VA reached more than 400,000 staff for the first time in history last year, as it brought in more than 61,000 hires to the Veterans Health Administration. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is seeking to rebuild the agency’s workforce, comprised of 78,000 civilians and Foreign Service officers. For specific skills gaps or hard-to-recruit positions, HUD can offer a higher salary to aid recruitment and retention. Leaders lament that the tech industry does not have a history of public service in career choices. The spouse employment initiative is an effort to "stave off a national security crisis." The move could help expand the number of eligible candidates who apply to the bureau. Agencies will be able to share certifications for positions that are similar in grade level, duty location and performance level. Grizzly bear handling experience is needed. Emerging technologies play a critical role in both waging and foiling influence campaigns, according to the Defense Department's strategy. In an interview with Military Times, VA Secretary Denis McDonough said he still thinks his department needs to hire more staffers. Load More