoming workplaces by implementing various programs and policies. Here are some strategies that can be adopted: • Developing comprehensive accessibility and accommodation policies that clearly outline the organization’s commitment to supporting healthcare workers with disabilities.

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Foster authentic inclusivity among coworkers • Creating a truly inclusive work environment goes beyond just having the right policies in place. It also requires a concerted effort to foster a culture of acceptance, understanding, and genuine support among all employees.

This can be achieved through: • Organizing team-building activities and social events that celebrate the diversity of the workforce.

• Encouraging open and honest conversations about disability, where employees feel safe to share their experiences and ask questions.

• Recognizing and celebrating the contributions and achievements of healthcare workers with disabilities, both individually and as a group.

Make equipment and tools more accessible for healthcare workers with disability • Ensuring that the necessary tools and equipment are accessible and adaptable for healthcare workers with disabilities is crucial for their success. This may involve:

• Providing training and education for all employees on disability awareness, inclusion, and the importance of accessibility.

• Investing in assistive technologies and adaptive devices that can help to mitigate the challenges posed by certain physical or sensory impairments.

• Establishing mentorship programs that pair healthcare workers with disabilities with experienced, successful colleagues who can offer guidance and support.

• Designing workspaces and patient care areas with accessibility in mind, incorporating features like adjustable desks, ergonomic chairs, and clear signage.

• Implementing inclusive hiring practices that actively seek out and encourage applications from individuals with disabilities.

ieee.taleo.net/careersection/2/jobsearch.ftl

• Partnering with disability organizations and experts to identify and address accessibility gaps within the healthcare environment.

HEALTHCARE continued on page 26

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equal opportunity employment journal

July 2026

BREAKING INTO ENGINEERING: Tips for Landing Your First Job

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ngineering is an exciting field full of innovation, creativity, jobs is 5% between 2022 and 2023. Some branches of electriand problem-solving. Whether you want to become a cal engineering include control, power, computer, microeleccivil, mechanical, electrical, or software engineer, you’ll tronics, and telecommunications.

Civil: Civil engineers work on projects that can specialize in strucbenefit society. tural, transportation, Many people find geoenvironmental, that engineering is a rewarding and satisfying technical, and infraprofession, but it can be structure engineering. daunting when you first This field’s outlook is the same as electrical, start. The engineering with a 5% estimated job market is competigrowth rate. tive, especially when you have limited expe2. Boost your rience. But with hard credentials work and the right strategy, you can increase You can gain experience your chances of success and extra knowledge and work toward landin various ways before ing your dream job. applying for jobs. This This guide provides can make your resume Whether you want to become a civil, mechanical, engineering career adlook more impressive vice to help you break and help you stand out electrical, or software engineer, you’ll work on into the field. From from other applicants. projects that benefit society. crafting a strong resume Most engineering posito preparing for your tions require a degree, first interview, you’ll but you can also get learn everything you need to know. With this knowledge, you additional certifications and licenses. can confidently start your engineering job search.

Look into each of the specific fields and see what requirements there are. Completing an internship or 1. Understand the engineering apprenticeship before applying for a job is also benefijob landscape cial. Even attending some extra online courses, seminars, or Before job searching, it helps to understand the types of engi- conferences can help. neering fields and positions available. Starting your search with 3. Craft an effective resume a clear field or position in mind can help you focus on getting a job within your desired area. You should also keep on Your resume is often the first impression potential employers top of each field’s projected job outlook to understand current have of you. If you don’t have any relevant engineering expeand future demand. Jobs with a good outlook often have more rience yet, you’ll need to use your resume to showcase your knowledge and skills. Start by writing a cover letter explainopen positions and will continue to grow in the coming years.

Here are the main engineering fields, along with their asso- ing why you think you’re a good fit for the specific job you’re applying for. You can highlight projects you’ve worked on that ciated positions and projected outlook: Mechanical: The mechanical engineering field currently has match the skills listed in the job description to back your claims.

