OPI, DLI Announce Upcoming Move of Veteran’s Education Program

• Anastasia Burton
• September 29 2021

HELENA - State Superintendent Elsie Arntzen announced today that the State Approving Agency (SAA) for Veteran’s Education programs for Montana will be moved to the Department of Labor & Industry beginning October 1. The SAA is responsible for ensuring that credible education and training programs, through the use of the GI Bill®, are available to all Montana veterans.

“I am always mindful of ways to better serve Montana through making good government into great government. I am humbled to announce this new partnership to collaboratively protect and safeguard both veterans and veteran benefits,” said Superintendent Elsie Arntzen. “As the State Approving Agency transitions to the Department of Labor & Industry, we will enhance communication flow and efficiencies to better serve our Montana veterans as they seek educational opportunities.”

Montana Department of Labor & Industry Commissioner Lauri Esau says, “We owe our veterans a tremendous debt of gratitude, and many veterans leave their service with needed skills that make them highly sought-after in the job market. Transitioning the State Approving Agency responsibilities to DLI will help us leverage efficiencies and ease communication about training opportunities available to veterans across Montana.”

Many of the training programs in Montana that are approved by the SAA are also registered apprenticeships through DLI. This connection allows for a joint effort in providing many opportunities to veterans who want to use their GI Bill® while in the workforce, such as during an apprenticeship or an on-the-job-training program.  

Additionally, DLI has positions and programs related to veterans and veteran benefits; it is anticipated the transfer will improve communication, liaison, and outreach activities, resulting in more efficient and collective services provided to Montana veterans.

For more information, contact Compliance Specialist John Stankowiak at (406) 444-4122 or John.Stankowiak@mt.gov.

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