The CivilianJobs.com 2015 Most Valuable Employers (MVE) for

The CivilianJobs.com
2015 Most Valuable
Employers (MVE) for Military®
Below and on the pages that follow, please find employer profiles of the 2015 MVEs.
The brief snapshots capture some of the highlights regarding why these military-friendly
companies were recognized as winners, and why they are employers worth seeking out if
you are a military-experienced job seeker.
www.aarcorp.com
AAR CORP (Wood Dale, IL): “Forty-one percent of AAR CORP’s sales in the last
fiscal year were to government and defense customers, making AAR CORP an attractive employer to military service
members,” says Candace Goodpaster, V.P. Human Resources, Repair & Engineering Group. AAR CORP is a charter
member of the Illinois Veteran Consortium and also an active member of the Veterans Working Group (a group of
employers focused on recruiting veterans). In addition, AAR CORP has participated in recruiting events sponsored
by the 100,000 Jobs Mission. Twenty-one percent of U.S. employees are veterans. About one-third of the company’s
annual charitable donations go to veteran-related causes including: The Army Navy Club, Marine Corps Scholarship
Foundation, Pizzas 4 Patriots, Navy Seal Foundation and USAFA Endowment.
www.accenture.com/military
Accenture (Dublin, Ireland): Accenture, a global technology company with 44 U.S.
locations, offers wide career opportunities to veterans. “Many apply their experience in the
government environment with Accenture Federal Services, while others choose to apply their functional skills, such
as management, logistics, cyber security or accounting,” says Christopher Green, Military Recruiting Lead. Accenture
uses a number of training programs for transitioning veterans, such as training for Mortgage Analyst jobs. Accenture
also has a Military Employee Resource Group of more than 1,000 members. Among its many initiatives, Accenture
is a national sponsor of the Student Veterans Success Corps. The company created the “Accenture Student Veteran
Network,” which informs student veterans of campus and entry-level opportunities.
www.airproducts.com
Air Products (Allentown, PA): Small teams of 12 to 20 people run 200 U.S.-based
plants for Air Products, a leading industrial gases company. For nearly 75 years, the company has provided atmospheric,
process, and specialty gases and related equipment to manufacturing markets. “We know military-trained people will
assimilate into this culture and thrive in their civilian careers,” says Connie Metzger, Talent Acquisition Supervisor/
Recruiter. Air Products hired 30 veterans last year. “The training programs in our plant are very similar to the training
programs in the military,” Metzger says. “The existing team in most of our plants already consists of veterans, and the
culture feels very comfortable for new hires.”
www.alaskaair.com
Alaska Airlines (Seattle, WA): Alaska Airlines is often called upon to transport remains
of military members. It “is a duty that is executed with pride and professionalism at every turn,” says Eileen Bergmann,
Manager of Organizational Development & Effectiveness. That’s just one aspect of the company’s supportive corporate
culture. MSgt Robert Ernst, Air Force Reserve, says employees supported him and his wife during a six-month
deployment. “Deployments are never easy on family and civilian employers, but the continual support from Alaska
Airlines speaks volumes of the quality of people we have in our company,” Ernst says. Alaska also supports Paralyzed
Veterans of America, Nisei Veterans Committee, VFW and USO Northwest.
www.amazon.com/military
Amazon.com, Inc. (Seattle, WA): Many veterans are excelling in a variety of
careers across Amazon. “We actively seek leaders who can invent, think big, have a
bias for action and deliver results on behalf of our customers,” says CEO Jeff Bezos. “These principles look very
familiar to men and women who have served our country in the armed forces, and we find that their experience
leading people is invaluable in our fast-paced work environment.” The Amazon Military Talent Partnership
aids the transition of veterans into the Amazon culture. Additionally, the AMTP has partnered with external
organizations such as the 100,000 Jobs Mission Coalition, Corporate Gray, Military One Click and the Military
Spouse Employment Partnership.
www.adm.com
Archer Daniels Midland (Chicago, IL): As a global, leading agricultural processor, ADM meets
the need for quality foods, feed ingredients for livestock, alternative fuels and environmentally
friendly alternatives to traditional chemicals. “Employees also have a history of supporting military
colleagues, whether they are away for two-week Guard training or deployed overseas,” says Dean Espenschied,
Employee and Labor Relations Representative. ADM has held a military hiring event in the local National Guard
armory for the past two years, partnering with the Illinois Department of Employment Security, ESGR, Illinois
National Guard, VA representatives and Heroes to Hired. In 2014, ADM participated in 12 military career fairs.
The company is also establishing the Veterans Engagement and Transition Resource Group.
www.bakerhughes.com
Baker Hughes (Houston, TX): Baker Hughes, one of the world’s largest oilfield services
companies, brings veterans on board via its Military Recruiting Program. The company partners
with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in the Hiring Our Heroes initiative, acts as a Bronze Partner with NCOA/Military.
com in their career fairs and placement, and actively participates with RecruitMilitary, attending numerous career fairs
throughout the country. “In addition, we have developed relationships with military-friendly schools and community
colleges to support their student-veteran population,” says Mark J. Szabo, Military Recruiting Program Manager.
Veterans run the Baker Hughes Veterans Resource Group. It has 10 Chapters and 20 satellite groups in the United States.
www.bankofamerica.com/militarysupport
Bank of America (Charlotte, NC): Bank of America is the second-largest
bank holding company in the United States by assets. The corporation employs nearly 10,000 veterans, Reservists
and service members. “We’ve hired more than 4,000 in the last two years and, over the next several years, we’ll
maintain that pace and hire 10,000 into positions throughout the bank,” says O’Hentrice Love, Communications
Manager. The bank participated in about 150 military job fairs in 2014. This year, the bank is rolling out a series
of training for military employees, as well as the people who manage them, to help them adjust to the corporate
setting. The company provides ongoing support through its Military Support and Assistance Group.