For your resume, focus on listing your personal information, the best job outlook. By 2032, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts the employment rate will grow by 10%. As a mechani- education, experience, relevant skills, and references. You can cal engineer, you can specialize in aerospace, marine, automo- also include your personal interests and hobbies, as well as any recent awards or achievements you’ve received. Another tive, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning, and robotics.

Chemical: Chemical engineering is a popular field with a engineering resume tip is highlighting soft skills the employer positive job outlook. This field has an 8% predicted change in may be looking for, such as communication, problem-solving, employment between 2022 and 2032. While there are many time management, and teamwork. branches of chemical engineering, a few common ones are biochemical, biomedical, pharmaceutical, nanotechnology, 4. Diversify your job search The most effective way to find any job is to cast a wide net. and chemical reaction engineering.

Electrical: The estimated growth for electrical engineering Look in as many locations as you ENGINEERING continued on page 18

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equal opportunity employment journal

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Careers@Armacell

MAKE AN IMPACT

Armacell is a global innovator in foam technologies and the world leader in flexible mechanical insulation materials.

As a fast-growing company, Armacell offers an exciting workplace with rewarding career opportunities. Our diverse employment includes operations, engineering, research and development, as well as administration and corporate career tracks.

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equal opportunity employment journal

July 2026

Make a Real Difference!

At Segal, our mission is to provide trusted advice that improves lives.

How? With expert teams delivering innovative solutions that help organizations provide health and financial peace of mind to their people.

Our differences make us stronger We’re one of the largest independent human resources and employee benefits consulting firms today. We’re team-oriented with deeply held values, proud to be making a difference in the lives of so many.

Become a part of something bigger Segal is actively recruiting top talent. See our job openings on LinkedIn. And visit us at segalco.com/about-us/careers to learn how you can become a part of our team.

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July 2026

equal opportunity employment journal

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ENGINEERING continued from page 14

can to get a good pool of open positions to apply to. While it’s great to focus on your dream field or branch, you should also consider applying for other jobs with a similar skill set requirement. Applying to more jobs can increase your chances of landing one quickly.

The best places to start your engineering job search are: University resources : If you studied engineering at a university, check if they have any job placement services or resources.

Job websites: Look at job websites for graduate engineering jobs. Some employers may also list entry-level engineering positions as “junior” roles.

Networking: Network as much as you can. Attend conferences and career fairs and join professional networks like the American Society of Civil Engineers.

Company websites: If you know exactly which company you want to work for, look for a careers page on their website. You can also apply there directly.

5. Prepare for the interview Once you’ve received your first interview invitation, it’s time to prepare for success with interview preparation. Begin by familiarizing yourself with the job description and requirements. You can also look into the company online to understand them better. Most interviewers ask similar questions initially, so you can plan some answers in advance. For example, they may ask why you want to work at the company, what your greatest strengths are, and how you overcame a recent challenge.

Rehearse your responses in the mirror and with friends or family. Practice can reduce nerves on the day. Remember to ask the interviewer questions, too. You can ask about their experience at the company and what a typical day looks like for them. Focus on being yourself and highlighting your skills and accomplishments to sell yourself to the interviewer.

If the company chooses someone else for the position, the best thing you can do is keep going. Another opportunity is bound to come your way.

Tips for your first day

If you’ve scored your first job, congratulations! Your first few weeks will be full of learning opportunities, growth, and new experiences. Use the following tips to get the most out of this time and make a great impression: • Get plenty of sleep for your first day so you can be alert and focused.

• Show up with a positive attitude.

• Take detailed notes as you learn new things every day.

• Write down team member names and memorize them as soon as possible.

• Don’t be afraid to ask for help when you’re stuck.

• Tuck your phone away to give colleagues and work your full attention.

