Solving the Skills Gap by Putting Veterans to Work

While manufacturers are hyper aware of the US skills gap mentioned in previous posts, it’s not something the public is familiar with. More than 80 percent of manufacturers report they cannot find people to fill their skilled production jobs. And while there are plenty of millennials in need of jobs, the manufacturing industry relies on the type of loyalty and devotion to a company that is necessary to withstand extensive skills and safety training. Unfortunately, current working culture influences the majority to jump companies in search of advancement. In some industries, this is without much consequence; our industry is an exception.

As a country, however, we are extremely loyal. We understand the value of American manufacturing, treasuring the knowledge that our products are made at home. To mend glaring contradiction between American values needs and workforce culture, it is clear the industry must attract quality candidates with the existing or transferable skills necessary to remain competitive in the global marketplace.

The self-evident solution to the problem is to unleash the power of our most loyal and underutilized workforce demographic: Our military Veterans. Each month, thousands of servicemen and women transition to civilian life who demonstrate both technical aptitude and exceptional work ethic.

Technical Skills

As arguably the strongest military in the world, who is more acquainted with advanced technical machinery than the United States armed forces? Our service members’ skills are easily transferred as they are taught how to operate and maintain state-of-the-art equipment. Not to mention, they understand the consequences of failed machines.

Trusted Reliability

Veterans know how to accomplish tasks on-time despite any mounting pressure or stress. They have a proven track record of coming to work every day and persisting through tedious tasks. When faced with adversity, they search for guidance and resources rather than giving up. They are willing to work hard for great rewards. This results in learning complicated skills and concepts faster than the average new employee.

Respect for Procedure

Manufacturing, much like the military, is heavily grounded in procedure–and for a good reason. Both can potentially be dangerous if certain precautions are not taken. While we can teach technical skills to almost anyone, it is much harder to teach respect for procedure and protocols. Veterans are meticulous about health and safety standards making them an ideal employee in manufacturing.

Leadership and Teamwork

The military trains our soldiers in both how to take directions and give them. They are taught to lead by example and help one another. Moreover, they have the experience of working in diverse teams with people of different religions, ethnicity, and social classes. This ensures fewer team-related issues and a more productive workforce.

Right now, the people who have served our country with dedication and loyalty are searching for jobs at an even greater rate than we are searching for employees to fill the gaps. It seems there is not a better match. Often Veterans struggle to reintegrate sometimes having never written a resume or interviewed with an employer while serving in the military. This makes finding a good job difficult. Nevertheless, they have years of transferable experience and incredible skills. In the manufacturing industry, we should place a premium on their experience and take notice of the high value they bring to the table.

The Cleveland Deburring Machine Company can provide a deburring solution for gears, sprockets, aerospace and defense, power transmission, powdered metals, fluid power and custom deburring applications. Our no-charge application evaluation includes a detailed report and process description in as little as 3 to 5 business days. Contact CDMC today for a deburring machine that’s right for you.