Sep. 30—General Dynamics Bath Iron Works will join a U.S. Army program that guarantees job interviews and possible employment to veterans.

The company is set to sign an agreement Monday that will add Navy shipbuilding in Maine to the career opportunities offered through the Army's Partnership for Your Success Program, according to a joint statement from the Army and BIW.

The program links the Army with more than 1,220 companies and public agencies that guarantee soldiers up to five interviews and potential jobs after their military service.

Started in 2000 as an enlistment incentive for regular Army members, the program was expanded in 2002 to include Reserve soldiers. Today it also includes members of the Reserve Officers' Training Corps, Officer Candidate School, Warrant Officer Flight Training and the Army National Guard.

BIW, which has about 6,500 employees, has long recruited veterans for their strong work habits, mission-oriented skills and natural affinity for building Navy ships. Like many employers, the shipbuilder has reported recent challenges in recruitment and retention, especially related to housing and child care shortages.