NEWS: Eurest Welcomes Veterans Through Department of Defense Partnership

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (November 11, 2024) – Our nation’s veterans have given so much through their military service, and Eurest is proud to support them in building promising careers as they step into the future they envision.

In 2024, Eurest, Compass Group USA’s national foodservice provider for business and industry market, became a partner in the Department of Defense SkillBridge program, providing hands-on training and mentorship to military veterans transitioning from active service into civilian life.

Compass Group earned the recognition and distinction as a DOD SkillBridge industry partner in December 2023. The DOD SkillBridge program is an opportunity for service members to gain valuable civilian work experience during the last 180 days of service through on-the-job training and mentorship. Compass Group, Eurest and ESFM have committed to offer job opportunities to SkillBridge fellows after the fellowship period ends.

“Our role is to meet our veterans where they are and support how they want to exit military service,” said Dawn Lyons, Sr. Director, HR & Military Talent. “Helping veterans who possess a diverse skill set in technical and specialized areas find career paths that are fulfilling and lasting is an honor and a joy.”

As a leading participant of the SkillBridge program within Compass Group USA, Eurest has placed six veterans into foodservice and hospitality roles in cities coast to coast, including San Diego, Boston, San Antonio, Oklahoma City and more.

“We provide the necessary training and support to incoming SkillBridge fellows to make the experience is mutually beneficial and fulfilling,” said Robin Hernaez, Eurest Vice President of Culinary Services. “One of the first questions we ask is, what do you want to achieve during your time? From there, we tailor our teaching approach, so it is truly based on individual goals.”

After serving 22 years in the U.S. Air Force, where Clarissa Rosinski specialized in food service, recreation management, and organizing community events, she decided to follow her passion for foodservice.

She joined the SkillBridge program and was placed to train as a Chef Manager for a large retail client in Massachusetts. Clarissa is now working toward her master’s degree in gastronomy, the study of food and culture.

After graduating, she plans to pursue a full-time position, building on her experience as a chef manager and her education in gastronomy.

Jennifer Beard has served as a logistics specialist in the U.S. Navy for the past eight years. She joined one of Eurest’s technology accounts in San Diego to pursue a full-time career in the culinary industry.

“I learned so much. The team was always by my side, helping me with everything from small details to bigger tasks. Now, I feel confident, and I would encourage others to take part in the SkillBridge program. Don’t be afraid, give your best, and you’ll get it—just like I did,” says Jennifer.

If you are interested in learning more about DoD SkillBridge opportunities at Compass Group., please reach out to [email protected].

pictured: Clarissa Roskinski