A s supply chains continue to face workforce shortages and evolving demands, many employers nd that hiring veterans isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s a smart strategic move. Their background in leadership, discipline, adaptability, and systems thinking makes veterans well suited for roles in transportation, distribution, operations, and beyond. Veterans often arrive with a mission- rst mindset, the ability to perform under pressure, and a deep understanding of safety, structure, and continuous improvement. Additionally, exibility and adaptability are key characteristics of both a successful supply chain and a military operation. Veterans know how to make adjustments to a plan under re to accomplish the mission. “If you look at veterans’ work ethic and ability to learn, and you’re willing to offer some training for the skill required in a job, you’ll get employees coming out of the service that will thrive in your organization,” says Brian Morgan, senior talent advisor with CSX Transportation, who joined the U.S. Navy at age 17 with parental permission. Despite their quali cations, the transition from military to civilian work can be challenging. Veterans must translate military job codes into corporate skills, navigate unfamiliar hiring practices, and nd employers who understand and value their experience. Additionally, veterans who joined the military right out of high school may never have put together a resume or interviewed for a job previously. That’s where programs like the Department of Defense’s SkillBridge, Hiring Our Heroes, and the Wounded Warrior Project come in—providing essential support to bridge the gap. Military veterans bring grit, leadership, and a mission-first mindset to the logistics sector, proving to be the secret weapon in solving today's tough supply chain challenges. BY GARY WOLLENHAUPT VETERANS FIND A NEW FRONTLINE IN LOGISTICS
July 2025 • Inbound Logistics 145
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