In a world where both workforce gaps and talent potential exist side by side, Rockwell Automation is providing a blueprint for how to bridge the divide—not just with policy or pledges, but with practical, purposeful action. Their strategy? Pair returning military veterans with technical roles in manufacturing through a bold combination of skills-based hiring and lifelong learning.
As industries scramble to future-proof their operations amid the Fourth Industrial Revolution, Rockwell isn’t just preparing their workforce—they’re expanding what’s possible for entire communities, businesses, and veterans seeking purpose beyond the uniform.
A Hidden Resource, Finally Recognized
Tens of thousands of skilled men and women transition out of the armed forces every year. They’re disciplined, tech-savvy, safety-conscious, and team-oriented. But for too long, these qualities have been underutilized in the private sector, particularly in manufacturing—a field that often struggles to recruit young, diverse talent.
Recognizing this untapped potential, Rockwell Automation, in partnership with ManpowerGroup, launched the Academy of Advanced Manufacturing (AAM) in 2017. This visionary program offers returning service members a real path to prosperous, purpose-driven civilian careers.
And the results are speaking louder than ever in 2025.
Inside the Academy: A Blueprint for Reintegration and Reskilling
At the heart of AAM’s success is a 12-week immersive training experience that blends classroom instruction with hands-on lab work in cutting-edge technologies—exactly the kind of learning environment suited to military veterans accustomed to high-stakes training.
Graduates emerge with skills tailored to in-demand manufacturing roles such as:
- Automation/Controls Technicians
- Electrical Technicians
- Field Service Technicians
What happens next is even more transformative. Upon completing the program, each veteran receives, on average, two job offers. The most recent cohort in 2024 achieved a 91% graduation rate, and 86% of participants secured job placements—powerful testimony to the program's design and impact.
Data That Tells a Story of Impact
2024 marked a pivotal year with the first longitudinal study of AAM graduates. The findings are not only encouraging—they’re defining a new benchmark for workforce integration strategies:
- 11% growth in compensation among AAM graduates
- 93% of graduates remain in the manufacturing industry
- 85% of graduates are satisfied with the program, and
- 83% are satisfied with their job placements
Even more impressive? 25% of companies who hired AAM grads in 2024 were first-time participants, proving that the model is gaining traction and expanding its reach.
And 45% of employers are now repeat partners, having hired from multiple AAM cohorts—suggesting that this isn't just a talent solution; it's a business advantage.
Beyond Job Placement: A New Vision for Economic Inclusion
“Organizations are asking to participate because we’re helping translate useful military skills to high-demand roles,” says Phil Bush, AAM’s business development manager. “It’s a win for everyone.”
Indeed, the benefits radiate outward:
- 🇺🇸 Veterans gain more than a job—they gain identity and stability in a new chapter of life.
- Manufacturers gain a dependable pipeline of trained, disciplined talent in an industry where skilled labor is in short supply.
- Communities gain economic strength, as veterans settle into well-paying jobs and contribute to local growth.
Rockwell Automation has shown that we don't need to choose between innovation and inclusion. We can have both—when we reimagine workforce development through a values-based, skills-centered lens.
Why This Matters in 2025—and Beyond
As automation and AI continue to reshape labor markets, companies that invest in human adaptability will be the ones that thrive. Rockwell's AAM program offers a sustainable solution to the manufacturing skills gap, but it also poses a critical question for every business leader:
Are you only hiring for resumes—or are you hiring for readiness, resilience, and real-world skills?
This isn't just about manufacturing jobs. It’s about rethinking who we consider "qualified," recognizing potential in places we’ve historically overlooked, and understanding that the future of work is not just about technology—it’s about people.
Veterans are mission-driven, highly trained professionals. They’ve served their country. Now, with the right support, they’re ready to serve industry, innovation, and the economy.
A Model Worth Replicating
As a platform dedicated to climate and social progress, AmazingHour.com applauds Rockwell Automation for setting a high bar in corporate responsibility. Their AAM initiative doesn’t just meet a labor need; it reaffirms a commitment to dignity, equity, and long-term value creation.
In a time of sweeping global change, this kind of leadership is essential. Rockwell isn’t just closing the skills gap—they’re closing the opportunity gap, too.
Let this serve as a rallying cry for industries everywhere: Hire for potential, train for excellence, and honor those who’ve already served by giving them new ways to lead.
To learn more about the Academy of Advanced Manufacturing or explore how your organization can get involved, visit RockwellAutomation.com.
For more thought leadership on inclusive sustainability and workforce innovation, stay in touch because when people rise, progress follows.
Table of Contents
Thank you for reading!
