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How Military Veterans Can Help Fill Facilities Job Openings

Facility managers at institutional and commercial facilities are struggling to find qualified front-line technicians to fill spots for their staff. 

Like with many industries, the hiring crunch has prompted managers to consider several alternatives to the traditional job pool, including technical schools, reaching out to high school students, and veterans who have transitioned out of the military and are looking to enter the civilian job force. 

In this article, we speak with Marine veteran Jay Niblick, co-founder and chief strategy officer at an online hiring platform, Wizehire, about the benefits of hiring veterans for open positions. 

FacilitiesNet: In the current work atmosphere of industries of all kinds looking for quality candidates to fill positions, how has the role of recruiting veterans to positions evolved?  

Niblick: Overall, the role of recruiting military veterans to fill open positions has evolved to be more targeted, supportive, and inclusive of the unique skills and experiences that veterans bring to the workforce. In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the value that military veterans bring to the civilian workforce. As a result, the role of recruiting military veterans to fill open positions has evolved in several ways: 

FacilitiesNet: What kind of qualities do military veterans possess that make them ideal candidates to fill technician positions on facility crews and then ascend to leadership positions? 

Niblick: Military veterans possess several valuable qualities that make them ideal candidates to fill technician positions and ultimately ascend to leadership positions in the industry. 

One of the key qualities of military veterans is their strong work ethic and dedication to their tasks. They are known for being willing to work long hours and take on difficult assignments to get the job done. Veterans are also trained to work effectively in teams and often have leadership experience from their time in the military. They know how to motivate and inspire others to achieve a common goal, often in the face of significant adversity. 

Additionally, veterans are often trained to think critically and creatively to solve complex problems. They have experience working in high-pressure environments and are able to remain calm and focused in challenging situations. 

Finally, military training emphasizes attention to detail and following standard operating procedures, which is a valuable quality in the facilities management industry where safety and compliance are critical. Many veterans have technical skills that are directly applicable to the facilities management industry, such as experience with electrical systems, software and technology or other mechanical systems. 

FacilitiesNet: What kind of advice would you give to facility managers looking to access veterans as a source for candidates?  

Niblick: In general, I would say the advice is very similar to any successful recruiting campaign, with a few nuanced additions:  

Dave Lubach is the executive editor for the facilities market.