Helping Veterans Transition into Job Market

Alumnus Nick Dutter combines the wealth of knowledge he received in the military with his Suffolk education for the good of fellow veterans.

Leadership and discipline

Suffolk alumnus and former Army Sgt. Nick Dutter is in the business of helping other veterans make the transition from the war zone to the job market.

As a veteran outreach coordinator with the Red Sox Foundation and Massachusetts General Hospital Home Base Program, one of his responsibilities is connecting out-of-work veterans with large companies throughout New England.

Dutter, who remembers having trouble finding a job when he returned from Iraq in 2005, admits that this part of his job can be challenging.

“First tank north of Baghdad on your resume doesn’t appeal to civilian employers,” he says.

Dutter earned a master’s degree in finance from Suffolk University’s Sawyer Business School in 2009. He then worked as a hedge fund analyst, but left in 2011 to help service members returning home. As it turns out, he made the right move.

“I absolutely love my job; it’s very meaningful and rewarding,” he says. “It combines the wealth of knowledge I’ve received with my military background and my Suffolk education. Taking advantage of the career-mentoring program at Suffolk allowed me a wonderful opportunity to network and prove myself.”

Dutter shares an important bond with other veterans. “I’ve been in the same combat environment as them, seeing the worst that life has to offer,” he says.

Dutter was one of the featured panelists at the April 2012 seminar Marketing Your Military Service, hosted by the University to provide resources and tools for job seeking veterans.

Dutter stresses the importance of networking to veterans looking to secure a job. He encourages them to attend dinners, fundraisers and community events – ideal forums to meet people face to face and exchange business cards.

“You have to make yourself known and demonstrate that you really want to work,” he says.

When pitching his military clients to prospective organizations, Dutter’s plan of attack is straight and to the point.

“I tell them that a military education is a very valuable experience,” he says. “I highlight all the good qualities a veteran has to offer, such as leadership, discipline and attention to detail.”

Dutter shared his story with other young alumni who were recognized for their career accomplishments at a “10 Under 10” reception in April. All 10 of the alumni honored earned their Suffolk University degrees within the past decade.