Why the On-the-Job training program for veterans is a great talent pool for commercial real estate appraisal
Feb 6, 2013
A number of organizations, from Walmart to Congress, are working to help veterans find jobs when they return to civilian life. But the Department of Veterans Affairs’ On-the-Job and Apprenticeship Training program goes a step further, helping veterans not only find work, but to learn a trade or skills that will improve their long-term hirability.
While many veterans start apprenticeships focused on vocational work, Army veteran Steve Soder is using the opportunity to start a career in commercial real estate. We hired Steve as an analyst in IRR’s San Francisco office, and he’s enrolled in courses at the Appraisal Institute toward his licensing. In fact, we’re finding that the On-the-Job training program is a great fit for the commercial real estate industry. Here’s why.
Educational support
To earn their certified general license, commercial real estate appraisers need a minimum of 2,500 documented hours of experience over a minimum of 30 months, as well as 200 hours of supporting coursework. Most entry-level employees spend four to five years attaining their license, since the classes can be costly (especially for an employee straight out of college), and our office typically subsidizes only one class per year.
But Steve’s G.I. Bill benefits allow him to take a greater number of classes, which will complement his time in the office. With that in mind, we designed an 18-month whirlwind program that combines the strong fundamentals taught in Appraisal Institute classes with real-world processes at Integra Realty Resources. By the end of his apprenticeship, Steve will have taken most of the courses he’ll need for his licensing. In addition, the synergy between the classroom and the office will give Steve the vocabulary, theory, and experience for a successful career in commercial real estate appraisal.
Top-tier talent
We hired Steve because he was a strong performer during his internship with us, but it makes sense that veterans would be well-suited to appraisal. Veterans have experience in a multifaceted job and have already been challenged in a number of ways. And while commercial real estate appraisal is obviously nowhere near as demanding as serving in the military, it is a multidisciplinary field, and Steve will be well-served by his drive, discipline, and ability to make decisions under pressure.
The On-the-Job training program has been a great success so far at Integra Realty Resources. The program offers companies disciplined, experienced employees who can follow an accelerated learning plan. But most importantly, it’s a great way to honor our veterans and the sacrifices they’ve made by offering them a head start on their career.
