ROCHESTER, N.Y. — A program at Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) that helps veterans find jobs in electronics manufacturing is expanding due to a grant from New York State.
Dr. Martin Anselm, one of the RIT professors leading the program, explained the initiative began six years ago to train veterans in assembling electronic circuit boards. “We were able to train 20 veterans in a single year,” Anselm said. The program aims to provide underemployed or unemployed veterans with valuable skills.
Anselm said there is a significant need for technicians nationwide. “For every engineer that a company would hire, they often need to hire five, ten technicians,” he said.
The program recently received a $700,000 state grant, which would give participants a stipend, access to a job fair, and transportation if needed. Program co-lead and business professor Malar Hirudayaraj said the program also focuses on reintegrating veterans into the civilian workforce over four weeks.
“So they have three weeks of technical training, and there is one week of civilian workplace prep,” Hirudayaraj said. “That’s where I bring my expertise.”
Hirudayaraj emphasized the importance of supporting veterans. “Veteran unemployment is a huge issue in this country,” she said. “We need to provide them opportunities when they come back.”
The program hopes to train 60 veterans over the next two years. It boasts an 80% job placement record.
Veterans interested in the program can inquire at the Veterans Outreach Center of Rochester.
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