When U.S. troops return home from war, they may have jobs available in the Energy Sector.
Five energy companies announced their involvement in Troops to Energy Jobs, a program that will place returning war veterans into civilian jobs within the energy sector.
With nearly 40 % of the nation's energy workforce either eligible for retirement or departing jobs due to attrition during the next five years, electricity, natural gas companies and the nuclear power industry are facing a potential worker shortage.
Many military veterans are returning home after tours of duty without a clear path toward jobs or ready access to apply skills learned in the armed services.
"The extensive military training, strong work ethic and leadership skills endemic to success in the military make veterans highly desirable employees for energy companies," says Tom Farrell, Dominion Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer. "The goal of the Troops to Energy Jobs program—working with five pilot electric companies—is to develop and perfect a robust national model for more quickly and effectively connecting this stream of qualified veterans to jobs that will be opening up in the energy sector."
The program is designed to establish an ongoing process of outreach, recruiting, education and training to create a pathway for military personnel to transition from the service into civilian careers in the energy field.
The five companies contributing to the effort include:
· American Electric Power
· Dominion
· Southern Company
· Pacific Gas and Electric Company
· Arizona Public Service