The American Legion strongly supports the H.R. 1669, VET- TEC Authorization Act. This crucial legislation introduced by Rep. Juan Ciscomani, (R-AZ.- 6) has already passed the House and will make the VET-TEC program permanent. This test pilot program has successfully provided critical high-technology training to veterans hoping to start a new career in the technology sector. According to a Government Accountability Office (GAO) report, over 66% of the almost 7,000 veterans participating in the pilot program graduated as of May 2022. This program is particularly beneficial because it allows veterans to be rapidly trained and enter the workforce, with most programs completed in 3 months. Finally, graduates of the program enjoy average starting salaries of $62,491. Despite most VET-TEC programs taking less than three months to complete, this starting salary is $3,000 more than the average American graduating with a four-year bachelor’s degree. 

Since the start of the VET-TEC pilot program in 2019, it has matched veterans and servicemembers within 180 days of transitioning out of the military with a leading training provider to help them develop high-tech skills. Through the program, participants are provided tuition for a full-time high-tech training program and money for housing during their training. 

The House has widely supported this critical piece of legislation to permanently reauthorize the VET-TEC Program, passing by a 409-9 vote. We ask that you contact your Senators today and urge them to pass the VET-TEC Authorization Act!