U.S. wireless carriers AT&T and T-Mobile on Thursday boosted their commitments to hire military veterans as part of the White House’s Joining Forces initiative.
AT&T said it will double its military hiring goal, with plans to hire a total of 20,000 veterans by 2020. The company has already hired 10,000 veterans since 2013.
“Military experience is great preparation for a successful career at AT&T,” CEO Randall Stephenson said. “Veterans’ leadership, integrity and commitment to service make them outstanding employees.”
AT&T said it provides both training and support for the veterans it hires. Available resources include the carrier’s Veteran Employee Resource Group, Nanodegree program, “Next Duty Station” Program and Support for Military Spouses group.
Similarly, T-Mobile on Thursday reaffirmed its pledge to hire 5,000 military veterans and family members over the next five years.
T-Mobile CMO Andrew Sherrard said the Un-carrier is committed to hiring service members because “veterans have the unique skillset we need to continue to turn this industry on its head.”
Launched in 2011 by First Lady Michelle Obama and Jill Biden, the Joining Forces campaign calls on Americans to provide employment, education and wellness support for U.S. veterans and their families.
Since the program’s launch, U.S. businesses have hired and trained more than half a million veterans and military spouses.
