Oil patch bits: Partnership helps veterans transition to civilian life

Petroleum News

Matson said May 28 that it has partnered with the U.S. Army to ease the transition from military life to civilian life.

Matson signed a memorandum of agreement to participate in the Partnership for Your Success program. PaYS is a strategic collaboration between the army and a cross-section of private industry, academia and public sector agencies. The program guarantees soldiers and ROTC cadets five job interviews and possible employment after their service in the military is complete.

"We are all aware that there is a shortage of skilled workers both here in Alaska and along the West Coast and we know from experience that ex-military folks make great employees and team members," said Jennifer Tungul, vice president of Alaska operations for Matson.

The army says soldiers who participate in the program "gain leadership, valuable professional and technical skills, experience, and can feel confident in their career opportunities with their five chosen PaYS partners. "Partnering with the Army through the PaYS program is a 'win-win' opportunity for everyone involved."

Matson provides twice-weekly service between Tacoma and Anchorage and Kodiak, and weekly service between Tacoma and Dutch Harbor.