U.S. Department of Labor Announces John Lowry III as New Assistant Secretary for the Veterans’ Employment and Training Service

WASHINGTON, DC – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced that John Lowry III of Chicago, Illinois has been sworn in as the Assistant Secretary of Labor for the Veterans' Employment and Training Service (VETS).

"I'm thankful that John Lowry has brought his incredible experience, expertise, and passion to the Department of Labor," U.S. Secretary of Labor Eugene Scalia said. "As a Marine Corps veteran who's had a successful career in business, he understands well how military service can lead to exceptional contributions in the private sector. John's conviction is that America's veterans, transitioning service members, and military spouses deserve every opportunity to succeed."

Assistant Secretary Lowry spent 25 years in military service, 15 as a regular Marine Corps officer and an additional 10 in the Marine Corps Reserve. Decorated for valor while leading a Force Reconnaissance platoon during Operation Desert Storm, Lowry's honors include the Legion of Merit, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal, Navy/Marine Corps Commendation Medal (with combat valor device), and the Combat Action Ribbon. He retired in 2009 at the rank of Colonel.

In the private sector, Lowry worked his way up to General Manager of Powertrain Operations and became a member of Harley-Davidson's Senior Leadership Group. Also, he was the former Chief Operating Officer of the Allied Recreation Group. Most recently, John led Egon Zehnder's U.S. Supply Chain and Operations Practice.

Assistant Secretary Lowry received his Bachelor of Arts from Princeton University, a Master of Liberal Arts from Stanford University, a Master of Business Administration from Harvard Business School, and a Master of Strategic Studies from the U.S. Army War College.

VETS' mission is to prepare America's veterans, service members and their spouses for meaningful careers, provide them with employment resources and expertise, protect their employment rights and promote their employment opportunities.

The mission of the Department of Labor is to foster, promote, and develop the welfare of the wage earners, job seekers, and retirees of the United States; improve working conditions; advance opportunities for profitable employment; and assure work-related benefits and rights.