Operation Austin partners together theAustin Chamber, Ft. Hood and local businesses to create pathways for veterans to find jobs in fields they already have experience in during their service.

"I think when you're hiring a vet, you're getting a great product," said Col.Matthew Elledge, Garrison Commander at Ft. Hood.

The soldiers have hands-on experience in the information technology and healthcare fields during their tours of duty, said Jeff Browning, a recruiting partner with Austin Ventures. Those qualities and talent will be very beneficial to Austins businesses, he said.

"About 600 to 800 active members transition out of service from Ft. Hood each month. Those veterans need help and guidance finding fields for their talents during a transition time from a life of great structure to a sea of possibilities," Capt. Darryl Frost said. "Frost transitioned out of Ft. Hood 12 years ago and now works for a public relations group in Austin."

Operation Austin will host a job fair Feb. 26 as part of the first event to encourage businesses to hire veterans. About 25 businesses have already signed up to participate in the job, but Browning said he hopes to see about 50 businesses come out. The job fair will be at Ft. Hood in Killeen from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.