Former U.S. representative and Maine gubernatorial candidate Mike Michaud has been approved by the U.S. Senate for the post of assistant secretary of labor for veterans’ employment and training.

Sens. Susan Collins and Angus King of Maine made the announcement in a joint press release Thursday night.

The assistant secretary oversees veterans’ career service and preparation training programs.

“Mike is a man of true character whose commitment to veterans extends decades,” King said. “I know that in his new position he will continue to fight to ensure that America’s veterans have the resources and opportunities they need and deserve to succeed in life after the military.”