COLUMBIA, S.C. —Anthony Outing wished he had been aware of benefits and resources available when supporting an ailing Veteran family member. He said more support might have changed everything for his family.

As a supervisor at Trane Technologies, he heard other Veteran employees navigating personal obstacles and knew there were resources out there that could help. He made it his mission to bridge the gap.

Trane Technologies partnered with the South Carolina Department of Veterans’ Affairs (SCDVA), the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, and Combined Arms to host a Vet Connect event at its Columbia facility on Friday. The event educated employees on the benefits, healthcare resources, career support, and community services available to them.

"Those resources, support, and sense of community need to be broadcast to families who are currently in battle," said Product Support Specialist, Anthony Outing. "Even if a Trane employee is not a Veteran, they likely know a family member, friend, or neighbor who could benefit."

Trane Technologies employs approximately 1,500 team members, including more than 150 self-identified Veterans. The company believes supporting Veterans extends beyond recruitment. Through programs like the company's Veterans Employee Resource Group (VERG), Trane works to support Veterans long after their military service ends. 

"My goal is not only to help Veterans transition successfully into civilian careers but also to ensure they feel valued, connected, and supported throughout that journey," said Veterans Employee Resource Group Chair, Marvis Green.

The resource event provided a unique opportunity for SCDVA and federal VA representatives to meet Veterans where they work. By bringing accredited claims and benefits professionals directly to the workplace, Veteran employees were able to receive information, advocacy, and one-on-one assistance with VA benefits without taking time away from their jobs.

The partnership between Trane Technologies, SCDVA, Combined Arms, and federal VA representatives resulted in direct engagement with at least 40 Veterans. Several employees who had never previously filed for VA benefits were able to speak with benefits professionals and begin connecting with the services and resources they are entitled to through their military service.

SCDVA representatives were excited by Trane Technologies' commitment to its Veteran workforce, noting that the company's Veterans Employee Resource Group and Human Resources team created a welcoming environment where Veteran employees felt valued, supported, and understood.

For more information on how employers can recruit and support Veteran employees check out our Veteran Employer Recognition Program. For assistance accessing and learning about resources, benefits, and support available to Veterans explore scdva.sc.gov