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NCCCO Foundation Releases Workforce Research on Military Veterans in the Crane Industry

The NCCCO Foundation has published new workforce research examining how military veterans discover, transition into, and build careers within the crane industry, highlighting recruitment opportunities and persistent workforce challenges.

30 Second Takeaway A new research report from the NCCCO Foundation  finds that military veterans represent an underutilised talent pool for the crane industry, with strong alignment between veterans’ skills and industry needs, but with ongoing challenges around awareness, communication, and workforce transition. Research Examines Veterans’ Pathways into the Crane Industry The NCCCO Foundation  has published a new workforce research report examining how military veterans  enter, experience, and navigate careers in the crane industry . Released on 16 January 2026 , the report explores veterans’ awareness of crane careers, their transition from military service into civilian employment, and the factors that influence long-term retention within the industry. The research was developed in collaboration with SmallBox Consulting  and aims to provide crane owners, contractors, and industry stakeholders with practical insights into recruitment and workforce development strategies. Key Questions Explored in the Study According to the NCCCO Foundation, the report addresses four central questions: How veterans discover career opportunities in the crane industry What makes military veterans a strong fit for crane operations and related roles Why the crane industry appeals to veterans The challenges veterans face when transitioning into civilian crane careers The findings reinforce that veterans bring transferable skills, discipline, and safety awareness that align closely with the demands of crane operations. Veterans Identified as an Underutilised Talent Pool The Foundation said the research confirms that military veterans remain an underutilised workforce resource  for crane owners and contractors, despite strong alignment between industry needs and veterans’ backgrounds. T.J. Cantwell , executive director of the NCCCO Foundation, said: “The new research reinforces that veterans represent an untapped source of high-quality potential employees and that the crane industry provides a unique environment that is a very good fit for the skills and values of veterans.” Cantwell added that improved communication, targeted outreach, and clearer career pathways could benefit both employers and veterans seeking long-term civilian careers. Webinar Highlights Lived Experience In conjunction with the report’s release, the NCCCO Foundation hosted a webinar  highlighting key findings and featuring veteran speakers  with firsthand experience transitioning into crane industry roles. The panel included a Marine Corps veteran and crane operator  with more than a decade of industry experience, who shared practical guidance for veterans entering the workforce and for companies aiming to recruit, onboard, and retain veteran talent. A recording of the webinar is available alongside the research report. Accessing the Research The full research report is available as a free download  on the NCCCO Foundation’s website, together with the webinar recording. Report link:   https://ncccofoundation.org/research/military-veteran-research/ About the NCCCO Foundation The NCCCO Foundation  is a non-profit organisation dedicated to promoting safety, education, and workforce development  within the crane, rigging, and load handling industries. Established to support research, training initiatives, and industry outreach, the Foundation works closely with employers, educators, military transition programmes, and industry partners. Through commissioned research and educational programmes, the NCCCO Foundation aims to address workforce shortages, improve safety outcomes, and support long-term career pathways within the crane industry. Website:   https://ncccofoundation.org/ Frequently Asked Questions What is the focus of the NCCCO Foundation’s new research? The research examines how military veterans discover, enter, and experience careers in the crane industry, and the challenges they face transitioning into civilian employment. Who developed the research report? The report was developed by the NCCCO Foundation in collaboration with SmallBox Consulting . Why are veterans considered a good fit for the crane industry? Veterans often bring transferable skills such as discipline, safety awareness, teamwork, and technical aptitude that align closely with crane operations and site requirements. Where can the report be accessed? The report and a recording of the accompanying webinar are available for free on the NCCCO Foundation website.

nccco-foundation-releases-workforce-research-on-military-veterans-in-the-crane-industry

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