New Program Will Assist Nellis Air Force Base Airmen Transition to Public Sector Careers
LAS VEGAS 11/12/2019– Airmen at Nellis Air Force Base who choose to leave the military will have access to new resources and training to help them successfully translate their military skills to the private sector workforce, thanks to a new program announced by Bank of Nevada, Nellis Air Force Base, and STEM 101.
The Veteran Employment Connection of Southern Nevada will assist the approximately 840 Nellis Air Force Base Airmen (the military uses this term to identify men and women) who leave the military each year, once their enlistment obligation is fulfilled. Despite the fact these military members possess the soft skills, technical knowledge, discipline and drive desired by private sector employers, many airmen struggle to recognize their value in the private sector, as well as the career opportunities that exist for them. Additionally, many airmen who exit the military also choose to leave Nevada in search of a new career, which denies in-state employers access to hundreds of skilled workers every year. The program will focus considerable effort on keeping former airmen in Nevada where they are well-suited to move into careers among in-demand industries.
“Our mission is to bridge the career awareness gap for Airmen leaving the military and help them qualify for in-demand careers in Southern Nevada,” said Russell Mickelson, from STEM 101. “We partner with major employers to decode the competencies job seekers must demonstrate in order to qualify for in-demand careers. The U.S. Air Force is the best in the world for a reason. Airmen receive the highest quality of education and training available. While less than three percent of Airmen fly planes, they all possess a mission critical mindset employers are desperately searching for. It’s a win-win for all involved.”
Bank of Nevada and Western Alliance Bank are committed to working with the military, including Nellis Air Force Base, so that qualified veterans are fully aware of the many career opportunities that exist, including management training programs that are also available for applicants.
“Bank of Nevada has the opportunity to support airmen who have served their country and now may need some assistance in seeing what their non-military future can be,” said John Guedry, division CEO, Bank of Nevada. “This is a great opportunity for us to help airmen make the transition into the public sector while also helping our organization create a pipeline of qualified workers that have the skills that are essential to our industry.”
In an alliance with Nellis Air Force Base, STEM 101 will work with airmen approximately six months before their military service ends. STEM 101 will provide assessment, information, training and resources that connect them with employers in Nevada’s in-demand careers. Airmen who are interested in occupations that require additional training or certification will learn how and where to get those additional skills. For qualifying candidates, many employers will cover part or all of the cost of additional training and certification. Most in-demand careers that employers are seeking to fill do not require a 4-year college degree