More than 200,000 service members leave the military each year, but only a small fraction—0.03%—use their G.I. Bill benefits to pursue apprenticeship programs that can lead to skilled, long-term careers.
The White House has issued an executive order with the goal of creating one million apprenticeship opportunities across the country. In support of this initiative, the U.S. Department of Labor recently organized a roundtable discussion focused on ensuring veterans have better access to these programs.
One issue raised during the discussion is that many veterans choose not to use their G.I. Bill benefits for apprenticeships because college attendance offers more generous VA benefits, particularly regarding housing allowances. Participants at the roundtable explored different strategies to change this perception and address barriers that prevent veterans from considering apprenticeships as a viable career path.
The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM Union) currently maintains over 1,000 collective bargaining agreements that include some form of apprenticeship training in various high-skill occupations.
Richard Evans, Assistant Director of the IAM Retirees and Membership Assistance Department, spoke about how his organization works to align veteran needs with union resources. “The IAM Union and the Machinists Institute have a program in Washington state that offers daycare, 24/7, so that our apprentices can work shift work if that is what is needed to stay in the program,” said Evans. “We have a myriad of support services built into IAM Union membership. We just need people to realize these support services are there and how to utilize them.”
Craig Romanovich, Director of the AFL-CIO Union Veterans Council, highlighted additional opportunities for veteran apprenticeships through his organization but emphasized broader support for new members: “Unions care about the other 16 hours in the day outside your work,” said Romanovich. “If we can make life better in all aspects, you are going to be a better employee.”
