Diversity and Inclusion

In 2020, Fermilab launched Veteran Applied Laboratory Occupational Retraining (VALOR). This program is a right-sizing of Fermilab’s award-winning legacy program, VetTech. The new program expands opportunities for military veterans by providing multiple entry points for STEM-based technical learning and training that lead to consideration for full-time employment. Interested parties are encouraged to apply at Fermilab jobs.

The VALOR JROTC Program is a highly competitive, paid, six-week summer internship opportunity for Illinois JROTC high school juniors, seniors, and recent graduates. Interns provide routine technical support for area of assignment; typically, an experiment or support group. Tasks are accomplished under direction supervision of a Fermilab employee and in cooperation with project teams, scientists, engineers, and support personnel and in accordance with established policies and procedures.

A Fermilab VetTech is a military veteran interning as a technician to provide routine technical support for an assigned experiment or support group. The VetTech Internship Program assumes apprenticeship level expertise, general military experience and/or knowledge based on academic study. A VetTech works under the direct supervision of a Fermilab employee. The technician-intern may fabricate, assemble, calibrate, operate, test, repair or modify a variety of electronic or mechanical equipment, systems, devices or databases. The intern may also work in information technology, procurement or perform environmental, safety and health duties, including environmental, wastewater disposal and radiological surveys.10-week, 40-hour workweek, paid internships are available annually in the summer.

The VALOR Apprenticeship is a highly competitive, paid, six-month fall/spring training and career exploration program for military veterans at the beginning of their civilian careers and recent Illinois JROTC high school graduates. During the program, participants build and enhance their technical, computing, or business proficiencies. Assuming apprentice-level expertise, general military experience and/or knowledge based on academic study, the opportunity offers a wide range of placement options. The apprenticeship may allow the participant to fabricate, assemble, calibrate, operate, test, repair or modify electronic or mechanical equipment, systems, devices, or databases. Exposures may also include experiences with information technology, procurement, or environmental, safety and health.

Eligibility, requirements and deliverables vary by year and by program, and details are available at the Internships website.

The U.S. Department of Labor named Fermilab a 2019 and 2024 HIRE Vets Gold Medallion Award recipient. The award recognizes job creators who demonstrate a strong commitment to recruiting, hiring and retaining the nation’s veterans.