www.bennett-hires-vets.com
Bennett International Group (McDonough, GA): With an industry-wide
driver shortage, Bennett plans to tap into military-experienced talent. “Veterans are valuable because of experiences
in transportation, logistics and supply chain management,” says Tana Suggs, Public Relations Specialist. The company
launched a Veteran Hiring Initiative in August 2014. Bennett management and recruiting personnel also began attending
career fairs. Most of Bennett’s drivers are hired as owner operators and work on a contract basis. Currently, Bennett has
more than 2,500 total owner operators, with more than 120 drivers that are self-identified veterans. “No matter where a
veteran or transitioning military person is or will be located after deployment, chances are that Bennett has a terminal
nearby,” Suggs says.
www.bnsf.com/careers
BNSF Railway (Fort Worth, TX): “BNSF Railway hired 1,670 military veterans
in 2014, and approximately 17 percent of the workforce is prior military and/or National Guard/Reservist,” says Caleb
Roberson, Manager, Military Recruiting. Military recruiters travel across the country, conducting military base visits,
military hiring events and attending job fairs. BNSF also recently donated $3 million to the USO and committed to
hiring 5,000 veterans in five years as part of its commitment to the White House’s “Joining Forces” campaign. Paid,
on-the-job training is available for most positions. All locations span the western 28 states. BNSF is the second-largest
freight railroad network in North America and one of seven North American Class I railroads.
www.crengland.me/vets
C.R. England (Salt Lake City, UT): “Trucking company C.R. England recognizes all veterans from
day one as they enter the company with an honored ‘veteran’ ball cap,” says Mike Lynch, Military
Marketing Specialist. “When they complete the 17-day school and two paid over-the-road training
phases, they receive an honored veteran crew shirt and branch-specific decal for their company
truck,” he says. The company has a veterans’ committee that meets monthly. It will continue to host
events on military installations throughout the year. “We will hire over 1,700 veterans this year. We continue to hire over
100 veterans a month and look forward to doubling that in 2015,” Lynch says.
www.caci.com
CACI International Inc. (Arlington, VA): CACI provides information solutions for intelligence,
defense and federal civilian customers. “Last year, 3,544 new hires were veterans,” says Denyse S.
Gordon, Senior Manager. CACI’s Veteran Support & Inclusion office has five dedicated military employment advocates,
plus there is a Veteran Employee Resource Group. Some philanthropic organizations that CACI has supported include
Comfort for America’s Uniformed Services, Project Healing Waters, Final Salute Inc., Operation Second Chance, the
Aleethia Foundation, the Yellow Ribbon Fund, the Wounded Warrior Project, the Armed Forces Retirement Home, and
wreath laying and collection at Arlington National Cemetery. In addition, CACI sponsors several education scholarship
programs for veterans.
www.cae.com
CAE USA (Tampa, FL): CAE USA provides turnkey training solutions and training
support services (such as simulator instruction and maintenance) to Department
of Defense and international military customers. “The company hires military-experienced employees at
corporate headquarters in Tampa, FL, as well as at 21 military site locations,” says Marissa Holdorf, Group
Leader, Human Resources. CAE USA has also expanded recruiting efforts and participated in the 2014 and 2015
MacDill AFB Career Fairs in Tampa. Its Community Involvement Committee has created partnerships in local
communities that support service members. Some projects include Operation Helping Hand, Southeast Guide
Dog Association, Steven Stiller Tunnel to Towers Foundation, Birdies For The Brave and The American Legion.
www.capitalonemilitary.com
Capital One Financial Corp. (McLean, VA): Capital One is an active supporter of the
U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Hiring Our Heroes program and committed $4.5 million
to the effort. “The company’s Military Recruiting program is proactive and multifaceted,” says Chris Giacchi,
Military Recruiting Manager, and Julie Rakes, Corporate Communications. During the past year, Military Network
members have volunteered in mentoring programs and shepherded candidates. Capital One also launched
a Military Skills Translator. The tool uses a custom-designed algorithm to translate military service, pay grade,
Military Occupational Specialty (MOS), Air Force Specialty Code (AFSC), and/or military job titles and makes
recommendations of potential jobs at Capital One that match those skills.
www.capstonecorp.com
Capstone Corp. (Alexandria, VA): “In 2014, 59 percent of new hires at Capstone
Corp. were former military, and we expect that number to increase this year,” says John
J. McNally III, Senior Vice President-Growth. In all, Capstone expects to hire an additional 158 employees with military
backgrounds in the next 12 months. “More significantly, we are proud to manage the Wounded Warrior Program for
our Joint Staff customer, where we are responsible for identifying Wounded Warriors to serve as interns as they reenter the work environment,” McNally adds. Most of Capstone’s work is in support of the Department of Defense and
Department of Homeland Security.
www.schwab-veterans.jobs
Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. (San Francisco, CA): In 2012, Charles Schwab & Co. launched a
strategy to propel veteran hiring called Forward March: Taking the Next Step With Schwab. “It
provides expanded training for Schwab talent advisors to translate military resumes and spot the most
transferrable skills to the company,” says Ryan Kosowsky, Managing Director, Talent Acquisition. The program also
aims to provide training in interviewing for hiring managers and assimilation help for veterans and their supervisors.
The company’s Military Veterans Network is an Employee Resource Group that performs community service and
fundraising activities. The MVN also sponsors “Military Veteran’s Network Career Skills Forums,” where members
assist in preparing resumes for veterans seeking employment.
www.jobs.cn.ca
CN – Rail (Montreal, Quebec): A combination of retirements and growing business means CN
– Rail is looking to replenish its workforce “with talented new railroaders,” says Todd Taylor, Senior Manager, Human
Resources. “A veteran’s ability to work in all types of conditions with a sense of urgency and leadership are skills that
successful railroaders need,” he adds. CN encourages the educational excellence of members of the military. With its
Scholarship program, best-in-class veterans can benefit from a $3,000 grant towards their studies, in addition to the
chance of being selected for an internship with the company. CN – Rail is also a partner of the White House’s Joining
Forces program.
