Unique agreement to help fill demand for skilled workers in the trucking industry

The US Army Reserve and Con-way Freight, a less-than-truckload (LTL) freight carrier and subsidiary of Con-way Inc., announced the launch of a unique public-private partnership that will allow both organizations to recruit, train and employ individuals interested in both serving the nation and pursuing a career in the commercial freight transportation industry. The official signing ceremony was held at Con-way Freight's new headquarters located at 2211 Old Earhart Road in Ann Arbor.

The Army Reserve's partnership with Con-way Freight is the first of its kind in the state of Michigan. Con-way Freight is also the first company within the transportation industry to join the new Employer Partnership initiative.

The agreement provides Army Reserve Soldiers opportunities for employment with Con-way Freight once they successfully complete their military occupational training. The Army Reserve and Con-way Freight will work together to recruit, license and offer training reciprocity to qualified Soldier candidates who are entering the freight transportation field.

"We are proud to have Con-way Freight, a company that has a strong reputation for supporting the US military, as an employer partner," said Lt. Gen. Jack C. Stultz, Chief, Army Reserve and Commanding General, Army Reserve Command. "Our partnership will provide Soldiers with opportunities to apply the unique skills and experience they have gained in the Army Reserve to the civilian workforce."

"The brave men and women of the Army Reserve are well known for their leadership, teamwork and professionalism. They understand esprit de corps and they bring a level of experience and work ethic to the job that's a tremendous asset for our organization," said John G. Labrie, president, Con-way Freight.

"It's an honor to join the Army Reserve in this partnership. We consider it a competitive advantage to be a recommended employer of choice for such a highly skilled and dedicated group of individuals as they take the next step in their careers."

The Employer Partnership seeks to formalize the relationship between the Army Reserve and the private sector. It establishes a process whereby employers and the Army Reserve may secure and share the talents of trained professionals. Partners such as Con-way Freight will benefit from the employment of men and women with Army values, experience and proven leadership skills. Other Employer Partners include American Trucking Associations, Inc. and Inova Health Systems.