November 15, 2024

Nestled near Fort Cavazos (formerly Fort Hood), one of the nation’s largest military installations, Temple provides a welcoming community where veterans and their families can establish roots. According to the Heart of Texas Defense Alliance, 39% of Fort Cavazos soldiers intend to stay in the region upon completing their service. When they do, they join a vibrant veteran community — over 60,000 veterans reside in the area, making up 13% of the population, well above the national average of 5% for regions of similar size.

Veteran Success: Elliot Germany, President and CEO of Panel Specialists, Inc. (PSI)

Elliot Germany’s journey exemplifies the success of veterans in Temple. A decorated Gulf War veteran and former U.S. Army officer, Elliot’s career has taken him around the globe before he settled in Central Texas. Following his service, he pursued education at Central Texas College and Texas A&M University–Central Texas, later joining PSI, a Temple-based manufacturer specializing in institutional, commercial, and marine interior solutions.

Since 2009, Elliot has served as PSI’s President and CEO. Under his leadership, PSI remains committed to its mission: “enriching lives by enhancing the environments where people live, learn, heal, work, and play.” PSI’s diverse product range supports hospitals, schools, oil rigs, work vessels, and more.

“Workforce Solutions of Central Texas has been instrumental in connecting transitioning soldiers with opportunities in our area. At PSI, veterans serve in roles across the organization, from management to production,” Elliot notes.

Why Hire a Soldier?

Temple employers have a unique opportunity to engage with the area’s abundant pool of transitioning military talent. Veterans bring a wealth of experience, often backed by advanced degrees and technical training, along with attributes that apply to any industry:

  • Innovative, out-of-the-box thinking
  • Complex problem-solving abilities
  • Loyalty, drive, and competitiveness
  • Adaptability to both independent and team environments
  • High standards of professionalism

Programs like Hiring Our Heroes (HOH) and the VA’s Guide to Hiring Veterans offer valuable resources for employers eager to recruit and retain veteran talent, fostering a workforce enriched by military precision and dedication.

Temple’s Military Friendly® Organizations in the Spotlight

As we observe National Veterans and Military Families Month this November, Temple honors the employers leading the way in supporting military communities. VIQTORY recently recognized several area employers for their Military Friendly® practices, designations awarded to organizations creating meaningful opportunities for veterans. Among Temple’s major employers, Baylor Scott & White Health received a Gold ranking, McLane Group earned Bronze, and BNSF Railway was awarded both Gold and Military Friendly Company designations. Additionally, Southwestern University in nearby Georgetown earned Silver as a 2024 Military Friendly School.

Strengthen Your Business with Veteran Talent

Temple’s strategic location, veteran-friendly culture, and strong talent pool make it an ideal place to grow a business. Our team at the Temple Economic Development Corporation (TEDC) is here to connect you with resources and support. Reach out to TEDC today to discover how Temple’s unique workforce can help drive your business forward.