Apply for an engineering job at Intuitive. https://careers.intuitive.com/en/ If you’re passionate about making a difference, consider applying at Intuitive. Our engineers help us prove what’s possible in minimally invasive care. As part of our team, you’ll help build complex robotic technology or help shape the innovative software solutions behind them. Your work will directly impact the care doctors can provide to patients worldwide. We have open roles across various engineering fields and positions, including electrical, software, quality assurance, vision imaging, project management, and mechanical design. If you aren’t ready to apply yet, join our Talent Community. We’ll keep you updated on new job openings and company news so you can learn more about what we do.

July 2026

Popular Careers in the Financial Sector

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ccording to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, professionals in business and financial occupations earned a median wage of $80,920 in 2024—much higher than the overall median wage across all jobs of $49,500. That makes finance a career that involves not only managing money, but also earning some for yourself.

Yet the financial sector is undergoing a profound transformation. The rise of fintech, the changing nature of investing, and the increasing dominance of data analytics are reshaping traditional roles in ways that can be hard to foresee. Whether you excel at crunching numbers, building relationships, or leveraging technology, the expanding financial sector offers career paths that could align with your strengths and interests.

While the average projected growth rate for all U.S. occupations from 2024 to 2034 is 3.1%, the financial careers discussed here are all projected to grow at higher rates.

Required Education and Skills

Most finance roles require a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, economics, business administration, or a related field. However, the level of education depends on the specific role and the career you want. Here’s a breakdown: Bachelor’s degree: This is often needed for entry-level positions. According to an analysis of 1,000 financial analyst job postings by 365 Financial Analyst, 38% of such job postings require a bachelor’s degree.

Master’s degree: This is increasingly preferred for advanced roles, with 29% of financial analyst job postings requiring a master’s degree.

MBA or specialized master’s degree: Often beneficial for leadership positions or specialized areas like investment banking. In addition, professional certifications can provide an edge for specific careers: CFA: Highly regarded in investment management.

CFP: Globally recognized for financial planners.

Financial risk manager (FRM): Valuable for risk-management roles.

Portfolio Management

2024 median annual salary: $161,700 Projected growth rate from 2024 to 2034: 15%12

Portfolio managers oversee investments for individuals, institutions, and funds. Their primary responsibility is to create and carry out investment strategies that match their clients’ goals, risk tolerance, and market conditions.

The job often involves market research, analyzing economic trends, and making data-driven decisions to optimize portfolio performance. Portfolio managers often specialize in specific asset classes or investment styles, such as stocks, bonds, or alternative investments.

FINANCIAL continued on page 27

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Here in the First National family (First National Bank Texas, First Convenience Bank, First Heroes National Bank, First Community Mortgage and First Community Services), we are fiercely proud of our past and excited about our bright future.

Independently owned, with more than 300 locations in Texas, Arizona, Arkansas and New Mexico, we offer growth and advancement in a fun and fast-paced environment. Our company provides and educational atmosphere, enabling employees to achieve their highest career potential. We are pleased you have considered advancing your career with us.

WHY CHOOSE US?

Page 19

No matter what your specialty is, chances are there is a position for you with the First National family.

Positions range from front-line sales to customer service, clerical, support services and managerial positions. Our account holders are very diverse, and we are proud to accommodate them with a diverse workforce that includes bilingual employees.

Here in the First National family (First National Bank Texas, First Convenience Bank, First Heroes National Bank, First

Community Mortgage and First Community Services), we are

Competitive Pay | Professional Training | Tuition Assistance Program | Health, fiercely proud of our past and excited about our bright future.

Dental, Prescription Drug, and Vision Plan | Personal and Vacation Pay | 401 (K) Plan

Independently owned, with more than 300 locations in Texas,

To Arkansas find a specific position that available Arizona, and New Mexico, weisoffer growthand and suitedinfor you, visit our website atOur advancement a fun andplease fast-paced environment.

www.1stnb.com/careers company provides an educational atmosphere, enabling All qualified applicants to will receive considerationtheir for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, national origin or ancestry, employees achieve highest career potential.

We are ethnicity, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, citizenship, protected veteran status, genetic information,

or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law. FCBI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. pleased you have considered advancing your career with us.