www.csx.com
CSX Corp. (Jacksonville, FL): CSX will add former military in 175 locations throughout
the Eastern United States. “Employees will also be hired in almost all areas of our
organization due to recent mandated federal regulations that call for additional control of our freight trains,”
says Steve Toomey, Talent Advisor, Military Recruiter. In 2014, CSX hired 897 veterans, nearly 26 percent of the
company’s new hires. CSX works with Disabled Veteran Outreach Program Representatives and Local Veteran
Employment Representatives that are attached to each state’s Department of Labor Employment Division or
Employment One-Stop Centers. CSX has a Military Inclusion Group, consisting of a network of employees who
are current National Guard/Reserve or former military members.
www.careers.davita.com/military
DaVita Kidney Care (Denver, CO): Since January 2010, DaVita Kidney Care has hired
more than 2,000 veterans - more than 400 during the past year. “Hires vary, from Patient Care Technicians to the Chief
Development Officer,” says Jennie Lacey, Project Lead Employment Strategy and Branding. DaVita Kidney Care has
receivedtheFreedomAwardfromtheDepartmentofDefense,thehighestrecognitiongiventoemployersforexceptional
support of Guard and Reserve employees. In 2014, the company attended 10 military career fairs and joined the
100,000 Jobs Mission as a representative of health care organizations. In addition, DaVita continues to partner with the
Employer Support for the Guard and Reserve and Military Spouse Employment Partnership.
www.deloitte.com/us
Deloitte LLP (New York, NY): Deloitte employs more than 1,000 former military personnel, with nearly threequarters employed in its Federal Practice arena. Deloitte’s Armed Forces Business Resource Group also provides
development and networking opportunities. “Once veterans join the Deloitte family, our focus shifts to turning
their skills into business talents. Through our Veteran Practitioner Program, veterans are paired with experienced
practitioners of similar backgrounds,” says David Coyle, Senior Consultant. To support retention and provide a sense
of community, Deloitte created the Armed Forces Business Resource Group. And its Military Leave Policy offers
supplemental payment of salary and benefits continuance for those called back to active duty.
www.devonenergy.com
Devon Energy (Oklahoma City, OK): In 2014, Devon Energy raised the bar for
hiring veterans to seven percent. “We currently sit at nine percent,” says Adam Ward,
Recruiter, Military Affairs. Devon became a member of the Military Spouse Employment
Partnership in 2013 and added applicable tracking programs for spouses in 2014. Retention efforts include full
pay for deployed members for the first three months of activation and differential pay for the following nine. All
deployed employees receive full benefits for one year. The company holds multiple military appreciation events
at games for Oklahoma City’s minor league teams. It also attends Service Academy Career Conferences and
multiple military career fairs, and holds in-house workshops for veteran talent.
www.domino-printing.com
Domino Amjet, Inc. (Gurnee, IL): “In hiring for technical roles, Domino has
found that military employees have the skills to learn equipment quickly,” says
Witney Rightler, Human Resources Supervisor. “The majority of the roles targeted with military experienced talent
are in our Service department. Domino plans to create new jobs for Field Technicians in 2015,” Rightler says. In 2014,
26 percent of all new hires were military and 11 percent of employees were veterans. Domino’s Corporate Trainer is a
Reservist who helps new military hires. All new Field Technicians go through three to six weeks of training to learn
specific technologies. They also “shadow” another technician before they start doing their own calls.
www.eaton.com/militarycareers
Eaton (Cleveland, OH): Eaton focuses specific attention and resources to two
specific military populations: Junior Military Officers and transitioning military
professionals. “The corporation participates at career fairs at the Service Academy Career Conference, Military
MOJO, Corporate Gray, Navy Nuclear Power Officer Career Conference and base/post sponsored events,” says George
Bernloehr, Senior Military Talent Acquisition Consultant. Eaton also has launched a Veterans Employee Resource
Group. In addition, it deployed a Military Talent Scout Network, which assists transitioning veterans with resources
and support as they start their careers and educates managers about the military. In 2014, veteran hires equaled 6.7
percent of Eaton’s new U.S. hires.
careers.edwardjones.com
Edward Jones (St. Louis, MO): Hiring veterans is ingrained in Edward Jones’ history,
stemming from the tenets of founder Edward D. Jones who served in the Navy in World War
I. In 2012, the company introduced a first-of-its-kind program featuring tailored training, mentoring and a structured
compensation package for the unique needs of veterans. “FORCES tailored training has been found to be conducive to
military veterans’ learning style and provides them with an added advantage when they open their branch,” says John
Boul, Global Media Relations Manager. At the start of 2014, Edward Jones set a target hiring figure of 450 veterans and
ended up hiring 471 by the end of the year.
www.lilly.com/Pages/home.aspx
Eli Lilly and Company (Indianapolis, IN): Eli Lilly is the only major U.S. pharmaceutical
company founded by a U.S. military veteran. The company takes a number of proactive steps to
recruit veterans, including attending military career fairs and participating in the Operation Hire
a Hoosier Vet event. Eli Lilly is also a partner with Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve/Indiana Army National
Guard Employment Coordination Program. Eli Lilly’s Veterans Leadership Network sponsors an event called Boss Lift.
The program gives supervisors and senior leaders the opportunity to experience military service through simulation
and experiential learning. In addition, the company offers specific training for members of employee resource groups
to assist in training and retaining veterans.
go.enterpriseholdings.com/career-home.html
Enterprise Holdings (St. Louis, MO): Enterprise’s commitment to the military goes
back nearly six decades. The company is named after the USS Enterprise, an aircraft
carrier on which the company founder, Jack Taylor, served during World War II. In 2013,
nearly 2,000 veterans and Reservists launched careers with the company. Last year,
the company updated its military recruitment website with content from current employees who are veterans. More
than 10 percent of all employees are veterans. Enterprise also has an online internal resource group for employees with
military experience. It has developed training tools about recruiting the military for its talent acquisition team and
hiring managers.
www.epestransport.com
Epes Transport System Inc. (Greensboro, NC): Army veteran Eddison Cyrus, a
Driver Recruiter at Epes Transport System Inc., says the company culture reflects
military values of “high morale, integrity and selfless service.” He adds, “Epes is constantly creating opportunities
for myself as well as other employees to go further in whatever career path that they may choose.” Epes offers
an apprenticeship program, in which veterans can receive on-the-job training while receiving G.I. Bill benefits.
