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Empowering Veterans in the Restaurant Industry

As America honors its veterans this Veterans Day, the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF) shines a light on the vital contributions of veterans within the restaurant sector. Acknowledging that restaurants accommodate more than 15.7 million employees in over 70 different roles, the foundation recognizes the unique opportunity veterans hold to excel in this diverse field.

Opening Doors for Veterans

Michelle Korsmo, President and CEO of NRAEF, expressed profound gratitude towards veterans for their service, emphasizing the unique skills they bring to the workforce. "America's veterans bring unparalleled character and commitment to every role they take on," she stated. The foundation aims to facilitate impactful career paths for veterans, aligning their military experiences with the demands of the restaurant industry.

Comprehensive Training and Development Initiatives

The NRAEF is dedicated to equipping military members with industry-specific skills through several innovative programs:

• - In-Service Training: Initiatives like the Advanced Culinary Training Program (ACTP) and the Advanced Military Professional Educational Development (AMPED) expose service members to a variety of restaurant careers.
• - SkillBridge Program: In partnership with the U.S. Department of Defense, this program allows service members to engage in industry training and apprenticeships during their final 180 days of military service, ensuring a smoother transition into civilian roles.
• - Apprenticeship Opportunities: Veterans can participate in the Restaurant Management Apprenticeship Program which harnesses the benefits provided under the Veteran Apprenticeship and Labor Opportunity Reform (VALOR) Act. This program facilitates on-the-job training while allowing veterans to utilize their Post 9/11 GI Bill benefits.
• - Scholarships and Grants: Collaborating with Hormel Foods, the foundation offers scholarships to individuals with military backgrounds who pursue culinary arts or foodservice management programs, easing the financial burden of education.

Recognition of Excellence

To further honor service members, the NRAEF presents Military Foodservice Awards, recognizing military units for excellence in various criteria including food quality and management effectiveness. These awards serve not only to acknowledge high standards but also to promote best practices within the industry.

A Long-Term Commitment

For over seventy years, the NRAEF has taken strides to support America's Armed Forces in transitioning to rewarding careers in the restaurant sector. This year alone, the foundation trained 205 active-duty service members in foodservice roles, making significant headway in bridging the gap between military and civilian job markets.

Looking Ahead

As the NRAEF continues its mission to attract, empower, and advance today’s and tomorrow’s workforce, its programs stand as a vital resource for veterans seeking fulfilling careers in the restaurant sector. With a commitment to fostering leadership skills and providing unparalleled training, the foundation is not only shaping the future of the industry but also ensuring a brighter pathway for those who have served the nation.

Join in on the celebration of our veterans this Veterans Day and learn more about these initiatives at ChooseRestaurants.org/Military.