Fort Hood

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Partnering in a Shared Mission of Economic Growth

Killeen’s strength is deeply tied to its mutually beneficial partnership with Fort Hood – a relationship that continues to drive the city’s economy. As the U.S. Army’s premier installation for training and deploying heavy armored forces, Fort Hood provides Killeen with unmatched stability, scale, and consistency.

Economic Contributions

The base ensures a steady influx of residents and a skilled workforce, ensuring demand for housing, retail, and services, keeping Killeen growing even as other Texas regions slow.

Fort Hood is the largest single-site employer in Texas.

Fort Hood’s presence creates an impactful, stable foundation of $39 billion to the regional economy. 

Positioned along the I-14/I-35 corridor between Austin and Dallas, Fort Hood attracts businesses seeking easy access to major markets.

Ongoing population turnover creates consistent rental demand, stabilizes property values, and draws investors.

Military connections and specialized programs help  Killeen build a broader, more resilient economic base.

Fort Hood’s presence enriches Killeen, contributing to strong schools, accessible healthcare, and lively cultural and recreational opportunities.

Training Pathways

For the hundreds of transitioning soldiers, Killeen works with Fort Hood to provide critical training pathways that assist in translating military skills into high-demand civilian positions. 

  • Career Skills Program (CSP) partners with companies to offer apprenticeships for specific industries (IT, construction, healthcare)

  • United Brotherhood of Carpenters’ Military Veteran Program provides training in carpentry/mill writing leading to union apprenticeships in Killeen.

  • HBI offers construction training in electrical, HVAC, and carpentry with job placement assistance.

  • Army Continuing Education System (ACES) and the VA make general education/funding assistance available for tech, trades, and healthcare certifications, as well as offering counseling