House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) introduced a bill last week that would help veterans gain the high-tech skills they need to compete in a 21st century workforce by covering the cost of non-traditional technology education programs.
The Veteran Employment Through Technology Education Courses (VET TEC Act), H.R. 1989, would establish a pilot program within the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) that pays for veterans to use new education models like Massive Open Online Courses and coding boot camps to develop technology skills.
“This legislation will prepare our veterans to thrive in a changing economy,” McCarthy said.
The VA would be authorized to contract with technology education programs to provide non-traditional technology courses to veterans, and it includes language that would ensure only reputable programs can partake in the program.
“While the post-9/11 GI Bill provides funding for veterans to pursue traditional education programs, rapid technological advancements have created jobs that our veterans interested in careers in the technology economy can and should fill,” McCarthy said.
“The benefits designed to help veterans transition to civilian life must be updated to expand educational opportunities and fit the changing times. Our veterans have the character and drive to do any job. We must support them to learn skills for the jobs of the future,” he added.
The measure would also provide veterans with a housing stipend to help offset living expenses.