CSUSB participates in CSU’s ‘Troops to Trades’ program

SAN BERNARDINO, Calif. -- Cal State San Bernardino is the site of a pilot program for the 23-campus California State University system that provides internships for military veterans and active duty personnel.

The first veteran to participate in the program, David Aleman of Grand Terrace, began an internship on Sept. 23 at CSUSB’s facilities services-heating and air conditioning department to learn the skills of a building service engineer with the goal of becoming an apprentice.

A U.S. Army combat veteran who served in Iraq and Kuwait for 15 months, Aleman is learning about building and campus central plant heating, ventilating and air conditioning systems through his work with a senior building service engineer.

“I’m very excited to be at CSUSB and to have the opportunity to learn a new trade through this VA program,” said Aleman. “From day one, I have met so many friendly and talented people whom I’ve learned from,” he said, clutching a green notebook in his hand. “I take thorough notes on everything I’m learning.”

“When we were asked to be a pilot campus, we were eager and excited to help with this program,” said Tony Simpson, senior director of facilities services at CSUSB. “The logistics of setting up this program was a bit challenging, but in close partnership with the CSU Chancellor’s office and Veterans Affairs, we were able to start this program at CSUSB.”

Under the federal Department of Veterans Affairs’ Chapter 31 Vocational Employment Program, the Non-Paid Work Experience internship provides vocational training for veterans. In the agreement with the CSU, the program requires the veteran to volunteer as an apprentice at a participating campus.

“We are very proud that Mr. Aleman represents our inaugural student. He embodies all of the best traits that veterans may offer to future employers — technical diligence, a positive team approach to learning and performing skills, and the strong motivation necessary to succeed in the workforce,” said Kraft.

The internship, provided at no cost to the hiring agency, gives eligible veterans and active duty personnel training and practical job experience, while the interns earn a subsistence allowance from the VA.

According to the partnering agencies, the program is ideal for veterans or active duty personnel who have a clearly established career goal and learn easily in a hands-on environment. It is also well suited for veterans who are having difficulties obtaining employment because of a lack of work experience.

CSU officials said that the partnership is especially appealing for campuses seeking to increase the number of skilled trades necessary to maintain university campuses.

“The program adds to the campus maintenance staff while saving the university about $58,000 per apprentice,” said Harvey DeLorm, apprenticeship coordinator at the CSU Chancellor’s Office.

James Malone, vocational counselor and internship coordinator at U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs in Long Beach, who was instrumental in securing the partnership agreement, said that the program has successfully placed more than 85 veterans in internships at various local, state and federal agencies since 2011. Thirty-six of these gained employment within the last 12 months alone.

“I am grateful for the support and assistance from the chancellor’s office and entire staff at CSUSB,” said Malone. “It takes a village and team approach to assist our veterans accomplish their goals.”

For more information about the CSU Troops to Trades program, contact Harvey DeLorm, apprenticeship coordinator at the CSU Chancellor’s Office, athdelorm@calstate.edu.

For information specifically about CSUSB’s internship, contact Tony Simpson, senior director of facilities services, at tsimpson@csusb.edu. Or contact CSUSB’s Office of Public Affairs at (909) 537-5007 and visit news.csusb.edu.