HERNDON, Va. -

In an effort to cut down on U.S. veteran unemployment rates, Audi announced late last week it is beginning its “Veterans to Technicians Program.”

The company contends this program immediate needs for both U.S. veterans and Audi retailers “who expect higher demand for service technicians, shop foremen and service consultants as the brand continues its growth trajectory in the United States.”

In fact, the OEM shared it expects demand for Audi dealership technicians to grow by 112 percent by 2020 as the brand continues to expand in the U.S.

So, how does the new program work?

Under the Audi program, CALIBRE, an Alexandria, Va.-based management and technology services company, will handle employment opportunity outreach to more than 1,800 military service alumni groups, major Veterans Service Organizations, state Departments of Veterans Affairs, public and private organizations that support veterans and their families and military transition assistance centers, the automaker reported.

Then, veterans who respond will be screened to see if meet the needs of an Audi dealership. The company said that the emphasis will be placed on recruiting veterans with proven automotive skills, but candidates with power generation, aviation, welding, electronics, hydraulic systems and maritime systems experience are eligible, as well.

If a veteran is hired by an Audi dealership, they will then complete the Audi FastTrack two-week training program to learn about Audi products and technologies.

“There are tremendous opportunities to match veterans who have worked on the world's most sophisticated systems with dealerships delivering the world's most sophisticated cars,” said Bernie Hyland, program manager with CALIBRE.

“There should be no shortage of high-energy, experienced, and technically knowledgeable veterans who possess a strong maintenance background and are willing to step up to the challenge of a rewarding new career and push their performance to the limits with Audi.”

Veterans with questions and Audi dealerships interested in registering can visit www.audivets.com for additional information.

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