Abstract:This qualitative study explored the employment journey of veterans with service-connected disabilities as they obtain and maintain civilian employment. The research addressed a gap in understanding how supportive and inclusive work environments, where leaders meet veterans’ psychological needs, autonomy, relatedness, and competence can mitigate barriers to civilian employment and improve work motivation, experience, and aid the veteran in achieving job satisfaction. The research sought to answer the following question: “How do veterans with service-connected disabilities describe their employment journey of gaining and maintaining employment in the civilian workforce?" The study design is generic qualitative inquiry. The sample consisted of post 9/11 veterans who have acquired service-connected disabilities who had successfully obtained and maintained civilian employment. Each participant had at least 2 years of civilian employment experience. The data was analyzed thematically, identifying recurring patterns and themes in the veterans’ responses. The study provided six themes: Navigating the Unknown-Transition Anxiety and Barriers, Redefining the Purpose-Autonomy through Skill Development, Strength in Structure-Competence Gained from Military Discipline, Connection as a Catalyst-Importance of Support Systems, Double Edged Identity-Veteran Status and Perceived Bias and Sustainability-Maintaining Long Term Success Post Transition. The research findings expanded current knowledge regarding post-9/11 veterans who have acquired service-connected disabilities and their employment journey to obtaining and maintaining civilian employment.