CNCMachines.net recently introduced the Veteran to Machinist program, which will award three $1,000 scholarships to veterans who want to pursue careers as machinists, in its efforts to support American manufacturing.
To qualify, veterans submit copies of their record of service (DD214), along with a 1,000-word essay on why they want to become a machinist, to cncmachines.net/veterans-scholarships. One scholarship a month will be awarded in February, March and April 2019. Winners will be announced Feb. 12, March 12 and April 16.
“I know two things,” said Curt Doherty, founder and CEO of CNCMachines.net. “First, a shortage of skilled labor is the biggest challenge that manufacturers face. Second, veterans have the transferable skills, work ethic and integrity that are a perfect fit for the industry.”
Doherty’s viewpoint is shared by the Manufacturing Institute, which determined in its publication, “From Military Front Lines to Manufacturing Front Lines: Veterans and Your Workforce,” that ex-military personnel make excellent manufacturing workers. The report specifically calls out certain traits that veterans typically possess that meld well in the manufacturing industry such as an ability to readily learn new skills and concepts, leadership skills, understanding of the value of teamwork, performing well under pressure, respect for procedures, and being attuned to global and technological trends, as well as health and safety standards.
The natural fit of veterans with manufacturing also was recognized by other military and manufacturing organizations, including military.com—the largest online military and veteran membership organization, with more than 10 million members.
“As a company, we want to help the American manufacturing industry and CNCMachines.net will continue to do what we can to ensure its strong future,” Doherty said. “If there is any group who I believe can make the biggest difference and help achieve that, it’s our United States veterans.”
Founded in 2014, CNCMachines.net carries more than 500 machines to meet the needs of small to mid-sized American manufacturers.
Earlier this year, the organization also announced a competitive award for students enrolled in a CNC machinist, CNC operations, engineering or manufacturing certificate or degree program that included a donation to the winner’s machining or manufacturing department to help fund purchase or upgrade of tools or supplies.