Rep. Cook and Work for Warriors Hold Employment Networking Event

WASHINGTON- Today, Rep. Paul Cook (R-Apple Valley) joined with California National Guard leaders for a Veteran Employment Networking Event in Apple Valley at the Apple Valley Conference Center. Among the topics discussed were the Work for Warriors (WFW) Program’s successes in Cook’s district and its goals for the future.

Cook founded the Work for Warriors Caucus in 2013, amassing congressional support and, based on the program’s previous successes, securing a $1,000,000 grant from the Department of Defense. WFW has partnered with more than 360 employers to place 4,900 servicemembers and veterans in jobs since the program’s inception in March 2012- an average of two placements per business day.

Cook said, “I’m proud to be a leading advocate for the Work for Warriors Program in Congress. The successful placement of over 4,900 veterans is a testament to the qualities that our men and women in uniform offer employers. I look forward to seeing this program grow throughout the country, because we owe it to our veterans.”

Maj. Gen. David S. Baldwin, California’s Adjutant General said, “Since 9/11, California Guard members have deployed 44,000 times — more than any other state. During this period, unemployment and underemployment have been the biggest threat to our ability to call upon troops when needed. In large part because of the contributions from legislators like Congressman Cook and the many employers who support Work for Warriors, this program has given thousands of troops the stability and benefits that come with a solid career path.”

Originally established through a partnership with the State Assembly, WFW’s direct-placement model takes a multi-faceted approach to matching job candidates with employers. The program staff works with candidates to improve their marketability, and establishes lasting partnerships with employers that value the characteristics military members bring to their jobs.

A member of the House Natural Resources, Armed Services, and Foreign Affairs Committees, Cook served as an infantry officer and retired after 26 years as a Colonel in the U.S. Marine Corps. During his time in combat, he was awarded the Bronze Star and two Purple Hearts