ATLANTA (AP) — The Georgia Department of Labor is hosting events in five cities throughout the state to connect veterans with employers who are looking for skilled workers.

The department's Paychecks for Patriots event is scheduled for Oct. 17 and is part of an initiative aimed at helping as many as 80,000 veterans returning to Georgia over the next four years find work.

Officials say the department is partnering with several organizations, including the Georgia National Guard, the Technology Association of Georgia and the U.S. Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration to host the events.

The events are being held at the Chattahoochee Technical College in Acworth, the Fort Gordon U.S. Army Reserve in Augusta, Columbus State University, Central Georgia Tech in Warner Robins, and Savannah Tech.

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