First ‘Shifting Gears' Technician Training Class Graduates

October 28, 2014 by GM

Transitioning soldiers equipped to become GM automotive technicians

◾Unique training provided on-base at Fort Hood; next class underway

◾12-week course includes classroom, online and hands-on training

◾Participants also receive career counseling, job placement services

FORT HOOD, Texas — The U.S. Army, General Motors (NYSE: GM) and Raytheon Company (NYSE: RTN) hosted a graduation ceremony Tuesday for the first Shifting Gears: Automotive Technician Training Program class.

Created from a multi-year partnership between the two companies and the Army, the 12-week, on-base program empowers transitioning soldiers with the skills required to secure careers as service technicians nationwide at GM dealerships nationwide.

Twenty-three soldiers received their certification as GM technicians during the ceremony. Shifting Gears equips soldiers with technical expertise and experiential training, building on core Army disciplines to provide students with invaluable self-management and problem-solving skills.

Shifting Gears is part of the Army's Soldier for Life support program, helping soldiers reintegrate into their communities after leaving the Army. Upon successful course completion and program graduation, veterans receive career counseling, job-placement recommendations and employment assistance from Army Soldier for Life centers, and access to available GM technician employment opportunities through GM's authorized dealer network.

'GM has supported our nation's military for more than 100 years. Along with our thousands of employees who have served in the military, we're eager to provide opportunity and advocate for these transitioning soldiers,' said GM Global Chief Diversity Officer Ken Barrett. 'They offer such skill, ability and experience – and they're going to be valued employees for our dealer partners.'

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About GM Military Support

With thousands of military veteran employees, General Motors' support for the United States armed forces spans generations. Today, Chevrolet assists Cell Phones for Soldiers, Achilles Freedom Team of Wounded Veterans, a variety of employment and grassroots initiatives, and is the Official Vehicle of the Army-Navy game. The GM Military Discount program offers discounts on most Chevrolet, Buick and GMC vehicles for active duty, reserves, retirees, veterans (within one year of separation) and spouses of the U.S. Air Force, Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard and National Guard. GM proudly participates in the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation's Hiring Our Heroes initiative aimed at finding meaningful employment for veterans transitioning to civilian life.