Michigan Gas Boot Camp offers job training and internships for veterans
In a new collaborative program partnering Consumers Energy, Power for America and the Michigan National Guard, military veterans will have the opportunity to receive training for natural gas jobs, bolstering a workforce that is expected to see nearly 50 percent retirement rates in the next few years.
The Michigan Gas Boot Camp program will offer four weeks of hands-on training followed by 90-day internships for veterans in jobs including gas line construction and meter reading.
“Veterans bring discipline and skills that are valuable to our customers and company,” Consumers Energy’s Senior Vice President of Energy Resources Dan Malone said. “This partnership is enhancing our workforce and will allow us to successfully cross the finish line together with those who served.”
The first Michigan Gas Boot Camp received more than 200 applications, selecting 40 veterans to enroll in the inaugural program.
“The Michigan National Guard is proud to support this program and looks forward to supporting future classes. This program highlights the power of partnerships. Everyone wins: veterans, families, Consumers Energy, the Michigan National Guard, Power for America and the State of Michigan,” Michigan National Guard Brig. Gen. Michael A. Stone said.
Graduates of the boot camp receive employment as a part of the Enhanced Infrastructure Replacement Program, which focuses on the replacement and installation of new gas pipelines within Consumers Energy’s service territory.