“Our goal last year was to increase our veteran hires, and we succeeded by a 50 percent-plus growth,” says
Melissa Nishan, Director of Recruiting. In 2012, six percent of hires were veterans; by 2013, that number had
jumped to 12 percent.
www.exeloncorp.com/careers
Exelon Corp. (Chicago, IL): Exelon, one of the largest competitive U.S. power
generators, also has a powerful outreach to veterans. “The company has 18 sites
approved for the On-The-Job Training Program, which allows veterans to learn a trade or skill,” says Griffin Goldin,
Senior Analyst, National and Strategic Programs. In 2014, Exelon attended 47 military recruiting events, and the
company plans to increase the number of events it attends this year. Exelon also targets military candidates for the
Cornerstone Program, a comprehensive developmental training initiative for leadership personnel. The company’s
military employee resource group, Exelon Militaries Actively Connected, was instrumental in acquiring more than 10
percent of new hires with military backgrounds in 2014.
www.fdmgroup.com
FDM Group (New York, NY): “FDM Group finds that a large number of veterans possess a
high aptitude for Information Technology,” says Monica Hogan, U.S. Marketing Team Lead. In
the FDM Academy, veterans quickly learn and adapt to the technical systems and programs used by a large number of
FDM clients. Once trained, employees go onsite with clients nationwide. FDM worked closely with the VA to review
training curriculum. As a result, eligible veterans are able to use generous education support benefits (including
their G.I. Bill) while receiving intensive IT training. FDM sponsors organizations that include the United War
Veterans Council, Veterans on Wall Street, Army Week and Wall Street Rocks for the Veterans.
www.frontier.com
Frontier Communications (Stamford, CT):
“Frontier Bootcamp is Frontier
Communications’ specific training for all Human Resources, recruiters and hiring managers
when it comes to bringing veterans on board,” says Gregg Barratt, AVP, Veterans Affairs. Thirteen percent of Frontier’s
workforce is former military. “In recruiting, we emphasize our three pillars for Veterans Affairs: Recruitment and
Retention, Veteran Recognition, and Veteran Community Engagement,” he says. The company supports veteran
employees with a veteran intern program, a veteran mentoring program (matching new employees with existing
Frontier veterans) and a work-at-home program for veterans and military spouses for customer service roles. Frontier
received numerous ESGR awards throughout 2014 and is a member of the 100,000 Jobs Mission.
www.g4s.us
G4S Secure Solutions (USA) Inc. (Jupiter, FL): G4S Secure Solutions offers expertise
in analyzing security needs for its clients. “As such, the company has over 110 field offices
across the United States and they all actively recruit military personnel daily,” says May
Zelner, Manager, Field Training Services. Twenty-six percent of the workforce is former military, and the company
has hired more than 15,800 veterans since its commitment to the White House’s Joining Forces initiative in
August 2011. In addition, about 42 percent of the company’s “Custom Protection Officers,” who are an elite group
that have completed intensive training, are veterans. Veterans can also tap the G4S Military Community, which
offers networking opportunities and mentoring support.
www.ge.com/veterans
GE (Fairfield, CT): GE has a long-standing tradition of hiring military talent and made a
public commitment to hire 1,000 veterans per year for five years (between 2012-2016). It offers a
GE Veterans Network, which helps with the transition into the GE culture. GE is also known for
its world-class Junior Officer Leadership Program, a two-year rotational program that provides
structured training and mentoring support to participants. They are immersed into a business through three
rotations lasting eight months each. “The company also supports organizations such as the USO, DAV, ACP,
Hiring our Heroes and Ride to Recovery,” says Kris Urbauer, GE Program Manager, Military Recruiting and
Junior Officer Leadership Program.
www.groendyke.com/careers/military
Groendyke Transport (Enid, OK): “Groendyke Transport hauls and handles highly volatile
products, so it takes a special type of individual possessing discipline, attention to detail and
composure under pressure and stress. These characteristics align extremely well with our military
personnel,” says Becky Hodgen, Communications and Brand Manager. Twenty-eight percent of total new hires in 2014
were veterans. Their CEO, John D. Groendyke, is a former Army CPT. Through various partnerships, including the
Chamber Foundation’s Heroes to Hire, Groendyke attends military job fairs and has brought on new managers. The
company also sends a Christmas tree and wreaths to all immediate families of employees who are serving on a base
stateside or who are deployed.
www.halfaker.com
Halfaker and Associates, LLC (Arlington, VA): President Barack Obama recently
appointed Dawn Halfaker, CEO of Halfaker and Associates, to the USO Board of
Governors. She is a retired Army CPT and combat wounded veteran who started her
government contracting company in 2006. “Hiring veterans has always been a priority for her,” says Tammi Cockerham,
Senior Technical Recruiter. One resource that the company uses to locate veterans is the Wounded Warrior Project,
where Dawn Halfaker is a board member. Halfaker has also developed a Wounded Warrior Transition Program, which
has an important mentoring component. “Halfaker identifies certain positions within the company that would offer a
Wounded Warrior the challenging career they desire,” Cockerham says.
www.hiltonworldwide.com/militarycareers
Hilton Worldwide (McLean, VA): Operation: Opportunity is Hilton
Worldwide’s commitment to hire 10,000 veterans, spouses and dependents by
the end of 2018. “The travel and tourism industry is predicted to add 1.3 million jobs by 2020, and veterans possess the
unique skills necessary for success in the hospitality sector,” says Melissa Stirling, Director of Military Programs. So far,
Hilton Worldwide has hired more than 4,000 veterans. In 2014, Hilton embarked on a Military Program Kickoff Tour to
spread the word about workplace opportunities. “These aren’t just career fairs; they’re opportunities to find out specific
details about open positions (and) talk to hiring managers,” Stirling says. Hilton also has a Veterans Team Member
Resource Group with nearly 300 team members in 164 locations.
