Isuzu, the U.S. Department of Labor, ERS Elite and Isuzu’s nationwide dealer network marked a milestone commitment to veterans and the future of the commercial transportation workforce with a formal signing ceremony recognizing the Isuzu Veterans Apprenticeship Program (IVAP) at the company’s Center of Excellence in Pittston, Pa.
The event marks the continued growth of a program based on the premise that military veterans possess the technical skills, leadership and determination that employers seek.
Participating in the ceremony were Shaun Skinner, president of Isuzu Commercial Truck of America and Isuzu Commercial Truck of Canada; Yoshi Murakami, chairman and CEO of Isuzu North America Corporation; and Marek Laco, acting assistant secretary for the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration.
“Veterans have already answered one of the greatest calls anyone can answer — the call to serve their country,” said Skinner. “When that service ends, we believe they deserve more than our gratitude. They deserve opportunity. IVAP gives talented veterans a path to build a rewarding second career while helping our dealers develop the skilled technicians they need to serve Isuzu customers today and for years to come.”
From service to a civilian career
IVAP connects transitioning service members and veterans with technician career opportunities at participating Isuzu dealerships across the U.S.
Working with ERS Elite, the program combines paid dealership employment with on-the-job learning, mentorship, Isuzu technical training and a structured apprenticeship pathway. The program is designed to recognize and build upon the considerable mechanical and technical skills many service members develop while maintaining military vehicles, equipment, aircraft, power-generation systems and other complex machinery.
For veterans, the experience gained in uniform isn’t left behind when military service ends. Instead, their skills become the foundation of a new career with opportunities for professional development and technical certification coupled with long-term earning potential.
Disciplined veterans, structured training and stronger shops
These three small phrases capture IVAP’s mission, but its purpose extends beyond filling open positions. The program is designed to create a repeatable career pathway for veterans to successfully make one of the most significant transitions of their lives while providing Isuzu dealerships with access to individuals accustomed to working as part of a team, solving problems under pressure and taking responsibility for completing a mission, according to the company.
“Isuzu vehicles in America spans more than four decades due to strong relationships with our dealers, our customers and the communities they serve,” said Murakami. “Our commitment to the U.S. is a long-term commitment, and that includes investing in people. IVAP reflects the values we want to carry forward — respect for those who have served, the creation of opportunities for future generations and continued investment in the people who will support our customers today and in the future.”
Strengthening the Isuzu dealer network
For dealers, recruiting and retaining qualified commercial vehicle technicians is increasingly difficult as vehicle technology advances and the technician shortage grows. IVAP helps bridge the gap by connecting highly motivated candidates to Isuzu dealers. This enables dealers to expand service capacity, improve shop productivity, reduce recruiting and turnover and develop individuals who can grow a career with their businesses.
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