The Agri-Center is unveiling a new program aimed at helping local veterans secure jobs.
Organizers say former President George W. Bush will be in the South Valley early next year, lending his support to local vets looking for work in the ag industry.
Jerry Sinift says hundreds of exhibitors at the World Ag Expo ask him where they can fill out their workforce with qualified people.
The CEO says veterans carry with them the necessary tools needed to succeed in the ag industry.
"Returning veterans they have a work ethic that you really don't experience. They understand the chain of command. So those are good folks that you want to get into those kinds of jobs," Sinift said.
Training from the Agri-Center will be conducted through classes at Fresno State and College of the Sequoias in Visalia.
The Employment Development Department is optimistic the program will lead to higher employment rates among local vets.
"The reintegration through the schools is going to be an integral part in assisting these veterans. Shortening the school times and allowing them to come through," Dion Dorado of the Employment Development Department said.
There are 18-thousand veterans in Tulare County alone, but the program will be open to all vets in the Central Valley.
The Ag Warriors program promises to provide a smooth transition for them from military life to civilian life.
