As a military veteran and recruiter at PRIDE Industries, Elijah Harris is dedicated to veteran readiness and employment for fellow veterans and people with disabilities. But the journey that brought him here was not a straight path—an experience that many veterans can relate to.
“I just wanted a chance to prove myself and help others who’ve walked the same road I have. I know what it’s like to feel lost after leaving the military, and I want to be the person who helps others find their way.”
Service Shapes Purpose
Inspired by his older brother, who served in the Navy, Elijah felt a calling to enlist.
“At first, I wanted to go into the Navy with him, but I decided to join the Army instead. I wanted to leave California and see a different part of the world.”
In January 2015, Elijah began his service as a 92 Yankee Unit Supply Specialist at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, serving in the 1-14 Cavalry, First Brigade, Second Infantry Division until 2018. His role involved managing military equipment worth thousands of dollars, an experience that built discipline and leadership, and laid the foundation for Elijah’s future in veteran readiness and employment.
“Some think that because you have a disability, you can’t do the job. But at PRIDE Industries, we know that’s not true. Veterans bring leadership, resilience, respect, and integrity to the workplace”
From GI Bill to Career in Veteran Readiness and Employment
When Elijah left the service, he knew he wanted to help others. But like many veterans, he faced unexpected challenges.
“When I got out, I wanted to go straight into work. But resume building and interviewing were not skills the military or high school taught me,” Elijah shared. “I also didn’t know how to translate the skills I learned in the Army into skills for the civilian workforce.”
Elijah decided to use the GI Bill to go to college after his service. After earning his degree in history from Sonoma State University, Elijah began working as the African American and Veteran Outreach Recruitment Counselor for the university. This role allowed him to connect with other veterans, and fueled his interest in veteran readiness and employment.
“As a recruiter for Sonoma State, I grew this passion to help veterans because I knew where I was when I got out of the military. I knew how lost I was. I didn’t know what I wanted to do, and I felt like I was just running around like a chicken with its head cut off.”
Veteran Readiness and Employment at PRIDE Industries
It was his passion for helping other veterans that led Elijah to PRIDE Industries, which he discovered through LinkedIn.
“I looked up what the mission statement was and immediately said yes,” he said. “Seeing their dedication for veterans and people with disabilities, I thought, ‘Wow, maybe I should think about applying.’”
Alongside hundreds of other veterans seeking employment, Elijah attended PRIDE Industries’ annual Hire A Veteran Day event.
“I went to the event and immediately got an interview,” Elijah said. “I then met the whole team there. I knew right away that PRIDE Industries was different.”
Elijah was hired as a recruiter for a contract made possible by AbilityOne, a program that provides employment for people with disabilities on federal government projects. Based at PRIDE Industries Career Hub in Citrus Heights, this role was a great fit for Elijah, allowing him to combine his military experience, education, and passion for veteran readiness and employment.
“Some companies say they want to hire veterans, but they don’t always live up to that promise. I applied to many jobs and got many turndowns.”
Elijah now helps other veterans navigate these same challenges, enabling them to realize their full potential.
“It just takes one person to talk to you and say, ‘Hey, this is the right way to go.’ I wanted to be that person for others.”
Elijah’s Message to Veterans and Employers
Elijah has a message for any military veterans struggling to find work.
“Seek out resources, attend stand-down events, and connect with veteran-friendly hiring organizations like PRIDE Industries.”
Attending PRIDE Industries’ Hire A Veteran Day event last year was a turning point in Elijah’s career. This year, he was back at the event, helping other veterans navigate the hiring process in his role as a recruiter.
“It was surreal to be on the other side, knowing I could make a difference in a veteran’s life. Employment is so important, especially with the cost of living rising. To be an advocate and help others get jobs brings me a lot of pride,” Elijah said.
For recruiters and employers, his advice is clear.
“Do your research on veterans and people with disabilities. These people have sacrificed so much. Take the time to understand their experiences and skills.”
He also speaks candidly about the misconceptions that often hold employers back.
“Some think that because you have a disability, you can’t do the job. But at PRIDE Industries, we know that’s not true. Veterans bring leadership, resilience, respect, and integrity to the workplace.”