As manufacturers seek solutions to ongoing workforce challenges, veterans are an underutilized talent pool with the potential to quickly adapt skills gained in the military to ever-changing manufacturing environments. As we recognize our nation’s veterans for their service in defense of our nation, we should also commit to recognizing the unique skills and perspectives they bring to the civilian workforce.
Veterans cultivate essential skills in leadership, maintenance, logistics, and safety that can easily translate to civilian manufacturing roles. They come to the civilian job market with proven experience working under pressure, collaborating with diverse teams, training in multiple disciplines, and troubleshooting complex issues. The rigor and discipline required to succeed in any military service is a promising foundation for a variety of manufacturing careers.
From a practical perspective, federal, state, and nonprofit veteran employment initiatives can help employers fill workforce gaps with qualified veterans while helping veterans pursue education and training related to in-demand positions. For example, the Department of Veterans Affairs’ GI Bill education benefits program will pay participants for pursuing certain approved on-the-job (OJT) training, apprenticeship, degree, or certificate programs. OJT or apprenticeship programs must be in operation for at least two years before seeking VA OJT approval, and meet other established requirements. Each state handles program approvals—Michigan’s State Approving Agency (SAA) can help employers set up or seek approval for an OJT program.
Michigan also has Local Veterans Employment Representatives working in conjunction with Michigan Works! offices to help connect employers with veteran talent and identify any available funds for training and job placement based on the business and veteran’s unique circumstances. Find your local Michigan Works! center here.
The federal Department of Labor also has a vested interest in helping employers connect with qualified veterans. Contact your regional Veterans Employment Coordinator for assistance with setting up a veteran hiring program, learning best practices in supporting your veteran workforce, and finding resources and partnerships in your area.
Finally, if you have new or existing veteran employees and are looking to help them maximize their success, MMTC’s courses and certificate programs can give non-manufacturing employees the manufacturing basics they need to excel in positions from the shop floor to the top floor. See our latest course catalog here.
Manufacturers and military veterans are both critical to the success of our nation. Together, they can create a resilient and formidable industry that can compete and succeed in an increasingly global marketplace.
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