VANCE, Ala. –
Mercedes-Benz U.S. International signed a memorandum of agreement with the U.S. Army March 25, officially joining the Army’s Partnership for Youth Success program, which connects Soldiers leaving military service with potential employers.
Lt. Gen. Maria Gervais, deputy commanding general of U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command, and Michael Göbel, president and chief executive officer of Mercedes-Benz, presided over the signing ceremony at the plant where vehicles are produced in Alabama.
“This is such a significant event and we’re very honored and proud to be joining this partnership,” Gervais said. “It is absolutely the beginning - the beginning of strengthening the already strong partnership that exists here in this community and in this state.”
Partnerships like this one allow Soldiers who chose to serve their nation the opportunity to come back home after their military service, plug back into their community, and serve their local community.
“Our PaYS program partnerships are an important part of ensuring our Soldiers have career options once they leave military service,” said Brig. Gen. Daphne Davis, the deputy commanding general for support for U.S. Army Recruiting Command, who also attended the ceremony. “I’m particularly excited about what this means for our Army Reserve Soldiers, This is an opportunity they can take advantage of now, while still serving their country. It’s the opportunity to build two careers simultaneously.”
Through this strategic partnership, the PaYS program aims to attract new recruits to the Army by offering the incentive of career opportunities post-military service, and PaYS program partners have the chance to interview and hire highly skilled and motivated Soldiers looking for their next career.
Active-duty Soldiers who select the PaYS option in their initial contract are able to interview for jobs with up to five participating employers once they have completed their service obligation. Army Reserve Soldiers, however, are able to start interviewing for jobs as soon as they’ve completed their initial training, which means they could start a career with a PaYS partner while serving pert-time in the Army Reserve.
While not a guarantee of employment, securing an interview is one crucial step that gives transitioning Soldiers an advantage as they seek employment outside the Army.
Participation in PaYS is just one of many incentives in a robust package Soldiers receive upon joining the Army. All Soldiers receive base pay, medical care, and extra money for food and housing. Currently, the Army is also offering additional bonuses of up to $50,000, and a choice of Soldiers’ first duty station locations.