Colorado Springs city leaders urge business owners to hire veterans

City leaders are sending a strong message to local businesses: Support our men and women who have served.

On Friday, Mayor John Suthers urged the Pikes Peak Region business community to hire veterans and their family members.

The goal is to have 500 hiring commitments for veterans by the end of November, in honor of Armed Services Appreciation Month.

Suthers says it’s important to thank them in return for all they’ve given.

“The military is so much a part of the fabric of our community and we want to embrace these individuals who have made such an incredible sacrifice for our country. If they want to live here, we want them here,” Suthers explained.

Army veteran Terrence McWilliams agrees, saying skills like quick decision making, managing, and being analytical can be assets to employers.

“We as soldiers don’t see those qualities because we’re so indoctrinated in the military way of thinking. We struggle with thinking, ‘What am I really going to do when I get out?’,” said McWilliams.

To learn more about employment services, head to www.coloradospringsbusinessalliance.com/ or email hireavet@csrba.com.