DVMF Partners with American Corporate Partners to Launch Military & Veteran Spouse Mentoring Pilot for State Employees
ANNAPOLIS, MD (May 12, 2026) — The Maryland Department of Veterans & Military Families (DVMF), in partnership with American Corporate Partners (ACP), is pleased to announce the launch of Career Connect: Military Spouse Mentoring Pilot Program – a targeted initiative to expand career development and mentorship opportunities for military and veteran spouses across Maryland.
Career Connect: Military Spouse Mentoring Pilot Program invites military and veteran spouses to participate as mentors and protégés, building a two-way network that supports career growth, professional development, and long-term economic mobility.
This effort directly supports the Families Serve Act of 2024, a key component of Governor Moore’s legislative agenda to reduce employment barriers for military spouses and strengthen Maryland’s workforce. Together, the Families Serve Act and the Career Connect: Military Spouse Mentoring Pilot Program reflect a coordinated strategy to turn policy into action—connecting spouses to real opportunities for advancement.
“Through our partnership with American Corporate Partners, we are taking action to ensure military and veteran spouses have access to meaningful career pathways,” said Secretary Ed Rothstein, Maryland Department of Veterans and Military Families. “ACP's ability to connect veterans and military spouses with a dynamic network of professionals strengthens Maryland’s workforce, and this program helps connect spouses to the opportunities they deserve.”
“A career shouldn’t be the price a Military Spouse pays for their family’s service to our country. Spouses are some of the most resilient and high-performing professionals in our national workforce, yet they often face unique hurdles in building a sustained career,” said Sid Goodfriend, Founder and Chairman of American Corporate Partners. “By partnering with the State of Maryland, we are changing that narrative. At ACP, we know that personalized, one-on-one mentorship is the catalyst that turns these challenges into competitive advantages. We aren't just offering advice; we’re building a bridge between their incredible talent and the meaningful career opportunities they’ve earned within the public sector.”
This announcement coincides with National Military Appreciation Month, to honor the service and sacrifices of the Armed Forces, veterans, and their families and reinforces DVMF’s commitment to recognizing the vital role military-connected families play in supporting readiness and economic stability.
In addition, on May 8th, DVMF hosted an Appreciation Breakfast for Military Spouses employed with Maryland State Government to recognize their support and sacrifices by bringing together military and veteran spouses and agency leaders to recognize their service and highlight the value they bring to the Maryland State workforce.
Through the Career Connect: Military Spouse Mentoring Pilot Program, participants will be matched in one-on-one mentorships, gaining access to career coaching, professional development, and can play a direct role as mentors supporting career growth and professional development.
“Advancing the careers of military and veteran spouses strengthens both our families and our workforce,” said Brig. Gen. Andrew W. Collins, commander of the Maryland Army National Guard. “The Maryland National Guard is proud to support this effort as part of our commitment to readiness and resilience.”
Military and veteran spouses interested in participating as mentors or protégés can apply at veterans.maryland.gov. DVMF will co-host a virtual informational session on May 20, 2026, to provide an overview of the program and explain how to get involved.
Media Contacts:
Maryland Department of Veterans and Military Families
Lindsay Livingston
lindsay.livingsto[email protected]
American Corporate Partners
Leslie Coffey