WASHINGTON, D.C. — Military veterans could gain expanded access to training programs in artificial intelligence, semiconductor manufacturing, and other fast-growing technology sectors under bipartisan legislation introduced by Dave McCormick and Ruben Gallego.
What This Means for You
- Veterans could receive expanded training opportunities in AI, semiconductor manufacturing, and other emerging technology fields.
- The bill would broaden the VA’s VET TEC workforce training program.
- Supporters say the proposal could help veterans transition into high-demand civilian careers with stronger long-term earning potential.
The Improving Emerging Tech Opportunities for Veterans Act of 2026 would expand the Department of Veterans Affairs’ Veteran Employment Through Technology Education Courses program, known as VET TEC, to include more career pathways tied to emerging technologies.
VET TEC is a VA workforce training initiative that helps veterans enroll in short-term technology training programs outside of traditional college degree tracks.
Under the proposal, the VA would formally identify technologies considered strategically important to the United States and designate them as eligible “emerging technologies” under the program. The legislation specifically names artificial intelligence and semiconductor manufacturing as examples.
McCormick, a veteran himself, framed the bill as part of a broader effort to improve long-term economic stability for former service members transitioning into civilian life.
“While the transition back to civilian life isn’t always easy, I know firsthand as a veteran that our service men and women return as leaders, highly skilled and ready to contribute,” McCormick said. “It is our job to make sure the doors are open when they get home.”
He added that more than 200,000 service members leave the military annually and argued the legislation would help connect veterans to “stable employment, financial security and a renewed sense of purpose.”
Gallego pointed to rapid growth in advanced manufacturing and technology sectors, particularly semiconductor production.
“Emerging technologies like semiconductor manufacturing are creating thousands of good-paying jobs and shaping the future of Arizona’s economy,” Gallego said. “This bill would make sure veterans can use the education benefits they earned to train for careers in these rapidly growing industries.”
Expanded Workforce Training Requirements
Beyond broadening eligible training fields, the legislation would require the VA to promote emerging technology careers through its website and transition assistance services so veterans are more aware of available opportunities.
The bill also directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to collaborate with private industry, educational institutions, and veteran-serving nonprofit organizations to identify occupations expected to see significant growth because of emerging technologies.
Lawmakers said the effort would focus on industries that align with skills veterans may already possess through military service and technical training.
Support From Veteran Organizations
Several veteran advocacy organizations endorsed the legislation, including the Veterans of Foreign Wars and Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America.
VFW National Legislative Service Associate Director Joe Grassi said the bill would improve veterans’ access to workforce training in high-demand fields while increasing coordination between the VA and private-sector employers.
IAVA CEO Dr. Kyleanne Hunter pointed to survey data showing veterans are frequently underemployed despite extensive technical and leadership experience.
“We welcome the Senate introduction of the Improving Emerging Tech Options for Veterans Act of 2026, which will help bridge the gap between our veterans’ true capabilities and the high-skilled careers where we know they can excel,” Hunter said.
Broader Veteran Policy Push
McCormick has also backed several additional veteran-focused bills this congressional session, including proposals related to traumatic brain injury treatment, veteran suicide prevention, housing assistance eligibility, and federally funded research into therapies for post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, and substance use disorder.
The legislation would still require approval from both chambers of Congress before becoming law.
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