I can’t believe it has been a year since I had the privilege of joining members of the Canadian Forces at the base in Petawawa, ON. I was invited to experience being a ‘Soldier for a Day’ by the good people of Canada Company, a non-profit organization that invests in developing relationships with the business community to increase employment opportunities for Military members transitioning to civilian life. The ‘Soldier for a Day’ program demonstrates the wide array of skills Military members have and how they can transition to their next career. Bison welcomes retiring Military because their skill sets meet our business needs. Growing our relationship with Canada Company and the Military allows us to highlight why Bison Transport is a great option for their next career.

With the current and forecasted professional Driver and heavy-duty technician shortage in the transportation industry, sourcing appropriate talent is the key to Bison’s overall success. When we take a moment to look at the training Military members have, we quickly see their skills are vast and extremely transferable to our environment. Military members demonstrate leadership, dedication, adaptability, loyalty and much more throughout their careers. These skills are in high demand in all business sectors. Bison looks for these abilities in all areas of our business, regardless if it’s for professional Drivers, maintenance, logistics, warehousing or any of our other opportunities.

I was captivated by my experience and the extent to which I was able to participate. I was shown how to operate a number of Military weapons and had the pleasure of driving a Coyote, a once in a lifetime experience for a civilian. Overall the experience was more than I could have hoped for and if I had to summarize it in one word, it would be pride. The soldiers I was privileged to work with were so proud of what they do and their pride was contagious. After hearing their stories about the sacrifices they have made and will continue to make, I was overwhelmed with pride for them and our country.

We often forget the freedom we are blessed with is a direct result of the men and women who protect our rights and freedoms. I will forever remember this amazing opportunity and will be forever grateful to the men and woman who served, are serving and will serve our country in the Military. On behalf of me, Bison Transport and all Canadians, Thank you!

To learn more about opportunities at Bison for those with a military background, please click here.