A tour of the Raleigh statewide office and presentations from employees provided an overview of potential career paths with electric cooperatives.

“North Carolina’s electric cooperatives have always believed in opening doors to opportunity in the communities we serve,” said NCEMC COO Chris VanLokeren during the event. “Today, that commitment includes standing with our veterans as they transition to civilian life and new careers. We connect your proven leadership, discipline and real-world skills to meaningful, rewarding careers where you can continue to serve and make an impact.”

North Carolina has one of the largest military footprints of any state in the country. With 14 major locations — 11 in cooperative utility communities — three service branches employ 130,000 active-duty military personnel. In addition, North Carolina hosts more than 670,000 military veterans, representing 7% of the total population.

The Honor Foundation’s impact extends across the entire U.S. Special Operations Forces enterprise, helping veterans navigate the change from military to civilian life through its transition program, seminars and career support services.

“We’re proud to partner with The Honor Foundation, creating mission-aligned value for both organizations,”

VanLokeren said. “Our shared principles of service, innovation and supporting our communities provide benefits to all involved and strengthen our family of cooperatives.”