New North Hires Heroes
Connecting Returning Veterans with Opportunity
After serving 22 years in the U.S. Marines, Crivitz High School graduate Nick Johnsen knew one thing for sure—he wanted to come home to Northeast Wisconsin. What he didn’t know was where to start his next chapter.
That’s when Johnsen discovered New North Hires Heroes, a program designed to connect transitioning service members and veterans with regional employers ready to hire. When he was learning more about the different careers available, one listing stood out—a recruitment coordinator position with Plumbers & Steamfitters UA Local 400.
Rebecca Deschane, New North Vice President of Talent Development, and Nick Johnsen, Plumbers & Steamfitters UA Local 400 Recruitment Coordinator
From Military Service to Workforce Service
As an investor in New North, UA Local 400 has access to a range of talent resources, including the New North Hires Heroes Hiring Portal. This tool links employers directly with highly skilled veterans and military families seeking to build careers in the region.
As a portal partner, they were able to connect with Johnsen about the open role at UA Local 400 – a position that turned out to be the perfect fit. “I spent three years as a recruiter with the Marines, so I had that experience,” said Johnsen. “The challenge when you’re leaving the military is showing how your experience translates to a business environment. I talked with the union about what I could bring to the table—and they gave me a shot.”
Matching Skills to Regional Needs
Doug Dokey, business manager of UA Local 400, said the connection was a win for everyone.
“Nick had the background, the drive, and the leadership we were looking for,” Dokey said. “He was a recruiter in the military—a real go-getter. It was a natural fit.”
Today, Johnsen serves as the pipe trades recruitment coordinator, helping to attract new talent to the union’s apprenticeship program and its network of more than 100 regional contractors. He’s also paying it forward by helping other veterans make the transition to civilian careers.
“I want to reach out and help as many veterans as I can find a role in the trades,” Johnsen said. “They’ve served their country—now they can serve their communities.”
Dokey, also a veteran, said the value of hiring former service members is clear.
“Veterans understand teamwork, discipline, and commitment,” he said. “They know what it takes to get the job done. We’re hoping Nick can help us connect with more veterans who bring those same strengths to the workforce.”
Johnsen’s story illustrates how businesses can thrive when they look beyond job titles to identify the transferable skills veterans bring to civilian roles.
Regional Impact and Collaboration
Since New North Hires Heroes launched in 2020, the program has supported 96 veterans, 58 spouses, and 172 children, generating an annual economic impact of nearly $9.5 million.
Veterans are drawn to Wisconsin for its affordable cost of living, top-tier healthcare, short commutes, and unmatched outdoor recreation. The state also leads the nation in benefits for veterans and their families, making it an ideal place to build a new life after service.
Partnering for Success
During his transition, Johnsen also connected with Steve Janke of Semper Forward/Mission Wisconsin, a key New North partner that supports service members as they prepare to re-enter the civilian workforce.
“He came to a job fair in North Carolina, and I talked with him there,” Johnsen recalled. “It’s important to be prepared when you start looking for a job after being in the military. Being able to connect with opportunities through New North made a big difference.”
 Steve Janke of Semper Forward/Mission Wisconsin |
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A Mission That Continues
The story of Nick Johnsen and UA Local 400 demonstrates how collaboration between employers, community partners, and regional initiatives like New North Hires Heroes helps veterans bring their skills home—and keeps Northeast Wisconsin growing stronger.
Mary Beth Matzek
New North Blog Writer / Owner, 1BizzyWriter