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Jobs for Disabled Veterans

T

ransitioning to civilian life as a disabled veteran doesn’t mean leaving your strengths behind. Your leadership, discipline, and problem-solving skills are exactly what today’s employers need.

At Hire Veterans, we specialize in connecting you with meaningful jobs for disabled veterans — from federal noncompetitive appointments to flexible remote jobs for disabled veterans and inclusive private-sector roles.

This guide pulls directly from official U.S. government and nonprofit resources to show you the fastest, most reliable paths to job opportunities for disabled veterans and long-term careers for disabled veterans.

Main Takeaways

Federal agencies offer noncompetitive hiring for veterans with a 30% or higher VA disability rating, so you’re not competing with the general public.

Special authorities like the Veterans Recruitment Appointment (VRA) and Schedule A give you priority access to thousands of federal and contractor positions.

Inclusive employers and veteran-focused nonprofits provide resume help, accommodations, and direct pipelines to disabled veteran jobs, many with remote or flexible options.

Jobs for Disabled Veterans

Let’s take a look at some of the best job opportunities for disabled veterans, including federal jobs, DoD jobs, and more!

CHARLES GEORGE VA MEDICAL CENTER We Proudly Serve our Nation’s Heroes

a privilege, and we pride ourselves on the quality of

www.asheville.va.gov/careers www.usajobs.gov

care we provide. If you have what it takes, please

POC 828-296-4419

At the Charles George VAMC, we strive to hire only the best! Working with and for America’s veterans is

consider applying for one of our available positions.

1100 Tunnel Road • Asheville, NC 28805

The United States Government does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, political affiliation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factor.

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Fastest Path: Federal Non-Competitive Hiring Authorities

The federal government is the nation’s largest employer of disabled veterans, and for good reason. If you have a serviceconnected disability rating of 30% or more, you qualify for noncompetitive appointment under Schedule A for 30% or more disabled veterans and the Special Hiring Authority for Disabled Veterans.

You can also use the Veterans Recruitment Appointment (VRA) for positions up to GS-11 (or equivalent) — no written test and no competition required.

How to apply today: • Create or update your profile on USAJOBS.gov • Upload your DD-214 (Member-4 copy), SF-15 (for 10-point preference), and your VA disability rating letter • Search using filters: “30 percent or more disabled veteran” or “Veterans Recruitment Appointment (VRA)” These authorities are explained in detail on the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Veterans page and VA for Vets.

Department of Defense Civilian Careers The DOD Civilian Careers program actively recruits disabled veterans for everything from cybersecurity and logistics to intelligence analysis, and many of the roles are remote or hybrid.

The DoD Job Exploration Tool is a useful five-question survey that instantly matches your military experience to open civilian positions.

The Boise VA Medical Center proudly serves veterans in the Boise, Idaho area, in its main medical center, and in five community-based outpatient clinics.

VA offers a wide range of career fields and opportunities.

Visit

www.va.gov/boise-health-care/work-with-us/

to view and apply for current open positions.

BOISE VA MEDICAL CENTER 500 West Fort Street Boise, Idaho 83702

We stand in support of equality for and advancement of all people based on their qualifications and actions alone without regard to color, gender, age, religion, national origin or disability.

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Inclusive Employers & Nonprofit Support

Several veteran-focused nonprofits go beyond federal jobs to place disabled veterans in private-sector and contractor roles: • American Corporate Partners (ACP): Free one-on-one mentoring with executives from companies like Amazon, Disney, and Verizon.

• Hire Heroes USA: Personalized career coaching, resume rewriting, and mock interviews (100% free).

• Veterati: Unlimited 1-on-1 mentoring calls with civilian professionals.

• FourBlock: Career readiness training with a proven 93% employment rate for graduates.

Many of these organizations partner directly with employers who are committed to hiring and accommodating disabled veterans.

Remote & Flexible Opportunities

our database daily for candidates exactly like you Your skills are in demand, and your country still needs you — just in a different uniform. Start your search today at HireVeterans.com.

FAQS | FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS What are the special hiring authorities for disabled veterans?

