How GM’s Shifting Gears Program Helps Veterans Transition Into Automotive Careers

Transforming Military Skills into Automotive Careers

Transitioning from military service to civilian life can be daunting, with only 25% of U.S. veterans securing a job before their discharge. Recognizing this challenge, General Motors (GM) partnered with the U.S. Army to launch the Shifting Gears Automotive Technical Training Program. This initiative aims to equip service members with crucial technical skills and professional development support necessary for a successful career in the automotive industry.

GM’s Commitment to Veterans

Celebrating its nearly 1000th graduate, the Shifting Gears program provides free access to a 12-week intensive training course for service members. This course, operated by V2X, combines classroom learning with practical shop experience. Graduates emerge as qualified entry-level technicians ready to join GM dealerships, addressing a significant technician shortage, whereby the U.S. automotive industry is short by approximately 37,000 trained professionals yearly.

Empowering Stories from Graduates

One remarkable graduate is First Sergeant Steve Bailey, initially drawn to the program due to his love for automobiles. Now the Training Manager for Shifting Gears, Bailey elaborates on the program's focus not just on immediate job placement but also on fostering personal growth during the transition from military to civilian life. His perspective underscores the initiative's dual focus: equipping veterans with technical skills and supporting their emotional and professional adjustment.

Another inspiring story comes from Blake True, a graduate who, after completing the program in 2016, has not only thrived in the mechanics world but is now actively involved in mentoring incoming graduates at his dealership in Texas. His transition from military life to a successful automotive career highlights the transformative potential of such supportive programs.

Addressing the Skills Gap in the Automotive Industry

The impact of the Shifting Gears program extends to solving the skills gap in the automotive sector. With many veterans facing hurdles in finding employment, initiatives like this connect them with dealerships eager to hire qualified technicians. Veterans, with their ability to work effectively in teams and their strong work ethic, seamlessly fit into the competitive automotive environment.

Besides hands-on training, the program offers extensive support in personal development, helping veterans cultivate confidence and adaptability in their new roles. This holistic approach not only prepares them for their jobs but also helps them navigate the complexities of civilian life.

Broader Industry Initiatives by GM

GM’s commitment to veterans is evident beyond the Shifting Gears program. Approximately 4,200 veterans are employed by GM, reflecting the company's dedication to integrating service members into its workforce. Additionally, GM supports various initiatives, including exclusive discounts for veterans and partnerships aimed at empowering veterans through athletic events.

These efforts create a pathway for veterans to merge their military experience with promising automotive careers, reinforcing GM's role as a leader in workforce development within the sector.

The Future of Workforce Development

As the automotive industry continues to evolve, the importance of initiatives like Shifting Gears will only grow. By nurturing a talented pool of technicians with a military background, GM not only bridges the current workforce gap but also develops a culture of mentorship and support within the industry. Moreover, these programs set a precedent for other companies, highlighting the valuable contributions military veterans can bring to civilian fields.

For automotive repair shop owners, partnering with programs like Shifting Gears can yield a dedicated workforce, infused with discipline and teamwork skills honed in the military. By investing in these potential technicians, shop owners can bolster their operational capabilities while also giving back to those who have served.

Empowering Veterans to Succeed

The Shifting Gears program exemplifies how automotive repair shops can benefit from the unique skills and dedication of military veterans. By offering this training, GM proves that the path from military uniform to technician coveralls can be a smooth transition, full of opportunities.