Editor’s note: Originally posted in 2022, this article is being republished in honor of the holiday.
This Veterans Day, we here at Facilities Management Advisor would like to salute all those who have fought to protect our country. Facilities managers should consider hiring veterans who are either transitioning from military life to civilian life or perhaps have been civilians for a while. It might be obvious that veterans who have experience in the design, building, maintenance, and improvement of military infrastructure would be great candidates in the facilities management field. Veterans also already went through extensive background checks, which would be helpful in the facilities field.
However, here are five key reasons facilities managers should consider hiring any veteran:
1. Teamwork
In every branch of the U.S. military, veterans either had a partner or were part of a crew, squad, or team in which they cooperated to get their missions accomplished safely, no matter what issues arose. They believe in the principle of service before self. Likewise, in facilities management, personnel should work together so that everyone is on the same page, have a shared sense of responsibility, and help each other get the job done.
2. Core Values
Veterans have a strong code of ethics and core values such as commitment, integrity, accountability, and loyalty. Likewise, facilities personnel should be dedicated to doing their jobs honestly, morally, and ethically.
3. Cross-Functional Skills
Veterans have been trained in several disciplines including learning science, technology, and how to work in a variety of environments, so they have learned a variety of skills. Likewise in facilities, workers should know how to do a variety of tasks, including many that may utilize computer skills.
4. Discipline & Compliance
Veterans were taught the importance of obeying orders from superiors or there would be severe penalties. They know how to follow the rules. Likewise, facilities personnel should follow the direction of their leaders and adhere to applicable local, state, and federal laws in doing their jobs. Failure to follow those directives can also lead to serious consequences for facilities personnel.
5. Ability to Handle Stressful Situations
In the military, veterans were taught how to handle stress by determining what tasks are most important, how to accomplish missions, and meet their daily schedules. Likewise, facilities personnel must prioritize their work, achieve their goals, and not crack under pressure even on the most stressful days.
Facilities managers should understand just how valuable veterans can be as a member of their teams. The education and experiences military personnel gained from serving their country can be quite valuable for facilities managers. To learn more about why veterans make good employees, please visit the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs website here.
Want to hear from a former military member who successfully transitioned to the FM space and advocates for hiring vets? Check out this “Faces of Facilities” profile here.