Each year, more than 200,000 military service members leave active duty, but only a small fraction—about 0.03%—use their G.I. Bill benefits to enter apprenticeship programs that can lead to skilled careers.
In response to this gap, the White House has issued an executive order aimed at creating one million new apprenticeship opportunities across the country. The U.S. Department of Labor recently organized a roundtable discussion in Washington, D.C., focused on improving access for veterans to these programs.
Participants in the roundtable discussed why many veterans overlook apprenticeships supported by the G.I. Bill. One commonly cited reason is that college-bound veterans receive better VA benefits than those who choose apprenticeships, especially regarding housing allowances. Attendees also explored ways to promote unique opportunities in specific trades and strategies to help veterans decide which trade might suit them best.
The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM Union) has established over 1,000 collective bargaining agreements that include some form of apprenticeship training in various high-skill jobs.
Richard Evans, Assistant Director of the IAM Retirees and Membership Assistance Department, addressed the group about how the union matches veteran needs with available support systems. “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.”
The AFL-CIO Veterans program also provides specialized opportunities for veteran apprenticeships and emphasizes holistic well-being for its members. Craig Romanovich, Director of the AFL-CIO Union Veterans Council, stated: “Unions care about the other 16 hours in the day outside your work. If we can make life better in all aspects, you are going to be a better employee.”
