Korea Polytechnic University expands vocational training for veterans, active-duty troops

Korea Polytechnic University is expanding its technical education programs for veterans and active-duty military personnel during Patriots and Veterans Month, aiming to help service members translate their military careers into civilian employment. The initiative offers tailored vocational training for recently discharged veterans, soldiers preparing to leave the military, and current officers and noncommissioned officers.

Jo Seung-gil, 48, served 25 years as an Army noncommissioned officer before enrolling at the university's Gangneung campus after his discharge. He acquired automotive skills there and now works as an auto mechanic at Renault Korea's Gangneung service center. Jo has earned four automotive certifications and is working toward a master automotive technician license.

"Starting over is frightening, but if you choose the joy of learning, you can absolutely build a second life," Jo said.

The university is also strengthening vocational education for active-duty soldiers, expanding partnerships with military units through its "Dream Workshop" program, which opens the university's equipment and educational facilities to the broader community.

The Seongnam campus has run a job-readiness specialist soldier program jointly with the Defense Transition Education Institute since 2024, giving young soldiers nearing discharge hands-on experience in automated device control and semiconductor processes. About 200 soldiers had participated through last year. This year, 40 soldiers completed training in March, and another 50 are scheduled to take part in June.

The Chuncheon campus ran an advanced drone operations course in April for officers and noncommissioned officers of the 13th Mechanized Infantry Brigade. Given strong satisfaction ratings, the university plans to hold additional sessions in the second half of the year after consulting with the unit.

"Patriots and Veterans Month is a time to remember and give thanks for the sacrifice and dedication of those who defended our country," Korea Polytechnic University Chairman Lee Cheol-su said. "We will help veterans make a fresh start through skills and qualifications even after taking off their uniforms, and fulfill our responsibility as a national technical university in strengthening the capabilities of active-duty soldiers."