Neel Mehta
Raytheon, General Motors, and the U.S. Army have certified the first graduating class of their training program for soldiers that will transition into the private sector as service technicians for GM.
Raytheon said Tuesday the first class in the 12-week “Shifting Gears” automotive technician training program produced 23 graduates who have received certification to work in GM dealerships across the U.S.
“They offer such skill, ability and experience – and they’re going to be valued employees for our dealer partners,” said Ken Barrett, GM’s global chief diversity officer.
The program aims to provide soldiers with experiential training and technical knowledge and help them develop skills in self-management and problem-solving as they prepare to take civilian careers, Raytheon said.
It is part of a long-term partnership between the Army and the two companies and follows a curriculum that Raytheon Professional Services developed for GM.
Raytheon added that soldiers will also be given access to GM’s online employment portal to match skillsets with potential careers.
Lynn Dugle, president of Raytheon’s intelligence, information and services segment, said that along with Barrett that many of their respective companies’ workforce are military veterans.
