DOD to Resume Restructured Military Spouse Career Program

From the Department of Defense

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- The Department of Defense announced July 20 the resumption of a restructured military spouse career advancement account program - MyCAA, following a comprehensive review.

The program will be available to spouses of service members in the pay grades of E1-E5, W1-W2 and O1-O2 beginning Oct. 25.

"The changes announced today reflect a return to the original intent of the program, which is to help military spouses, with the greatest need, successfully enter, navigate and advance in portable careers," said Clifford Stanley, undersecretary of defense for personnel and readiness. "We fully support the program and are committed to ensuring the program's sustainability. To that end, we are making several critical operational changes."

Amongst these changes, eligible spouses will receive a total of $4,000 in DoD-funded financial aid, with an annual cap of $2,000 per fiscal year; funding must be used within a three-year time period from the start date of the first class; and must be used to obtain an associates' degree, licensure or certification. A waiver may be granted when fees for licensure or certification require an up-front fee greater than $2,000 and up to the total maximum assistance of $4,000.

"The MyCAA program popularity grew beyond our expectations and became too expensive to continue. Therefore, we are returning to the original intent of the program in a way that is attainable and fiscally responsible for the Defense Department," said Stanley. "As we look to the future, we envision a program that is much broader than DoD's financial assistance component. Military spouses will be guided along a more holistic approach to career planning."

Under the long-term program guidelines, career counselors will continue to work with all military spouses to help develop career and education goals and plans and assist them in identifying and accessing available federal education benefits toward these goals.

"Families play a crucial role in supporting our men and women on the battlefield. When service members are confident that their families at home have access to resources and support, they are better able to focus on their mission," said Stanley. "The Defense Department is committed to investing in military families. When we invest in the well-being of the family, we invest in the well-being of the force."