APSU Researchers Highlight Military-to-Teaching Pathways

Study explores how veterans' skills translate to the classroom amid teacher shortages

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Two Austin Peay State University employees presented research at a national education conference on how military service translates into teaching skills, part of a year-long study to inform veteran recruitment efforts and address widespread teacher shortages in Tennessee.

Why it matters

With Tennessee facing an ongoing teacher shortage, APSU's large veteran student population represents a potential pipeline to address these gaps while supporting post-military career transitions. The research aims to highlight how veterans' unique skills and experiences can be valuable assets in the classroom.

The details

Dr. Joanne Philhower, an assistant professor, and Jasmin Linares, assistant vice president for Military and Veterans Affairs, met with veteran students in focus groups to identify key connections between military service and teaching skills. Their findings showed veterans excel at classroom management, relationship building, adaptability, and leadership - all valuable teaching competencies. Based on this, APSU is developing targeted programming to support veteran students pursuing education degrees and recruit more veterans to address teacher shortages.

  • The research was conducted throughout the 2025-26 academic year.
  • The researchers presented their findings at the Association of Teacher Educators Annual Meeting in February 2026.

The players

Dr. Joanne Philhower

An assistant professor in the Eriksson College of Education at Austin Peay State University who conducted the research based on her experience teaching veteran students.

Jasmin Linares

The assistant vice president for Military and Veterans Affairs at Austin Peay State University, who partnered with Dr. Philhower on the research project.

Austin Peay State University

A public university in Clarksville, Tennessee, where approximately 33% of students are military affiliated.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I am thankful that the Military and Veterans Affairs Division has been so open to collaborating and helping me understand the military side of things. In having discussions with my dad about my research and my interactions with student veterans, he has been more willing to share information about his military experience. Not only has this research helped me think about how I can support this special population better, but it has also helped me personally in my relationship with my dad.”

— Dr. Joanne Philhower, Assistant Professor (clarksvillenow.com)

What’s next

Based on the research findings, the Eriksson College of Education and the Military and Veterans Affairs Division at Austin Peay State University are developing targeted programming, including workshops, transition conversations, and strategic recruitment efforts to encourage more veterans to consider teaching as a career.

The takeaway

This initiative highlights how universities can leverage their veteran student populations to address critical teacher shortages, while also supporting post-military career transitions and strengthening connections between military and civilian communities.