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Fort Bragg’s Transitioning Servicemembers Are Ready for Your Manufacturing Jobs

With the skills shortage impeding manufacturers’ ability to fill their open positions, it comes as no surprise that businesses across North Carolina are turning to innovative new ways to build the talent they need, like on-the-job training and apprenticeships. One solution that many North Carolina manufacturers are taking advantage of is a new training program at Fort Bragg run by the National Association of Manufacturers’ education and training partner, the Manufacturing Institute: Heroes MAKE America.

Our country’s servicemembers and veterans often have the rigorous skills training, impressive leadership skills and exemplary work ethic that manufacturers are seeking for their open positions. However, the transition from military life to a factory floor can be difficult as veterans struggle with translating their military experience to the skills and language civilians understand.

The Manufacturing Institute created Heroes MAKE America to help build a bridge between the military and manufacturing. During the 8-week training program, participants earn the Certified Production Technician certification as well as OSHA 10 and forklift operation. They also receive career readiness instruction, such as resume writing, interview skills and LinkedIn training. With weekly manufacturing plant tours, participants are exposed to the realities of careers in this modern and exciting industry, meeting veterans and other leaders in the field and building relationships that connect them to potential careers.

The Heroes program launched at Ft. Riley, Kansas in January of 2018 and is now operating on five installations with over 250 graduates and 90% placement rate in 37 states and 3 countries.  Ft. Bragg just launched in the spring of 2019, and we are thrilled that North Carolina manufacturers have the opportunity to participate in recruiting this great talent to our state.

For manufacturers and businesses in North Carolina, Heroes MAKE America represents a strong pool of talent to fill your in-demand positions. We encourage you to participate by hosting tours, attending networking and other events, or receiving participant resumes. For more information on how you can get involved with Heroes MAKE America, contact heroes@nam.org.