Service + Solidarity Spotlight: New Partnership Expands Veteran Job Opportunities in Southern California’s Utility Sector

Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our regular Service + Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.

The Utility Workers Military Assistance Program (UMAP), in partnership with Utility Workers (UWUA) Local 132 and Southern California Gas (SoCalGas), recently launched a new program to tackle homelessness among veterans through training and employment opportunities. UMAP’s effective training-to-placement model will benefit 40 veterans over the next several months, and those who successfully graduate will work for SoCal Gas as leak technicians.

“This exciting new partnership between UMAP and SoCal Gas will create a clear path forward for veterans who otherwise may have faced uncertainty about what to do next after leaving the military,” said UWUA Director of Veterans Affairs and Workforce Development Rick Passarelli. “Veterans are looking for a hand up and not a handout, and this program is a lifeline when they need it. We’re excited this program can begin to benefit veterans in California.”