SALUTING SERVICE. The thousands of men and women who transition out of the U.S. Armed Forces annually bring with them skills that can be applicable to civilian jobs. (U.S. Air Force photo/public domain)

More than 250,000 people transition out of active duty in the U.S. military annually, bringing the skills and experience they gained from Uncle Sam to the civilian workforce. Now, the Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce is partnering with a statewide group designed to connect these veterans with private-sector positions.

The Eau Claire Chamber recently announced its partnership with Mission: Workforce Alliance, a program of the Middleton Chamber of Commerce Foundation. Kaylynn Winegar, the Eau Claire Chamber’s vice president of investor engagement, said the organization is always looking for ways to attract qualified workers to the region.

“The No. 1 challenge for many companies is finding workers: quality folks who have skills already,” Winegar said. Unlike other previous veteran-oriented programs, Mission: Workforce Alliance features an online system to help connect candidates with employers, she said.

Kate Miller, president and CEO of Mission: Workforce Alliance, said the program is meant to help transitioning service members (TSMs) as well as veterans and military spouses. “Their skills and experiences foster a more inclusive and diverse workforce,” Miller said.

“The program simplifies the recruitment process, making it more accessible and cost-effective for businesses.” –Kate Miller, Mission: Workforce Alliance

In addition to serving men and women who have served their country, Miller noted her organization wants to help fill an estimated shortage of 140,000 workers in Wisconsin’s labor pool as the state’s population ages.

“The program simplifies the recruitment process, making it more accessible and cost-effective for businesses,” she explained. “Through resources and training offered as part of the program, businesses will better understand and leverage the diverse capabilities and experiences of veteran employees. This comprehensive approach not only aids businesses in overcoming common hiring obstacles but also unlocks the potential of a highly skilled and adaptable talent pool.”

Available candidates have skills that include project management, information technology, logistics, human resources, manufacturing, maintenance, and more more. Partnering with groups like the Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce gives chamber member businesses the benefit of connecting with qualified workers, particularly those who might relocated to Wisconsin from out of state, Miller said.

“Collaborating with chambers statewide helps to ensure these talented individuals find meaningful employment while enriching our communities,” she added.

For more information about how to get involved with Mission Workforce Alliance, visit missionworkforcealliance.org.