Lansing — AARP launched the AARP Veterans and Military Spouses Job Center, a new digital platform bringing together valuable information and resources to help Michigan’s 672,000 veterans and military spouses compete in today’s job market.

The job center includes a new Veterans Career Advantage Course to build on career planning and skills development to help navigate the job market. According to an AARP survey, more than half — 56% — of employers say experience and the use of skills in previous positions are “very important” when evaluating applicant’s skills.

The AARP Veterans and Military Spouses Job Center features a range of free resources:

— New Veterans Career Advantage Course, which focuses on career planning and skills development.

— The AARP Job Board features a “Veterans Wanted” filter so transitioning and former service members can quickly find employers that value their military experience.

— New AARP Veterans and Military Spouses Job Search Toolkit — a comprehensive guide to find and secure employment.

— New AARP Video: Tips for Veterans to Ace A Civilian Job Interview.

— AARP Webinar: Rethinking Work for Veterans, Military and their Families on hiring and career trends to help adapt to a quickly changing job market.

On Wednesday, AARP’s Online Career Expo will feature live veterans forums/panels, webinars, opportunities to ask other veterans for advice, and jobs from military-friendly employers. Other resources include AARP Resume Advisor, AARP Skills Builder for WorkSM, Be Your Own Boss, and Small Business Resource Center for the 50-plus. To learn more go to www.aarp.org/vetsjobcenter.