GE Aerospace Invests $500,000 in NC Veteran Training Programs
This initiative partners with businesses to equip veterans with the skills needed for advanced manufacturing jobs as they transition back to civilian work.
The GE Aerospace Foundation committed $500,000 to North Carolina's Heroes MAKE America Program last month. This initiative partners with businesses to equip veterans with the skills needed for advanced manufacturing jobs as they transition back to civilian work.
Governor Josh Stein revealed the investment in October. He mentioned it again during Veterans Day celebrations on Nov. 11 in Pitt County. More than 600,000 veterans live in the state, and this announcement came as part of a wider effort to support them.
"As we continue to advance the future of flight, it is critical that we invest in developing talent to help us build it and bring it to life," said Christian Meisner, GE Aerospace Chief Human Resources Officer and GE Aerospace Foundation Chair. "We look forward to working alongside our partners to reinforce North Carolina’s long-standing leadership as the first in flight and keystone of the aviation manufacturing industry."
"Veterans sacrificed so much to protect us. We owe them not just gratitude but care and support when they come home," Stein said, according to the North Carolina Office of the Governor website. "On this Veterans Day, let us remember their sacrifices and recommit ourselves to serving the more than 600,000 veterans who call North Carolina home."
North Carolina Department of Military and Veterans Affairs Secretary Jocelyn Mallette joined Stein at the ceremony, and Greenville Mayor PJ Connelly also attended.
"Our veterans have selflessly put our lives before theirs, and we must ensure their sacrifices are honored by giving them the tools and resources for their next mission in life," Mallette told the gathering, according to the North Carolina Office of the Governor website.
The Heroes MAKE America Program funding represents just one piece of a larger effort. State officials want to help those who served. On Nov. 10, Stein and the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services announced extended hours for NCServes and the launch of AskMeNC — both initiatives aim to expand access to care for veterans and their families.
The Department of Commerce has 50 NCWorks Veterans Services professionals. They connect former service members with job opportunities and training. All staff in this program are veterans themselves, and many focus on working with businesses interested in hiring those who served.
The state offers employment preference for eligible veterans. Current and former North Carolina National Guard Service members also receive this benefit for state positions. Senate Bill 118 makes it easier for military families to enroll their children in school and renew drivers' licenses remotely, while House Bill 373 provides tuition discounts for military students attending the University of North Carolina.
The Department of Military and Veteran Affairs created a Resource Guide for 2024/2025. It brings together resources, centers and organizations to serve military and veteran families.