July 2026

friendly options in IT, admin, and transcription ($34K avg.).

Should I disclose my disability on job applications?

For federal jobs, yes, so that you can claim preference (select “Protected Veteran”).

For private sector jobs, it’s optional. You can choose “I won't answer” to avoid bias and then disclose post-offer for accommodations. The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission protects against discrimination.

What documents do I need for veterans’ preference?

To use your veterans’ preference, you’ll need your DD-214 (Member-4), SF-15 (for 10-point), and VA disability letter (30% or more).

Upload these documents to your USAJOBS profile.

Can employers ask about my disability during interviews?

No. Pre-offer questions about disabilities (e.g., Pre-offer questions about disabilities post-traumatic stress (e.g., post-traumatic stress disorder or injury details) disorder or injury deRemote work has opened tails) are illegal under are illegal under the Americans with Disabilities thousands of new doors. the Americans with DisUse the “Remote” filter abilities Act. Post-offer on USAJOBS.gov combined with the Noncompetitive paths include Vet- medical exams are permissible, as well “30% or More Disabled Veteran” hiring erans Recruitment Appointment (up to as disclosure to seek accommodations. path to find fully remote federal posi- GS-11), 30%+ Disabled Veteran Author- Self-identification for affirmative action tions. ity (any position), and the Veterans Em- is voluntary.

Contractors supporting the VA, DOD, ployment Opportunities Act of 1998 for and other agencies also post remote dis- merit promotions. Apply via USAJOBS. About Hire Veterans Connecting Great Companies with Top abled veteran jobs on ClearanceJobs. gov with DD-214, SF-15, and VA letter.

Military and Veteran Talent Since 2003! com (many require security clearances What jobs are best for HireVeterans.com is recognized by inyou already hold). dustry experts as a market leader in top disabled veterans?

Conclusion High-demand roles include IT special- jobs for veterans and their family members.

You’ve already proven you can overFor job seekers, we offer the very ists, customer service reps, security come challenges most people never officers, logistics coordinators, and best and relevant career opportunities face. Now it’s time to turn that resilience administrative assistants. You can use offered by world-class, veteran-friendly into a rewarding civilian career. military skills translators on CareerOne- companies who want YOU! Take one action today: We also offer veteran-friendly Stop.org.

• Update your USAJOBS profile employers access to our vast network Are there remote jobs for of veteran resumes and job postings • Schedule a free mentoring session disabled veterans? so your organization can efficiently and with ACP or Yes—filter "Remote" + "30%+ Disabled effectively hire top military and veteran Hire Heroes USA Veteran" on USAJOBS.gov for federal talent worldwide.

• Register your resume at HireVetroles; sites like FlexJobs, Remote OK, erans.com — employers search Article proviced by www.hireveterans.com and ClearanceJobs list 200+ veteran-

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Think big, do good and help create a clean energy future!

At the New York Power Authority (NYPA), we work for the greater good and a stronger, sustainable New York.

Come join our team of almost 2,000 collaborative, purposedriven professionals who are creating the clean energy system of the future. Together, we can lead the transition to a carbon-free, economically vibrant New York through customer partnerships, innovative energy solutions and the responsible supply of affordable, clean and reliable electricity.

Visit nypa.gov/careers to see our openings

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The Phoenix Union High School District is searching for the best-qualified applicants in all fields, but particularly in mathematics, science, special education, and ELD (English Language Development).

Come join one of the most progressive portfolio districts in the country. Fill out an application on our website at pxu.org or contact us at (602) 764-1101.

The Phoenix Union High School District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

July 2026

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Page 25

AI Skills Increasingly Crucial for Cyber Pros Looking for Jobs and Advancement

C

ybersecurity, like overall tech hiring, has slowed over the last six months as businesses reassessed their budgets amid a slowing U.S. economy, while at the same time, the federal government also reduced agency funding and positions. Still, the CyberSeek job board currently lists more than 514,000 open cyber positions.

