Chamber teams up with workforce partners and Arconic to give veterans a look at manufacturing careers

Eleven veterans got a behind-the-scenes look at Arconic Davenport Works on Wednesday, May 28, during the Chamber's first-ever Veterans Tour in partnership with Arconic, Black Hawk College, Illinois Department of Employment Security and IowaWorks. From learning about career opportunities and pay scales to seeing the diversity on the shop floor, participants left with a new perspective on modern manufacturing.

“It was great to showcase our facility and connect with veterans about job opportunities at Arconic,” said Lyle Andersen, tour organizer and veteran. "Partnering with the Quad Cities Chamber to highlight our operation for local workforce organizations and veterans is a great way to show what we do here and how to apply for employment. Like many manufacturers in the Quad Cities, we are always on the lookout for talented veterans to help fill our employment needs," he said.

"We applaud the efforts of our veteran workforce practitioners who connect veterans with workforce services, promote SkillBridge opportunities and assist with education and training programs in the region," said Chris Caves, Vice President, Business Retention & Expansion, Workforce for the Chamber. "Arconic was an excellent host, pulling in their veteran employee group members to welcome tour participants and share their experiences. The Quad Cities is proud of our veteran community, and employers in this region really understand the unique strengths of this workforce population," she added.