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Eastman Chemical to train soldiers to take civilian jobs

KINGSPORT, Tenn. — Eastman Chemical Co. has joined a program that trains soldiers for civilian jobs, a move company officials say will result in about 10 percent of the 150 to 200 chemical operator jobs being filled by Army veterans in the next few years.

Eastman signed the agreement Thursday to participate in the Army’s Partnership for Youth Success program, also known as PaYS. It is believed to be the first chemical maker to join.

Company spokesman Norris Sneed said the focus will be on chemical operator jobs, but other positions could be included, too. Besides chemicals, Eastman produces plastics and fibers.

The program trains enlisted personnel while they’re still in the Army, with the recruits signing a statement of their interest to work for the company once they complete their military service.

Near the end of their enlistments, the soldiers interview with the company for a specific job at a specific location. The program gives the soldiers priority in employment, said Col. Norvel L. Dillard, deputy commander of the U.S. Army 1st Recruiting Brigade based in Fort Meade, Md.

Sneed said military veterans make excellent employees because of their character, work ethic and discipline.

Eastman has said it expects to hire 5,000 employees through 2010 to replace retiring workers.

“We must bring on a new generation that is able to compete in a global economy,” Sneed said. “The military is an outstanding source of talent for the future.”

Eastman becomes the 218th PaYS partner, which also include BellSouth, Caterpillar, HCA, EDS, Lockheed-Martin, Sears Logistics Service, State Farm Insurance, John Deere Co., Pepsi Bottling Group, Goodyear, Dell and Southwest Airlines.

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Partnership for Youth Success

Eastman Chemical Co.