Recruiting during a recession

Tools

Story Published: Jun 14, 2009 at 4:41 PM MST

Story Updated: Jun 14, 2009 at 4:41 PM MST

By Jennifer McGraw

Video

IDAHO FALLS - "We've seen an increase in applications," says Chief Petty Officer Kenneth Kelly.

Almost every day another company announces worker layoffs. With the economic downturn The Idaho Falls Navy Recruiters are seeing more walkins.

"More activity of people looking at this as an option then would normally look at it," says Kelly.

With the number of unemployed workers reaching 11 million this year, the job competition is stronger than ever.

"A lot of kids have joined recently especially in the Navy and the Marine Corp. They're filled to capacity," says Sheldon Stetz.

Sheldon Stetz joined the military the day after his 18th birthday and for him it's not just a job.

"Trying to make the dream come true," says Stetz.

But for some, it's just another job application as a result of a battered economy.

"I know a lot of kids who did join because hey it's a guaranteed job," says Stetz.

And they're seeing older walkins looking for help to support their families.

"The stability that the military provides is an incentive for people to look at it in our current situation," says Kelly.

Each year, the military brings in more than 300-thousand new recruits. With more applications this year, changes in recruitment rules have expanded to allow more people to enlist.

"Take everybody case by case show them what the navy can provide and if it's some thing that they choose to do then we help them pursue that and if it's not at least they looked at their options," says Kelly.

Current Weather

Current Temp 29.0 °F

A Few Clouds

Video

More Weather

Current Weather

More Weather

Upload directly from your mobile device.

Learn how

YouNews

This content requires the latest Adobe Flash Player and a browser with JavaScript enabled. Click here for a free download of the latest Adobe Flash Player.