Unlocking Veteran Talent in Manufacturing

I enjoyed interviewing retired Lieutenant Colonel Lt. Col. (Ret) Kathy Lowrey Gallowitz on the #ManufacturersNetwork #podcast. Kathy, a career Air Force veteran, has dedicated her post-military career to helping employers understand the value that veterans bring to the civilian workforce. Here are some actionable insights from our conversation that you can implement today to enhance your workplace culture and retain top talent.

#Veterans bring a wealth of experience, discipline, and skills that can be invaluable to any organization, especially in the manufacturing sector. Here’s why:

1. Safety First Mindset: Safety is paramount in the military. Veterans are trained to prioritize safety in every operation, a mindset that aligns perfectly with the manufacturing industry's emphasis on safety protocols.

2. Leadership and Teamwork: Veterans are often natural #leaders and #teamplayers. They are accustomed to leading teams under pressure and ensuring every member contributes to the mission's success. This ability to build and lead effective teams is a significant asset in any manufacturing environment.

3. Operational Discipline: The military instills a strong sense of discipline. Veterans are trained to follow procedures meticulously and ensure quality assurance at every step, which is crucial in maintaining high standards in manufacturing processes.

4. Technical Proficiency and Adaptability: Many veterans have hands-on experience with technical equipment and machinery, often more advanced than what's found in civilian workplaces. Their ability to quickly adapt to new technologies and solve problems creatively makes them valuable employees, especially in high-pressure situations.

5. Resilience and Mission Focus: Veterans are highly resilient and mission-focused, traits that make them effective in any role. They are used to working in challenging environments and can stay calm under pressure, making them reliable anchors in your workforce.

Best Practices for Hiring and Retaining Veterans

To successfully hire and retain veterans, it's essential to understand their unique needs and experiences. Here are some strategies to consider:

1. Involve Current Veteran Employees: Engage your existing veteran employees in hiring. Invite them to career fairs or interviews to speak directly with potential hires. This peer-to-peer interaction helps build trust and allows veterans to speak the same language, easing the transition for new hires.

2. Establish a Buddy System: Implement a buddy or mentorship program that pairs new veteran hires with a military and civilian mentor. This dual mentorship helps them navigate the cultural differences between military and civilian workplaces and provides a safe space to ask questions and acclimate to their new environment.

3. Create a Veteran Voice Committee: Form an employee resource group or veteran voice committee to provide ongoing support, informal mentoring, and a platform for veterans to share their experiences and suggestions. This committee can also serve as a valuable resource for gathering feedback on improving the workplace environment for veteran employees.

4. Offer Military Culture Training: Educate your workforce on military culture to foster a more inclusive environment. Understanding the unique experiences and skills veterans bring can help bridge the gap between civilian and military life, making the transition smoother for everyone involved.

5. Develop Clear Career Pathways: Veterans are accustomed to structured environments with clear paths for advancement. Providing clear career ladders and opportunities for growth can help retain veteran talent by aligning with their expectations and aspirations.

Supporting Veterans Beyond Hiring

Beyond the hiring process, it’s crucial to foster a supportive environment where veterans feel valued and understood. Kathy emphasized the importance of being more than just an advocate for veterans. Instead, employers should strive to be architects of a veteran-friendly workplace. This involves creating a strategic plan integrating veterans into every aspect of the organization, from marketing and talent acquisition to HR and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives.

Connect with your local veteran community or veteran-focused organizations to integrate these practices into your organization. Explore opportunities to participate in veteran career fairs or to host military culture training sessions. By taking these steps, you will enhance your workplace culture and tap into a talent pool that can drive innovation, efficiency, and resilience in your organization.