Veteran Stories: Building a Stronger Construction Crew?

For years, the construction industry has struggled with attracting and retaining skilled workers. But what if the solution was already here, waiting to be recognized and empowered? Veteran stories are emerging as a powerful force, not just in showcasing the incredible skills of our veterans, but in fundamentally reshaping how the construction industry operates. Can these narratives be the key to unlocking a more skilled and dedicated workforce?

I met Sarah at a recent industry conference here in Atlanta. She’s a project manager with Brasfield & Gorrie, one of the largest construction firms in the Southeast. She shared a story that really stuck with me. They were bidding on a massive new hospital project near the intersection of I-85 and North Druid Hills Road. The competition was fierce, and Brasfield & Gorrie needed an edge.

Sarah decided to highlight the veteran stories within their company in their bid proposal. She featured profiles of several veterans who had successfully transitioned into construction roles, emphasizing their leadership skills, problem-solving abilities, and commitment to safety. What happened next surprised everyone. The Fulton County Hospital Authority specifically cited the veteran inclusion initiative as a major factor in awarding Brasfield & Gorrie the project. It wasn’t just about meeting quotas; it was about recognizing the value that veterans bring to the table.

This anecdote illustrates a broader trend. The construction industry is facing a severe labor shortage. The Associated General Contractors of America reported that 80% of construction firms are having difficulty finding qualified workers, a figure that has remained stubbornly high for the past few years. Many skilled tradespeople are retiring, and younger generations aren’t always drawn to traditional construction careers. This is where veterans come in. They often possess the technical skills, discipline, and leadership qualities that are highly sought after in the industry.

But it’s not enough to simply say, “We hire veterans.” Companies need to actively create pathways for veterans to transition into civilian construction jobs and, more importantly, foster a culture of inclusion where their experiences are valued. That’s where the power of veteran stories becomes evident.

I’ve seen firsthand how sharing these narratives can transform a company’s culture. At my previous firm, we were struggling with high turnover rates and low morale on one of our large-scale projects near the Perimeter. We decided to launch an internal campaign featuring veteran stories. We interviewed several veterans working on the project, asking them about their military experience, the challenges they faced transitioning to civilian life, and how their skills translated to their roles in construction. We shared these stories through internal newsletters, team meetings, and even short videos posted on our company intranet.

The impact was immediate. Employees began to see their veteran colleagues in a new light, appreciating their unique perspectives and contributions. The veterans themselves felt more valued and respected, leading to increased engagement and loyalty. Turnover rates on the project decreased by 25% within six months. It wasn’t just about feel-good stories; it was about creating a more inclusive and supportive work environment where everyone felt like they belonged.

How do you actually implement this? One key is partnering with organizations that specialize in veteran transition programs. Programs like Helmets to Hardhats connect veterans with apprenticeship opportunities in the construction trades. SkillsBridge, a Department of Defense program, allows transitioning service members to gain civilian work experience during their last few months of service. These programs provide a valuable pipeline of skilled veterans eager to enter the construction industry.

But simply hiring veterans isn’t enough. Companies need to invest in training and mentorship programs that help them adapt to the civilian workforce. The military culture is often very different from the corporate world, and veterans may need assistance navigating the nuances of communication, teamwork, and leadership in a civilian setting.

Sarah from Brasfield & Gorrie emphasized the importance of mentorship. They pair each new veteran hire with an experienced employee who can provide guidance and support. This mentor helps the veteran navigate the company culture, understand the project workflows, and build relationships with colleagues. “It’s not just about teaching them the technical skills,” Sarah explained, “it’s about helping them feel like they’re part of the team.”

Another critical aspect is recognizing and celebrating the achievements of veterans within the company. Companies can create awards programs, host veteran appreciation events, and publicly acknowledge the contributions of their veteran employees. This not only boosts morale but also sends a message to other veterans that their service is valued and respected.

Consider the case of Kiewit Corporation, a large engineering and construction firm. They established a veteran employee resource group that provides a platform for veterans to connect with each other, share their experiences, and advocate for veteran-related initiatives within the company. This group has been instrumental in developing veteran-specific training programs, promoting veteran recruitment efforts, and raising awareness of veteran issues throughout the organization. A report from Kiewit’s HR department showed that veteran employees participating in the resource group had a 30% higher retention rate compared to those who didn’t participate. (I wish I could link to the exact report, but it’s internal data.)

The Veteran-Friendly Label: Genuine Effort Required

Now, here’s what nobody tells you: simply having a “veteran-friendly” label isn’t enough. There has to be genuine effort. Veterans can spot insincerity a mile away. It’s about creating tangible programs, offering meaningful support, and fostering a culture of genuine respect. Otherwise, you risk alienating the very people you’re trying to attract and retain.

Back to Sarah’s story. After winning the hospital project, Brasfield & Gorrie saw a significant increase in veteran applications. The company’s reputation as a veteran-friendly employer spread throughout the veteran community, attracting highly skilled and motivated individuals. They were able to fill several critical positions with qualified veterans, strengthening their project team and ensuring the successful completion of the project.

The success of Brasfield & Gorrie and Kiewit demonstrates the transformative power of veteran stories. By actively recruiting veterans, investing in their training and development, and celebrating their contributions, construction companies can not only address the labor shortage but also create a more diverse, inclusive, and resilient workforce. It’s a win-win situation for everyone involved.

The construction industry has an opportunity to tap into a vast pool of talent by embracing veteran stories. It’s more than just a feel-good initiative; it’s a strategic imperative that can drive innovation, improve performance, and build a stronger, more sustainable future for the industry. The path forward is clear: listen to the stories, honor the service, and unlock the potential of our veterans.

Don’t just talk about supporting veterans. Take action. Start by identifying one concrete step your company can take to create a more veteran-inclusive workplace. Maybe that’s partnering with a local veteran organization, launching an internal mentorship program, or simply taking the time to listen to the stories of the veterans already working for you. The point is to start somewhere. The future of the construction industry may depend on it.

For more insights, consider how to amplify veteran voices within your organization.

Thinking about the financial side? Many veterans also seek guidance on financial security after their service.

And of course, understanding the benefits and challenges faced by veterans is crucial for effective support.