After years of dedicated service to the country, many U.S military veterans find the transition to civilian life incredibly difficult, especially when it comes to finding employment. According to a study produced by the Wounded Warrior Project, 40 percent of veterans struggle to find full-time employment after their contract ends and about a third of veterans who do find work get jobs below their skill level.
The skilled trades are becoming a viable option for veterans and active-duty members looking to transition out of their enlistment. Partnering with trade schools and other programs that assist veterans in their transition can lead to a new workforce pipeline. Below, Chad Ogle, Vice President of High School Admissions at StrataTech Education Group, outlines some of the opportunities available for veterans and those seeking veterans as employees.
Many trade schools cater toward veterans and offer military scholarships, reduced tuition, and transition support. For example, at StrataTech Education Group, one of the largest skilled trade schools in the country, there are several scholarships awarding up to $2,500 for students who were in the military, women in service, and students whose parents are active-duty members.
In addition, the GI bill can help those pursuing a trade education. By using the GI Bill to cover tuition, fees, and sometimes even supplies, veterans can gain valuable hands-on experience and certifications with little to no out-of-pocket cost.
Because veterans can quickly enter the trade workforce without too long of an educational time commitment, partnerships are key for companies looking to fill open positions.
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Many active-duty service members start their training while still contracted with their branch. The SkillBridge program, founded in 2011, is a program through the U.S. Department of Defense to support active-duty military service members transitioning back into civilian life. Through the program, service members can gain work experience, internships, job training, or education during their last 180 days of service, while still receiving military pay and benefits. Active-duty members can enroll at schools like StrataTech.
There are also thousands of industry partners across a wide range of fields. (Visit skillbridge.osd.mil for more information.) StrataTech has found students who are enrolled in a program through SkillBridge have a higher rate of successful employment and steady careers after they complete their military commitment.
With high-paying jobs, consistent opportunities, and aligned discipline veterans already possess from their military training, the skilled trades are a great option for service members transitioning back to civilian life. Partnering with trade schools and other military assistance programs provides a key avenue for addressing construction workforce shortages.
