Veterans Help Plug Worker Shortages at New US EV, Battery Plants

America’s biggest factory boom in generations is running up against a shortage of skilled workers. As manufacturers and technical colleges race to train employees for cleantech plants sprouting up across the country, one group is emerging to help fill the skills gap: military veterans.

Former Marines, Army avionics engineers and Navy technicians once deployed in combat zones including Iraq and Afghanistan are finding second careers at factories making electric vehicles, batteries and solar cells. They’re combining old-fashioned military discipline with new skills honed during active duty such as operating robots and drones.

“Mission-focused, adaptable, strong work ethic, ability to ...