A look at the open position numbers shows that the cybersecurity profession has reached a major milestone – CyberSeek found that 10 percent of all these available security positions specifically state that the job requires candidates to have some type of artificial intelligence (AI) skill to be considered.

“Over the past 12 months, approximately 10% of employers recruiting for cybersecurity positions cited AI as a requirement. For other segments of employers, it may be an implied skill requirement not explicitly mentioned in the job listing,” according to CyberSeek, a joint initiative of NICE (a program of the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology focused on advancing cybersecurity education and workforce development), analytics firm Lightcast, and CompTIA.

“Over the past 12 months, approximately 10% of employers recruiting for cybersecurity positions cited AI as a requirement."

MINORITY RECRUITMENT The Kentucky Educational Development Corporation (KEDC), a cooperative of school districts is actively seeking certified minority teachers and administrators for elementary, middle, and secondary positions.

KEDC’s Districts are located across Kentucky.

Visit www.kedc.org for a list of participating school districts.

The Ohio Valley Educational Cooperative (OVEC) is a consortium of 14 school districts serving over 150,000 students in north central Kentucky. OVEC's mission is to make educators’ work more fulfilling and sustainable through intentional opportunities, resources, and relationships.

Established in 1976, the cooperative provides a vehicle for conducting regional planning, development, and implementation of educational programs on a continuing basis. OVEC offers programs that serve member school districts, their student populations and families.

Vision:

Empowering Educators so students thrive.

Mission:

OVEC makes educators’ work more fulfilling and sustainable through intentional opportunities, resources, and relationships.

www.ovec.org/employment The Ohio Valley Educational Cooperative does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, religion, sex (including sexual orientation or gender identity), genetic information, disability, or limitations related to pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions in employment, educational programs, or activities.

Individuals interested in obtaining an application should send a letter or postcard to: KEDC • 904 ROSE ROAD • ASHLAND, KY 41102-7104

www.kedc.org An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer

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While generative AI, agentic AI and other versions of these technologies are viewed as ways to automate many manual security processes, the CyberSeek numbers, along with other research data, show that AI is driving cybersecurity professionals to quickly develop new skill sets to meet the evolving demands of these types of jobs.

“Use of AI in security operations roles, like any other technology, will require new skills and training,” according to Gartner. “Senior analyst roles and staff with programming/code-first skill sets are more likely to offer value to the SOC organization when considering how to use automation and AI on a day-to-day basis.”

A Shifting Job Landscape Focuses on AI Skills

Cybersecurity experts have noted that while AI is changing the market and the skill sets that security professionals need to pursue an open position or a potential career path, it’s not yet clear how the technology will ultimately affect the job market and hiring.

It’s not yet clear how AI technology will ultimately affect the job market and hiring.

July 2026

HEALTHCARE continued from page 13

One of the key ways to challenge the stigma and biases surrounding healthcare workers with disabilities is to actively support their career advancement and representation in leadership positions. This can include: • Implementing inclusive talent management and succession planning processes that actively identify and develop the leadership potential of healthcare workers with disabilities.

• Offering specialized training and mentorship programs to help healthcare workers with disabilities build the skills and confidence needed to take on management and executive roles.

• Celebrating the success stories of healthcare workers with disabilities who have risen to positions of leadership and using their experiences to inspire and encourage others.

The integration of AI into core business operations has significant implications for the workforce. This includes security practitioners, as well as legal, compliance, and risk teams, which will now require upskilling in areas such as AI technologies and data governance.

With research showing that 64 percent of organizations are planning to add AI-powered platforms to their security stack in the next year, professionals must start to cross-skill in these technologies, said Nicole Carignan, the senior vice president for security and AI strategy, and field CISO, at security firm Darktrace.

“As AI becomes further embedded across the cyber landscape, it’s reshaping the structure, skillsets and strategies of all areas of the business, in particular the SOC,” Carignan told Dice. “The tools used by attackers and defenders are evolving rapidly, and AI offers critical support in helping teams keep pace. When implemented responsibly, AI can augment the existing cyber workforce – expanding situational awareness, accelerating mean time to action, and enabling SOC teams to be more efficient, reduce fatigue, and better prioritize cyber investigation workloads.”