www.jobs.net/jobs/humana-veterans
Humana Inc. (Louisville, KY): “Humana has a strong history of hiring
veterans and their spouses. Many veterans also hold executive positions,”
says James Tongate, Veteran Recruiter. To recruit, Humana maintains relationships with local veteran employment
representatives, National Guard & Reserve Units, Military TAP programs, colleges with Student Veteran groups,
professional military organizations, ESGR and Veteran Service Organizations. Humana also has a Veterans Network
Resource Group, which provides professional development opportunities such as resume writing skills and leadership
coaching, plus community volunteer opportunities like placing flags on graves of Veterans for Memorial Day. In
addition, it provides mentorship to newly hired veterans and military spouses.
www.intel.com/go/veterans
Intel Corp. (Santa Clara, CA): “All new veteran employees are offered Veteran Transition
Resources training, which assists their transition to civilian work,” says Kim McLaughlin, Marketing
Manager, External Relations. The company also offers an American Veterans at Intel Employee
Resource Group. Among its activities, the group assists Intel in recruiting veterans and offers supervisors training
on how to best manage a veteran. Intel has more than 3,900 self-identified veteran employees. Intel attends several
recruiting events, including military base career fairs, Hiring Our Heroes career fairs, state workforce employment
agency veteran-focused career fairs, Marine for Life, Soldier for Life and the Veteran MBA career fair. In addition, Intel
sources veterans at college campuses.
www.jdogjunkremoval.com
JDog Franchises, LLC (Berwyn, PA): “JDog Franchises is an exclusively veteran-branded
company and the only franchise concept for veterans and family members,” says Erika Land,
Administrator. “Because of this, we have extremely high visibility in the market. People want to
know who we are, and they talk about us,” Land says. The company is part of Greater Philadelphia
Veterans Network, AMVETS, Military Connections and Veterans Hired. Wayne Turner, Regional Director of Operations
and retired CW3, is the point of contact for new veterans. The company also has a MajGen from the U.S. Marine Corps on
its Board of Directors. Seventy percent of new hires in the past year were veterans.
www.johnsoncontrols.com
Johnson Controls (Milwaukee, WI): Employees at Johnson Controls create products and
services to optimize energy and operational efficiencies of buildings, lead-acid automotive
batteries and advanced batteries for hybrid and electric vehicles, and interior systems for automobiles. “Veterans are
needed for everything ranging from IT and engineering positions, to supply chain management, to accounting,”
says Ray A. Cuttino, Military Recruiting Program Specialist. The company is developing a guide covering the hiring,
onboarding and training of veterans. Last year, veterans made up 9.8 percent of all new hires. The company’s recruiting
approach includes using military placement firms, attending career fairs and maintaining a presence at TAP/ACAP on
military bases.
www.kccmaterials.com
Kenny Construction Company (Northbrook, IL): “Veterans possess an ability
to think through complications and develop solutions,” says Dan Kobyra, Kenny
Construction Logistics Manager. Their contribution has allowed Kenny to “rise to the top of the Material Management
industry,” Kobyra says. Within the construction industry, many positions require certifications, degrees or years of
industry experience to even get a foot in the door for interviews. The Logistics Solutions Team at Kenny Construction
Company has established an on-the-job training process to convert veterans’ knowledge from active duty to the
construction industry. “We recognize the experience, intelligence and hardworking attitudes of veterans and give them
the opportunity to learn the industry with our Logistics Solutions Team,” Kobyra says.
www.kraftcareers.com/veterans
Kraft Foods Group (Northfield, IL): Kraft Foods, in business since 1903, has been hiring veterans
for decades, but it stepped up its efforts in recent years. “We have grown our internal education
of employees to understand how military experience adds value to our team. We have increased our new employee
veteran hiring from 2.1 percent in 2011 to six percent in 2014. We are also researching new and creative ways to attract
and train both veterans and spouses,” says Tim Corrigan, Veteran Employment Outreach. In 2014, Kraft launched a
company-wide Veteran Employee Resource Group, signed the ESGR Statement of Support, joined MSEP and worked
with veteran representatives in the states where it has a presence.
www.lq.com/military
La Quinta Inns & Suites (Irving, TX): La Quinta Inns & Suites has created an enterprise-wide
approach to embracing the military, specifically military families. “Encompassing six pillars,
our effort starts with hiring veterans, military spouses and caregivers,” says Derek Blake, Vice
President, Marketing & Military Programs. La Quinta focuses on providing portable jobs and careers for military
families while also offering flexibility and advancement opportunities. With more than 850 locations, the La Quinta
Talent Acquisition team participates in U.S. Chamber Hiring Our Heroes Job Fairs and Military Spouse Employment
Partnership’s Networking Events and Spouse-Specific Hiring Fairs, conducting interviews on-site during the fairs.
Each year for the past three years, the company has more than doubled military hires.
www.leidos.com
Leidos (Reston, VA): Employees at science and technology company Leidos support vital missions for the
government and commercial sectors. They defend the nation’s digital and physical infrastructure from “new world”
threats. Veterans have a focused, mission-oriented mindset, which allows them to “hit the ground running and provide
an immediate impact to the program’s effectiveness and mission execution,” says Michael Bruni, Talent Acquisition
Manager, Mission Support Group. Fifteen percent of employees are veterans. “We participate in over 100 transition
events annually and participate in military events and job fairs where we touch hundreds of veterans each month,” he
says. During the past six years, Leidos has participated in more than 1,100 events.
www.level3.com
Level 3 Communications (Broomfield, CO): Level 3 Communications is hiring veterans into its Operations Tech
Academy and IP Technical Academy. “Currently, we are aiming for inclusion of 30 percent military veteran hires in
our 2015 classes,” says Amy Dietrich Director, Organization Development & Effectiveness. Veterans who enter the
Ops Tech Academy prepare for roles within North American Operations in the areas of Field Operations, Planning,
Access Management, Managed Services, Service Management, Media Operations and Service Delivery. Level 3
recruits directly at selected bases and also attends military recruiting events through the recruit military network. The
company is a partner of Direct Employers, Recruit Military, LeaderQuest and several Veteran Service Organizations.
www.lockheedmartinjobs.com/military.aspx
Lockheed Martin Corp. (Bethesda, MD): Global security and aerospace company Lockheed Martin has
extensive veteran outreach, with longstanding partnerships with such organizations as Employment Partnership
of the Armed Forces, Army Partnership for Youth Success and the Military Spouse Employer Partnership,
among others. “It has redesigned a content-rich website for transitioning veterans and has enhanced a military
skills translator to help veterans find appropriate positions,” says Teri Matzkin, Manager, Military Relations and
Strategic Sourcing. Military Relations Managers attend approximately 200 military hiring events nationwide.
