Attracting, developing and retaining talent is of increasing concern to our industry. Military veterans represent a strong talent pool of highly motivated, employees who possess many valuable skills and experience required by our industry, especially when it comes to various technician level positions.
SEMI has made it a priority to help connect the constituencies through the SEMI WorksTM portal and certifications, information to our members on how to attract Veterans, and regular communications to both communities. Companies are encouraged to register for a virtual Career Fair on January 26, 2021 hosted by Fort Hood Soldier for Life - Transition Assistance Program. This is an excellent opportunity for companies looking to recruit US military veterans.
An example of success is TEL US. The company has worked closely with the U.S. military to recruit veterans and recently was presented with the 2020 HIRE Vets Medallion Award in recognition of its commitment to hiring and retaining military veterans. Interesting in having your company recognized? Registration season for the 2021 HIRE Vets Medallion Program is now open. To participate in the only federal award program that recognizes employers who recruit, employ, and retain veterans, visit HIREvets Medallion.
What is SEMI doing?

Building Recognition
Building recognition that military veterans represent a strong talent pool of highly motivated, employees who possess many valuable skills and experience required by our industry, especially when it comes to various technician level positions.

Member Directory
Directing Veterans to our member companies to learn more about specific opportunities in their region or field.

Connecting Vets & Jobs
Operating a “Vet Connect” outreach program in which returning service members and veterans will be encouraged to go to SEMI’s website to learn about our industry and the careers that it offers.

Vet-Friendly Website
Encouraging members to establish veteran-friendly landing pages on their website that will more effectively connect them to this valuable and needed talent pool.
What does a Veteran-friendly website look like?
- JOB OPENINGS: especially maintenance and operator technicians, logistics, HVAC, and positions which are aligned with the vast majority of those who have served in the military.
- TRAINING/APPRENTICESHIP: that help job seekers leverage existing knowledge and experience to expedite the learning process and succeed.
- FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE: programs that help defray the cost of learning and skills training.
- OPPORTUNITIES: how to learn more about the company and potential careers.
- BENEFITS: any programs designed to leverage existing veteran’s benefits.
- GUIDANCE: simple 1-2-3 next steps if interested.
The items above represent a basic list of best practices and is not intended to be all inclusive. However, it provides companies with a start toward being more efficient and an effective way to connect though a consistent process, look and feel.