Membership Meeting – Built Different: The Strategic Edge of Hiring Military-Trained Talent

Could your next top employee be a veteran, and the secret weapon your company needs? Veterans bring unmatched leadership, adaptability, and strong communication skills—exactly what’s critical for roles like heavy equipment operators, project managers, safety managers, and construction foremen. This presentation offers an overview of the benefits of hiring the modern veteran, debunks common myths, highlights key talent sources, and outlines how to build an effective veteran talent strategy – equipping companies to turn knowledge into action and gain a competitive edge.

Why does this matter? According to the Associated Builders and Contractors, the construction industry must attract an estimated 439,000 new workers in 2025 to meet rising demand. This labor shortage delays projects, raises costs, and heightens risks – placing strain on contractors and clients. Veterans offer proven teamwork, technical expertise, and reliability that improve employee retention and jobsite performance, giving companies a distinct advantage amid fierce market pressures.

Lt. Col. (Ret.) Kathy Lowrey Gallowitz is an award-winning businesswoman, former military officer, author of “Beyond Thank You for Your Service,” and founder of Vanguard Veteran, LLC. With over 40 years of combined military leadership and proven civilian success, she coaches organizations to reduce veteran turnover and build “Veteran-Ready” workplaces through strategic talent initiatives. Kathy’s engaging storytelling and practical strategies inspire leaders to become true Veteran Champions.

To learn more about Vanguard Veteran and other speech topics, contact Kathy at Kathy@VanguardVeteran.com or 270-945-7286

Key Outcomes:

• Discover how modern veterans outperform non-veterans
• Debunk stigmas and stereotypes limiting veteran potential
• Uncover veteran talent pipeline sources
• Learn essential steps to build a comprehensive veteran talent strategy