For military veterans transitioning to a civilian job, finding the right employer is crucial.
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“While it may seem easy, reintegrating into the civilian population is very difficult for most veterans,” explained David Wilson, a production supervisor at ClarkDietrich’s Dallas plant. Wilson served six-and-a-half years in the United States Army as a combat engineer, including a 13-month deployment in Afghanistan. “Finding an organization willing to support me through that transition was a major part of my thought process during my job search.
ClarkDietrich has long been a military-friendly employer, not just employing them, but celebrating those who have served our nation.
“ClarkDietrich doesn’t hide their appreciation and support for veterans,” said Ben Jinkins, an eight-year United States Marine Corps veteran who now works as a structural framing operator at the Dallas plant. “It’s a good company that appreciates our service.”
David Wilson, a US Army veteran who now works
as a production supervisor at ClarkDietrich
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As a diesel mechanic in the Marines, Jinkins grew an affinity for working in a hands-on environment. It’s this same type of work that makes him enjoy coming to his job each day at ClarkDietrich.
“Probably the biggest factor I enjoy about working here is that it is a hands-on, steady type of job,” he said.
For Wilson, it’s the people.
“There are many things I love about ClarkDietrich, but the associates are number one on the list, including the leadership team,” Wilson said. “You can walk through any department, greet someone, and before you know it, you have built a friendship that extends beyond the workplace. I love that ClarkDietrich truly takes care of everyone. I have never been part of a company that values its associates more than ClarkDietrich does.”
Wilson was drawn to the military because he knew he needed a major change as he was transitioning into adulthood.
Ben Jenkins, a US Marine veteran who now works
as a structural framing operator at ClarkDietrich
“I needed more discipline, and I wanted to make a difference,” he said. “I knew I could handle whatever challenges came my way, and I wanted to be part of the 1% responsible for ensuring Americans can live their lives safely.”
His time in the Army taught him how to be present and available, and it instilled in him strong time management and project management skills. It’s these attributes that make him the leader he is today.
“I take pride in being a leader my team can depend on,” he said. “More companies should hire veterans. The skills and experience we develop translate well to any organization.”
It’s these qualities that ClarkDietrich sees in military veterans, and why the company proactively welcomes them onto the team. ClarkDietrich currently employs 79 military veterans.
“ClarkDietrich has supported me by trusting me and simply giving me an opportunity. My employment here is like a badge of honor,” Wilson said. “Whether it is training opportunities, traveling to other plants, or participating in community service events, ClarkDietrich provides me with unwavering support on a daily basis. If you are looking for the team environment the military is known for, if you want to learn, advance, and make a difference, this is where you need to be.”