In 2014, the corporation held its third annual enterprise-wide Military Veterans Leadership Forum, in which
veteran senior leaders from all parts of the enterprise met to drive veteran-related projects.
www.mantech.com
ManTech International Corp. (Fairfax, VA): In January 2013, Humana hired
1,000 additional veterans and military spouses. Total hires since the company’s
original commitment in August 2011 reached 1,593 by the end of 2013, says Jay Brethen, Talent Acquisition,
Veteran & Military Spouse Programs. Humana attended the December 2013 national conference for the
Student Veterans of America. “Our current area of focus is to attend Student Veteran Chapter engagements
and invite them to military career events within our business markets,” Brethen says. Humana is a winner
of the Secretary of Defense’s Employee Support of the Guard, Reserve Freedom Award for 2013, and was a
finalist in 2012.
www.mmc.com/join-us/overview.html
Marsh & McLennan Companies (New York, NY): “Marsh & McLennan Companies wants to hire 500 veterans by
2016,”saysEdwardDunn,DirectorofMilitary&VeteransAffairs.ThecompanyhasgrownitsVeteranColleagueResource
Group to more than 250 members in less than two years. New employees joining the group are assigned a “buddy” peer
advisor.Thecompanyisputtingastrategyinplacetobecomeoneofthetopmilitaryhiringprogramsinthecountrybased
onDunn’sexperienceoverthelastseveralyearswhenhewasbuildingthe100,000JobsMissionforJPMorgan.Withannual
revenues of $13 billion, the global professional services firm offers solutions in risk and strategy in more than 130 countries.
www.nabors.com
Nabors (Houston, TX and Hamilton, Bermuda): Nabors owns and operates the world’s largest land-based
drilling rig fleet and has one of the largest well-servicing rig fleets in North America. “The company is working
to partner with over 200 military transition offices nationwide,” says R.J. Maggard, Program Manager, Talent
Acquisition. Prior to a hiring event, Nabors is researching and targeting the local military population. “Hiring
managers will attend events with the program recruiters, which allows the ability to conduct on the spot
interviews and extend job offers,” he says. Nabors has corporate policies in place supporting the National Guard
and Reserve related to drill and deployment requirements.
www.navyfederal.org/about/careers.php
Navy Federal Credit Union (Vienna, VA): For nearly 82 years, Navy Federal has employed military-experienced
talent to serve its military members. Its 257 branches are primarily near a high concentration of military personnel.
In 2014, Navy Federal participated in numerous job fairs, including Hiring our Heroes Job Fairs and the Warriors to
the Workforce Hiring Fair, both in Washington, DC. Navy Federal is one of the first 30 organizations to partner with
the Military Spouse Employment Partnership to help spouses from all branches find jobs. Navy Federal also offers
various career development and educational programs, including The Executive Development Program, a two-year
curriculum to develop employees for senior level positions.
www.novonordisk-clayton.com
Novo Nordisk Pharmaceutical Industries Inc. (Clayton, NC): With world headquarters in
Denmark, Novo Nordisk Pharmaceutical Industries has more than 90 years of leadership in
diabetes care. It also has leading positions in hemophilia care, growth hormone therapy and
hormone replacement therapy. Many Process Maintenance Technicians are veterans. “We have
found their mechanical and electrical background is extremely beneficial,” says Michelle Norris, Talent Acquisition
Coordinator. In 2014, 27 percent of new hires had veteran status. Novo Nordisk provides military leave for active
duty reserves and has supported employees who faced deployment. The company attends many career fairs and
has also participated in the Capital Area Workforce Development Board Military Round Table.
www.ryder.com/career/military-recruiting.aspx
Ryder System, Inc. (Miami, FL): Ryder provides transportation and supply chain management products and
is especially known for its fleet of rental trucks. “We’re hiring veterans as diesel mechanics, CDL truck drivers,
logistics managers, customer service coordinators and various warehouse positions,” says Patrick Pendergast,
Senior Director, Talent Acquisition. The company participates in the Hiring Our Heroes campaign and has pledged to
hire 2,000 additional veterans by the end of 2017. In addition, it created a resource page for veterans who still require
their CDL and partnered with FastPort.com to mentor service members. “We also are working hard to hire more
female veterans in 2015, including partnering with Women in Trucking.Org,” Pendergast says.
www.Safeway.com/careers
Safeway (Pleasanton, CA): JA combination of classroom, independent study and on-the-job
training prepares veterans for careers in Safeway’s retail environment. “From our stores to our
corporate headquarters, and with positions ranging from Store Management to IT to Manufacturing to
Distribution, we offer location transfer availability and careers that build your skills and your future,”
says Evan Proctor, Senior Military Recruiter. Proctor himself started with Safeway in 2012 as an NCO 1 Assistant
Manager and was steadily promoted to military recruiter. JMOs and NCOs go through a six-to-nine-month training
program and are paired with skilled mentors. Once they complete their paid training, they are promoted into the
role for which they were hired.
