Fleet Services by Cox Automotive signed an agreement this week with the U.S. Army’s Partnership for Your Success (PaYS) Program that helps soliders prepare for fleet technician and maintenance careers after they leave the military.

“Hiring veterans enriches employers with unparalleled skills, discipline, and leadership,” said Antonio Johnson, PaYS program manager, in a March 15 news release . “This partnership demonstrates the Army’s investment in its soldiers and their futures.”

The signing of the agreement on March 11 took place at Cox’s Fleet Services facility in Indianapolis. The event drew about 75 attendees from the Cox division and the Army.

The PaYS Program is a collaboration between the Army and private industry, academic institutions, and state and local public organizations. The program supports soldiers by guaranteeing them five job interviews and potential employment opportunities after they complete their Army service. By connecting America’s youth with employers who recognize the invaluable skills, discipline, and work ethic of military service members, the program encourages a dual commitment to national service and personal growth.

Since PaYS began in 2000, more than 1,220 employers have partnered with the program.

The Cox Automotive Mobility Fleet Tech (“FleeTec”) Academy, based in Indianapolis, recruits, educates, trains, graduates, hires, and retains fleet maintenance technicians at a time when the fleet sector deals with a persistent post-pandemic shortage of specialized technicians and mechanics.

“We are honored to be part of efforts to build bridges between soldiers and businesses, reinforcing the idea that the Army is a rich source of skilled and reliable recruits,” said Patrick Brennan, senior vice president of Fleet Services by Cox Automotive. “This partnership is a testament to our unwavering commitment to supporting veterans and active-duty personnel, and we look forward to the positive impact it will have on both our organization and the lives of those who have served our country.”