Collaboration has the power to shape lives

HII Mission Technologies supports FourBlock’s nationwide Career Readiness Program, which blends structure, mentorship and employer engagement to give veterans confidence as they move into the “new normal” of civilian work.

For Mission Technologies Talent Acquisition Lead Ricardo “Rico” Munoz, a U.S. Army veteran and key contributor to HII’s SkillBridge program, the collaboration reflects HII’s commitment to supporting veterans well beyond recruiting. Munoz joins FourBlock webinars as a guest host, sharing insight into HII’s mission, opportunities and career pathways. He also provides transition guidance shaped by his own military experience and serves as a direct point of contact for employment.

“FourBlock creates a direct bridge between transitioning veterans and real career opportunities,” Munoz said. “By removing barriers and providing structured support, the program helps veterans gain confidence while allowing HII to connect with mission-ready talent who already understand teamwork, adaptability and dedication.”

For veterans in the cohort, that support is tangible. Mission Technologies Project Manager Christopher “Chris” Miley, experienced both programs firsthand: completing a SkillBridge internship with the team and participating in a FourBlock cohort before joining HII this year.

After serving 22 years in the U.S. Air Force, “I was recommended by a fellow veteran, and like many others, the transition made me a bit uneasy,” Miley said. “I wanted a clearer sense of direction and a community that truly understood the unique challenges of transitioning service members.”

What stood out most, he said, was how invested instructors, mentors and guest speakers were in the cohort’s success. “It felt less like a program and more like joining a professional network that supports you throughout the cohort and continues to provide opportunities afterward.”

Miley said FourBlock differs from other transition programs because it goes far beyond resume workshops or job boards. “The program focuses on developing purpose, clarity and confidence, not just landing a job,” he said. Through coaching, self-assessments and practical guidance, he learned to translate his military strengths into business language and shape a civilian career path that aligned with his long-term goals.

“What really sets FourBlock apart is that it walks you through the entire job search process—from telling your story, to building a resume, to interviewing, to accepting a job, and even navigating your first 30/60/90 days,” he said. “Other programs I’ve attended stop at the resume or interview.”

HII’s continued participation—through SkillBridge, volunteer mentors, leader engagement and partnerships like FourBlock—helps veterans feel valued for their experience while connecting the company with mission-driven talent.