www.schneiderjobs.com
Schneider (Green Bay, WI): “From traditional over the road routes to
opportunities in the Regional, Dedicated, Bulk Chemical, Expedited/Team and Intermodal areas, Schneider
plans to hire more than 25 percent of its drivers in 2015 from the veteran population,” says Janet Bonkowski,
PR Manager. The company is a key partner with the ARMY EPO, PaYS, ESGR and the VETBIZ organizations,
and is also involved in Marine For Life programs and the 100,000 Jobs Mission. By the end of 2015, Schneider
plans to add more than 800 veterans into Schneider’s VA-approved Apprenticeship Program. This is a unique,
collaborative program with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs that provides on-the-job-training while
veterans tap their G.I. Bill benefits.
www.southerncompany.com/military
Southern Company (Atlanta, GA): Southern Company, an electric utility holding
company, actively recruits veterans for jobs at new and existing company facilities. “Those include a cutting-edge
integrated gasification combined cycle plant under construction in Kemper County, MS, and the new nuclear power
units in development outside of Augusta, GA,” says Linda Sykes, Military Programs Specialist. Southern Company
annually participates in more than 30 military recruitment events, and through the Military Veterans in Power
employee resource group, the company provides support to veterans. Seventeen percent of new hires in 2015 are
veterans, Reservists or National Guard members. Southern Company is a founding partner of the Troops to Energy
Jobs program, which tells veterans about energy jobs.
www.southwest.com/html/about-southwest/careers/index.html
Southwest Airlines (Dallas, TX): Southwest Airlines operates more than 3,400 flights per day and has
scheduled service to 93 destinations across the United States. “We hire for all of these locations, as well as for
our corporate positions at our Headquarters in Dallas,” says Tina Clanton, Senior Corporate Recruiter/Military
Recruiting. The company partners with the ArmyPaYS program, Marines for Life, ESGR and the Texas Veterans
Commission and attends Hiring Our Heroes events/job fairs and Military MOJO job fairs and focus groups.
This year, the company will target veterans to participate in its Emerging Leadership Development Program.
Southwest also has a Manager in Training Program, plus numerous other opportunities at a state-of-the-art
training facility.
www.sprint.jobs/content/military
Sprint (Overland Park, KS): In 2014, the Secretary of Defense nominated Sprint for the
Employer Support Freedom Award, given to employers for support of National Guard and
Reserve employees. “Sprint employs more than 1,500 veterans,” says Summer Dean, Talent Acquisition Supervisor.
Sprint’s involvement in national military organizations such as Business Executives for National Security and Association of
the United States Army helps the company stay connected with potential future employees. Sprint’s employee resource
group called VETS - Veterans and Employees helping others Through Sprint - has more than 940 active members.
One of their notable programs is the Deployed Associates Committee, which gathers feedback from associates after
deployments about their experience with Sprint’s support.
www.sunbeltrentals.com
Sunbelt Rentals (Fort Mill, SC): “Sunbelt Rentals focuses on attracting military service
members by being where they are,” says Shawn Leo, Regional Recruiting Manager. The
company attends workshops on base and assists transition teams. It attends career fairs
through multiple organizations nationwide and partners with the Wounded Warrior
Project/Warriors to Work program. Sunbelt created “SBR Veteran Spotlight on Success,” which highlights the
success of a veteran employee each month. Sunbelt Rentals, one of the largest equipment rental companies in
the nation, offers clients an extensive $4 billion equipment fleet for construction, power generation and other
jobs. New hires work with a seasoned professional, gaining knowledge to be successful in their position.
www.geogroup.com/hiringheroes
The GEO Group, Inc. (Boca Raton, FL): Veteran hiring at The GEO Group, Inc. has steadily
risen since in the past four years, from 481 hires in 2011 to 717 hires in 2014. “GEO is rapidly growing, so the prospect
for veterans to be hired is excellent,” says Gina Larsen Manager, HR and Marketing. A Military Job Translator on GEO’s
website allows Veterans to plug in their current rank/title and receive a matching job for their current position. The
company also posts jobs on more than 20 veteran-specific websites and attends eight or more military recruiting events
yearly. The GEO Group, Inc. specializes in the design, financing, development and operation of correctional, detention
and community re-entry facilities around the globe.
www.tmctrans.com
TMC Transportation (Des Moines, IA): TMC Transportation is an industry leader for its training and onboarding
process. Since 2008, it has offered a two-year, VA-approved Education Apprenticeship. “Our program is longer than
many in our industry, allowing veterans an easier transition into their new civilian career,” says Cheryl Freauff, Driver
Recruiting Manager. In 2014, veterans made up 37 percent of new hires; they are 33 percent of the entire workforce.
Eighty percent of job openings are for Class A Drivers. TMC is a partner of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Hiring Our
Heroes Program. It attends various military job fairs throughout the county. TMC supports veterans’ organizations
such as Wounded Warriors and Toys for Tots.
www.triplecanopy.com
Triple Canopy, Inc. (Reston, VA): Founded by U.S. Special Forces veterans, Triple Canopy
provides mission support, security and training services in support of the U.S. federal
government in high-risk, complex locations throughout the world. “Due to the challenging scope of work we perform,
Triple Canopy will continue to seek military-experienced talent in 2015 to exceed the required expectations of the U.S.
government,” says Katy Pultz, Communications Manager. Sixty-two percent of new hires in 2014 were veterans. Former
military personnel are in key leadership positions across the organization. Triple Canopy utilizes many recruiting
efforts to attract veterans, including working with the Army Career and Alumni Program.
www.ussecurityassociates.com
U.S. Security Associates, Inc. (Roswell, GA): U.S. Security Associates (USA) is a national security
company founded by a formal naval officer and is one of America’s fastest growing security companies
with revenues increasing from $900 million to $1.3 billion over the last three years. “Staffing requirements
at each office are constantly fluctuating as we continue to grow,” says Ginger Dillard, Marketing Manager. In 2014,
the company attended eight RecruitMilitary job fairs and assorted Hiring Our Heroes and Military Spouse job fairs,
sponsored by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. The company has hired a record number of veterans since launching its
“Recruiting America’s Brave” military hiring campaign in 2012.
www.UP.jobs
Union Pacific (Omaha, NE): Following the Civil War, thousands of veterans
helped build the first transcontinental railroad for Union Pacific. Today, veterans
still play a key role. “One in five employees has military experience,” says Amanda Treiber, Sr. Marketing Specialist.
