The electrical supply chain is facing a workforce crunch, but a new partnership aims to turn that challenge into an opportunity. This month, the National Association of Electrical Distributors (NAED) announced a joint initiative with several major industry groups to connect military veterans with careers across the electrical sector.

NAED is teaming up with NECA, NEMA, NEMRA, and VIPER Transitions, a veteran-led nonprofit focused on ending veteran suicide by tackling its root causes: unemployment, underemployment, substance abuse, homelessness, and a lack of community support. Together, these organizations are opening up new career pathways for transitioning service members, offering them stability, purpose, and long-term opportunity.

It’s a strategic move that goes beyond goodwill. For NAED, it aligns directly with its broader workforce development goals: helping members build stronger, more diverse talent pipelines at a time when the industry needs it most.

Veterans offer real-world strengths that matter on the job, like leadership, discipline, and practical, hands-on know-how. 

“As a veteran myself, I’m proud NAED and our channel partner associations have made this commitment to providing brave servicemembers opportunities to join an industry that has been so good to so many of us,” Wes Smith, NAED President and CEO, said. “This is a meaningful step toward building a strong, service-ready talent pipeline for our members.”

A Ready-Made Talent Pipeline for Electrical Distributors

The backbone of the effort is VIPER Transitions, whose veteran-founded model is built around making military-to-civilian career shifts smoother, faster, and more aligned with real opportunity. Through the new partnership, veterans can explore a range of roles in electrical distribution, an industry that rewards skill, grit, and leadership with career growth.

As part of a fully funded pilot program, NAED members can start tapping into this veteran talent pipeline right away, at no cost. VIPER provides transition expertise and structured recruitment support, making it easier for companies to connect with veteran candidates who are motivated, mission-ready, and trained to take action. For contractors struggling to find reliable talent, it’s a ready-made solution.

This partnership strengthens the industry from the inside out while helping fill open roles. It offers veterans meaningful work in a field that values hands-on skill, and it offers employers access to a high-character workforce built on accountability and service. With support from NAED, NECA, NEMA, and NEMRA, this initiative is designed to scale quickly and make a measurable impact.

Electrical contractors looking to future-proof their workforce and recognize the contributions of military veterans now have a powerful new tool in the talent toolbox. By tapping into this program, you gain access to disciplined problem-solvers who are trained to perform under pressure, adapt to changing conditions, and keep complex operations running smoothly, which are all essential qualities for driving long-term success in the electrical industry.

You can learn more about how to get involved with this initiative by contacting Chaney Disselhorst at cdisselhorst@naed.org.