Rivian Training Veterans in Georgia

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Rivian seems to be on a roll. As part of a new workforce development push (anticipating the need for more employees, no doubt), the all-electric automaker is scoring big points in a bipartisan way. It is now training veterans in technical trades in Fort Benning, Georgia.

“Rivian (NASDAQ: RIVN) and the Veterans Training Empowerment Center (VTEC), a Career Skills Program (CSP) officially designated by the United States Army, today announced the launch of the Rivian Technical Trades Program at Fort Benning, Georgia,” the company wrote yesterday. “The program is designed to help veterans transitioning out of service prepare for careers in electric vehicle service and maintenance. The first cohort will complete the 15-week program in 2026, and graduates will be offered employment opportunities by Rivian upon successful completion of the program.”

This is what we need, and especially Rivian if it wants to have a good pipeline of workers to help it build and service mass-market electric vehicles.

Rivian is currently building a new factory in Stanton Springs North near Social Circle, Georgia. In addition to creating 2,000 construction jobs for that, the company anticipates it will create 7,500 jobs there by 2030. The company also has two service centers in Georgia.

As I wrote yesterday, with the rest of the EV industry stepping back (legacy automakers) or shooting itself in the foot (Tesla), a highway of growth may be opening up for Rivian. Rather than let the US fall far behind the rest of the world, Rivian is intent on helping us keep the pace. “With a suite of high-performance, all-electric vehicles designed, engineered, and assembled in the United States, Rivian seeks to bolster American dominance in automotive and advanced technologies, helping to maintain the country’s global leadership and economic competitiveness.” Well … “dominance” and “leadership” may be a bit of a marketing stretch now, but let’s see what Rivian can do.

“EV service technicians require specialized skills for working with vehicles powered by advanced software and high-voltage batteries requiring special handling. While EVs require less regular maintenance than their gas-powered counterparts, service technicians must understand EV vehicle architecture, critical systems, and how to work safely with electricity.” Indeed. I couldn’t have said it better myself.

“Partnering with Rivian represents a turning point for America’s heroes,” said David W. Gallemore, CEO of VTEC and a service-disabled veteran. “This program is more than training — it’s about opening doors to meaningful careers, strengthening families, and building resilient communities. Our vision is to expand these opportunities nationwide, ensuring that thousands of transitioning soldiers, veterans, and their loved ones have the tools, support, and pathways they need to thrive in civilian life and shape the future of our country.”

Aside from the new factory, two service centers, and Rivian Technical Trades Program, Rivian has also put its East Coast HQ in Midtown Atlanta. It plans to employ 500 people there in time. Kudos to Georgia, but don’t forget about Florida! We need more Rivian centers down here, for sales, service, and potentially more.