America’s veterans have dedicated their lives to serving our nation, and international automakers are proud to serve them in return. For decades, Autos Drive America member companies have demonstrated their commitment to veterans—not just with words but with meaningful action. From hiring veterans for high-skilled manufacturing roles to investing in veteran-specific workforce development programs and partnering with nonprofit organizations, international automakers are steadfast in their mission to support military veterans, active-duty service members, and their families.
Several of our members partner with organizations to help address the unique challenges veterans face as they transition back into civilian life. Last year, Subaru presented Hope For The Warriors with a $50,000 donation to provide critical resources for veterans and their families. Similarly, Honda Manufacturing of Indiana works with Conexus Indiana to link local businesses seeking employees with talented veterans. Meanwhile, Mazda is a member company of the Veteran Jobs Mission, a coalition of more than 300 companies dedicated to hiring military veterans and their spouses. Transitioning to civilian life can be one of the most challenging journeys veterans face, and our members and the programs they support play a vital role in helping veterans navigate that process and build rewarding careers.
Our member companies also invest heavily in workforce development programs designed for veterans, who exit military service with a wealth of valuable knowledge and skills. In November, BMW launched its Veteran Acceleration Program (VAP), a one-year initiative that offers veterans both training and hands-on experience while working full-time at BMW Manufacturing Co., LLC. Mercedes-Benz provides GI Bill-eligible veterans with academic and on-the-job training to prepare them for thriving careers in dealerships, while Kia’s Veterans Technician Apprenticeship Program (Kia VTAP) connects veterans with full-time employment opportunities at Kia retailers nationwide. These initiatives reflect our members’ commitment to helping veterans build successful careers in automotive manufacturing and beyond.
Creating supportive workplaces is another way international automakers go the extra mile for veterans. Last year, Hyundai earned recognition as a Military Friendly Employer by MilitaryFriendly.com and was included on the 2023 Military Times Best for Vets employer list. Nissan has a Veteran’s Business Synergy Team that provides networking and professional development sessions and discusses how to better engage the servicemember community inside and outside Nissan. Volkswagen Chattanooga prioritizes hiring veterans as part of its diversity efforts and provides ongoing support to veterans once they join the team. By fostering a workplace culture that values veterans’ experiences and perspectives, international automakers empower them to succeed both on and off the job.
But the support doesn’t stop within our members’ facilities. Toyota has partnered with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Hiring Our Heroes program for nearly a decade, connecting veterans to job opportunities across multiple industries. Additionally, Volvo participates each year in the United Way of Caring initiative to paint homes, landscape, clean, and make repairs for vulnerable communities, including veterans. Through these programs and partnerships, international automakers are uplifting veterans and their families, demonstrating their gratitude for their service.
While we honored Veterans Day earlier this month, our member companies demonstrate their commitment to our country’s servicemen and women every day of the year. By hiring veterans, investing in their growth, and providing them with the tools to thrive across industries, international automakers are working to ensure the contributions of veterans and their families do not go unrecognized.
