#United States #Veterans #Parsippany #SkillBridge #GAF

GAF Expands SkillBridge Partnership with New Hands-On Manufacturing Training for Transitioning Service Members

In a significant move to support veterans transitioning to civilian life, GAF, the largest roofing and waterproofing manufacturer in North America, has announced an expansion of its SkillBridge program. This initiative will provide eligible service members with a complimentary six-month training experience in manufacturing, designed to prepare them for technical roles in the industry.

The adjustment comes amid a looming labor shortage in the manufacturing sector, which, according to a report from Deloitte and The Manufacturing Institute, may require filling approximately 3.8 million positions by 2033. This clearly highlights the critical need for skilled labor, with many roles, particularly in industrial maintenance, expected to face acute shortages.

The new manufacturing training program allows participants to gain valuable experience directly on the shop floor at various GAF facilities located in Myerstown, Pennsylvania; Michigan City, Indiana; Mount Vernon, Indiana; Newton, Kansas; and Ennis, Texas. This hands-on training is focused on teaching the necessary equipment operations, maintenance processes, and safety and quality standards essential for success in the manufacturing industry.

John Barkhouse, CEO and President of GAF, emphasized the inherent qualities that service members bring to the workforce. He stated, "Service members possess technical knowledge and strong problem-solving abilities, both of which are crucial in today’s manufacturing environment. This program aims to apply these skills in a practical setting, facilitating a smoother transition for military personnel into civilian jobs."

The SkillBridge program is not entirely new to GAF; the company had previously launched the GAF Roofing Academy, which received accreditation from the SkillBridge initiative. Since its inception in 2020, this educational program has successfully assisted hundreds of service-affiliated individuals in gaining employment in the roofing trade, demonstrating GAF's commitment to developing a skilled workforce while easing the transition for veterans.

Moreover, GAF's efforts extend beyond manufacturing education. The company has forged partnerships with organizations such as the Army Career Skills Program, NextOp, and Hiring Our Heroes, among others, to provide various training and job opportunities for service members nationwide. This collaborative approach further solidifies GAF’s mission to support military personnel in their career journeys.

GAF also runs additional programs like the GAF Community Contractor Program, which allows certified contractors to assist veterans and community heroes in need of roof repairs through donated materials and labor. Moreover, the Roofs for Troops initiative provides rebates for military personnel who install GAF roofing systems, further solidifying the company’s commitment to giving back to the military community.

For those interested in participating in the new manufacturing training program, GAF provides comprehensive details, including eligibility requirements and training locations, available on their official website: www.GAF.com/SkillBridge. This initiative is set to make a lasting impact, not only on the lives of veterans but also on the future of American manufacturing.

In summary, GAF's efforts to enhance its SkillBridge partnership offer a valuable opportunity for transitioning service members to gain essential skills in manufacturing. This training program is poised to not only prepare veterans for career success but also to mitigate the skills gap in the manufacturing sector, thus playing a crucial role in strengthening the American workforce and economy.