There is a shortage of qualified workers in the manufacturing sector, and this industry wants service members to fill the gap.
Manufacturing jobs, such as the ones offered at Advanced Technology Systems Company -- a manufacturing services provider -- need veterans with technical skills honed while deployed in Iraq or Afghanistan to bring back to the American workforce.
These technical skills can consist of industrial parts repair, production equipment maintenance and information technology (IT) infrastructure support. Very few employees, without military training, can fill these positions.
What's more, the shortage in skilled employees might cost manufacturers millions of dollars. According to an ATS survey, the majority of respondents said the cost of a shortage in skilled workers will cost an average of $50 million per company.
As a result, ATS consistently recruits former military personnel and educates other companies about the benefits of hiring service members.
"We are proud to support our veterans by offering them an opportunity in the civilian sector where their skills and military experience are appreciated," ATS President Jeffrey Owens said in a press release.
Additionally, ATS recruits service members for their strong work ethic as well as their technical skills. ATS published a survey of more than 100 senior manufacturing executives that shows why veterans are good job candidates for these technical positions.
According to the results, more than 72% of survey participants say hiring former military members reduces training costs and quickly provides skilled labor.
Manufacturing executives also said the following make hiring former military attractive:
- 81% of executives say veterans are disciplined.
- 70% say veterans are extremely dedicated to their mission.
- 69% of survey participants cited veterans' strong leadership skills.
- 55% say veterans' problem-solving skills are great attributes.
"I don't think a lot of people realize how disciplined and professional military people are," said Holly Turner, military recruitment manager for ATS. "And they all have the type of skills that are valuable to companies."
If you're a veteran, retiree or transitioning service member ready to fill the gap, then visit Military.com's Veteran Jobs Board. Using the jobs board can connect you with employers in the manufacturing industry looking for veterans. And veterans working in manufacturing can use this service to help other service members find employment in the industry.
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