Recruiting efforts involve a high-touch and high-tech approach. A recently revamped website uses tools such as
Military Skills Translators and Notify Me options so candidates are alerted when specific positions or locations they
select are available. Recruiters attend everything from Hiring Our Heroes to TAP events. Virtual career fairs also allow
for chatting about opportunities, even if soldiers are deployed. In 2014, 28 percent of total hires were veterans.
www.unitedrentals.com/en/our-company/careers/military-veterans
United Rentals, Inc. (Stamford, CT): “More than 1,300 veteran employees possess skills needed by United Rentals,
which provides construction equipment rentals,” says Laura Zattola, Director, Human Resources, Corporate Operations.
The company offers a groundbreaking veteran work-study program - Service to Employment Program - for Service
Technicians. Intensivetechnicaltraininglasts10to12weeks,andsuccessfulgraduatesareofferedpositions.UnitedRentalshas
also participated in the Be a Hero virtual career fair, sponsored by Hire Disability solutions. Company policies comply with
the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act of 1994 and other applicable federal, state or local
laws. The company sponsors Educated Canines Assisting with Disabilities, which focuses on providing extraordinary
dogs to injured veterans.
www.phoenix.edu/mil
University of Phoenix (Tempe, AZ): “With advisors that speak the same language, University of Phoenix military
students feel understood as they work towards their educational goals,” says Andrea Woods, Marketing Manager, and
Brian Weaver, Senior Manager, Talent Acquisition. In 2014, University of Phoenix opened additional military-specific
positions in San Diego to better align with San Diego’s military population. Military-experienced employees may also
be hired at select University of Phoenix campus locations in 36 states. The university has worked with the Severely
Injured Veterans Program (encompassing Operation Comfort in Texas; Soldier’s Angels in Northern California; Armed
Forces Foundation in Washington, DC; and Heroes to Hometowns in Arizona). Full-tuition scholarships were awarded
to severely injured veterans.
www.aecom.com
URS, an AECOM Company (Los Angeles, CA): URS, a leading provider of engineering, construction
and technical services, is now part of AECOM. With nearly 100,000 people in more than 150 countries, the
merged corporation has the ability “to deliver more capabilities to more veterans around the world,” says
Kenneth L. Reese, Director, Talent Acquisition. Reese is also a retired Army MSG. Whenever possible, the
corporation assigns newly hired veterans to mentors, including connecting mentors to those with known
physical and mental health disabilities. It also provides training opportunities that are equitably accessible
to disabled veterans. Finally, a Veteran Recruiting Team establishes partnerships with local Department of
Labor Veteran Representatives and Military Transition Offices throughout the country.
www.usaajobs.com
USAA (San Antonio, TX): “Like his predecessors, new USAA CEO Stuart Parker, an Air
Force veteran, has made military hiring a top priority,” says Mike Kelly, Executive Director,
Military Advocacy. A mutual insurance company for military members, USAA has grown to
more than 27,000 employees, 24 percent of whom are veterans. In 2014, more than 30 percent of all hires
were veterans and military spouses. Besides attending more than 50 military hiring events, USAA also visits
the Warrior and Family Support Center at Ft. Sam Houston, Texas. Recruiters brief transitioning wounded
warriors about job searches. The company has a successful “cohort program,” in which it trains groups of
veterans and spouses who serve together.
www.werner.com
Werner Enterprises (Omaha, NE): Werner Enterprises is a freight carrier and transportation and logistics
company. In conjunction with the White House, Werner pledged to hire 1,000 Veterans each year for five
continuous years starting in 2012. In December 2014, Werner met and exceeded this goal, having hired 5,109
veterans. About 20 percent of the workforce is veterans. “Werner established the very first apprenticeship
program in its industry that focuses on veterans,” says Rick Buchholz, Government Hiring Manager. Eligible
veterans who have G.I. Bill benefits can receive up to $14,215.20 of their tax-free benefits in addition to their
Werner pay. More than 45 corporate Werner Associates are trained to recruit and hire veterans.
www.westgateresorts.com/careers
Westgate Resorts (Orlando, FL): Westgate Resorts has former military personnel at all levels including
C-level executives, resort management, information technology professionals, engineering, call center
leaders, sales and marketing. “In fact, our Chief Operating Officer is a retired Air Force Officer, and both our
Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer are former military,” says Clint Boldt, Executive Director
of Team Member Services Field Operations. In 2014, Westgate participated in a variety of military job fairs,
and 3.4 percent of new hires had military experience. The company has given more than 2,000 free vacations
in the past two years to soldiers who have served in Iraq and Afghanistan. Westgate has also donated to
charities for wounded warriors.
www.whelansecurity.com
Whelan Security (St. Louis, MO): Whelan Security is one of a handful of companies in the contract
security industry that has significant experience servicing critical U.S. infrastructures. “Veterans and their
experience are valued where the company is responsible for security operations and major contingency
planning agreements,” says Mark Porterfield, Senior Vice President and Chief Security Officer. Whelan
maintains a partnership with Employer Support for Guard and Reserves and is registered with the Army
Career Alumni Program. Local branches partner with military bases, military career fairs and/or career
centers to attract talent. Whelan recruiters participated in a social media campaign in December 2014
specifically targeting members of the National Guard and Reserve Units.
www.xcelenergy.com/Company/Careers
Xcel Energy (Minneapolis, MN): In 2014, Xcel Energy, a major electric and natural gas company, signed a
National Statement of Support with the ESGR. It participated in more than 30 veteran-specific job fairs across
the country, connecting with more than 4,000 job seekers and more than 1,400 veteran applicants. “We also
implemented a robust social media marketing strategy to engage veterans all over the country,” says Kynnie
Martin, Senior Recruiter, Veterans and Diversity (Martin was named a 2014 winner of the “Top 40 Under
40 Military” by CivilianJobs.com). Xcel Energy has implemented training for transitioning veterans using
curriculum called “Bring Your A Game to Work,” which teaches veterans about their corporate culture.