Subaru of Indiana Automotive Inc. has a long history with workforce development and talent attraction. Recently, the company, in conjunction with Greater Lafayette Commerce, launched a program to attract soldiers leaving the military to relocate to Lafayette and begin work at SIA.
The program focuses specifically on soldiers from Fort Campbell, Ky., who plan to exit the military.
Recently, 18 Fort Campbell soldiers attended a talent attraction weekend at SIA. They were able to tour the plant, explore Greater Lafayette and complete a pre-hiring assessment. Almost half of the attendees plan to accept an offer from SIA and will relocate to the area in the next couple of months.
Brad Rhorer, assistant senior manager of Human Resources at SIA, said he is not surprised the program has been successful. Lafayette and SIA have a lot to offer, especially for those just out of the military, Rhorer said.
"I think Lafayette is a great community to start and raise a family," Rhorer continued. "Also the way SIA takes care of our associates and our health care costs. … Soldiers like to make sure their families are taken care of as well and they see us as a community that does that. There are a lot of appealing points."
Kara Webb, workforce development coordinator with the Chamber of Commerce, said former soldiers have lots to offer employers as well.
"Veterans have soft skills, great team work skills, problem solving skills and the best work ethic. There are also tax credit opportunities for employers who hire veterans. America’s veterans are the backbone of community where ever they land," said Webb.