State Labor Commissioner Peter M. Rivera announced Tuesday a new “Experience Counts” initiative that helps veterans transfer military service into certification for civilian jobs and enlists staff at New York’s 91 state career centers to help place veterans in these jobs.

The initial “Experience Counts” program gave veterans access to commercial driver’s licenses by waiving the road test and fees for military members with experience in operating trucks and heavy equipment.

The newest component of “Experience Counts” certifies veterans to become a licensed armed security guard through an on-site training program. Veterans will be matched to more than 8,000 security guard jobs in New York state.

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