Another cyber expert, Bugcrowd CEO Dave Gerry, noted that while AI might seem like a worthy security investment for an organization with a limited budget, the deployment of these platforms and virtual chatbots still requires human oversight and supervision. This means investing in training and ensuring cyber pros have these skills.

“AI has the potential to level the playing field for these underresourced operations, but only if it's deployed safely, securely, and with the right human oversight,” Gerry told Dice. “Without the combination of clear guardrails and experienced staff to monitor the outcomes, there is a risk of automation of failure at scale.”

“Realizing this benefit requires a workforce that understands how to effectively use, operationalize, govern, and most importantly, trust these technologies. It’s not enough to simply deploy an AI solution – security practitioners must understand how the underlying machine learning techniques function, what their strengths and limitations are, and how to evaluate their outputs,” Carignan added. “Without explainability and trust, AI risks exacerbating alert fatigue rather than solving it.”

Hiring healthcare workers with disabilities is not only the right thing to do, but it also contributes to the enhancement of healthcare practices to the greatest extent. By embracing the diversity and unique perspectives that these individuals bring to the table, healthcare organizations can create a healthcare work environment that truly values and supports the unique contributions of healthcare workers with disabilities, ultimately leading to enhanced patient care, increased job satisfaction, and a more inclusive and equitable industry as a whole.

At Caring Support, we support health promotion efforts and the creation of programs that can help healthcare organizations create a more inclusive and supportive work environment for healthcare workers with disabilities. We designed our comprehensive services to effectively contribute to the success of healthcare workers in Canada by helping them in different aspects of their careers, from their healthcare education through our various educational programs, to their job search and their duty essentials. Our healthcare-focused services also help in the effective communication among healthcare professionals and prospective employers.

Reach out to our team today to partner with us and gain helpful guidance on your journey towards an inclusive and positive healthcare workplace.

Article provided by www.dice.com

Article provided by www.caringsupport.com

Inclusive and Culturally Competent Medical Practice and Work Environment With Caring Support

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FINANCIAL continued from page 18

To become a portfolio manager, you typically need a bachelor’s degree in finance, economics, or a related field.13 You would then gain experience in financial analysis or investment management.

Most portfolio managers obtain advanced certifications, with the CFA designation being the industry’s gold standard.

The CFA curriculum covers investment analysis, portfolio management, and ethical standards.14 Other relevant certifications include the CFP and FRM designations.

Financial Planning

2024 median annual salary: $102,140 Projected growth rate from 2024 to 2034: 10% Financial planners help individuals, families, and businesses

manage their finances and achieve long-term financial goals.

They create financial plans, advise on investments, and provide retirement, tax, and estate planning services. Financial planners also stay up-to-date with the latest industry developments and economic policies to offer their clients the best available options.

The CFP designation is the industry’s gold standard, though planners who began as analysts might have a CFA. The median total compensation for financial planners was $185,000 in 2024, with CFP professionals earning 13% more than other financial planners, according to the CFP Board.

The Bottom Line

The financial sector offers diverse career paths, from highstakes investment banking to client-focused financial planning, each with a mix of rewards and demands. While six-figure

The financial sector offers diverse career paths, from high-stakes investment banking to client-focused financial planning, each with a mix of rewards and demands. salaries are more common than in other fields, success requires more than just following the money.

The most satisfied finance professionals are those who align their roles with their skills and lifestyle preferences, whether that’s the intense dealmaking environment of M&A, the analytical focus of quantitative trading, or the relationship-building aspects of wealth management.

Article provided by www.investopedia.com

We are looking for high energy, dedicated employees to serve the students of the Houston County School District.

For employment information or to apply online, visit our website:

www.hcbe.net

The Houston County School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, genetics, disability, or sex in its employment practices, student programs and dealings with the public.

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