The unemployment rate for veterans is the lowest it has ever been since September 2001, and it continuing to fall. This achievement is due in part to the employers who have made a commitment to hire those who have served in our armed forces.
In advance of Veterans Day, job site Monster worked with a panel of veteran hiring experts and Military.com to gather a list of the 10 best companies for veterans. All of the companies in the top 10 employed at least 15 percent veterans.
Evan Guzman, founder of The MiLBRAND Project, which helps companies attract and retain veteran hires, says the reason that companies love to hire veterans is because of the values that military service instills in them.
“Veterans are loyal, resilient, possess a strong work ethic and are masters of teamwork,” he says. “Companies, especially the nominees and winners on our list, know that veterans bring advanced experience in meeting mission objectives and will adapt those skills into their jobs.”
Read on to see Monster’s list of the 10 best companies for veterans:
10. Boeing
Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois
Percentage of 2017 hires who are vets: 15 percent
Percentage of workforce who are vets: 15 percent
Monster’s company description: “Boeing is the world’s largest aerospace company and leading manufacturer of commercial jetliners and defense, space and security systems. Their products include commercial and military aircraft, satellites, weapons, electronic and defense systems, launch systems, advanced information and communication systems, and performance-based logistics and training.”
How they support veteran employees: Boeing’s veteran hire retention rate in 2016 was 92 percent and the Boeing Military & Veteran Engagement Team (BMVET) integrates Boeing’s efforts within the military and veterans communities. Boeing is a frequent sponsor of Veterans in Aerospace Symposium and the Veterans Transition Initiative.
9. Union Pacific Railroad
Headquarters: Omaha, Nebraska
Percentage of 2017 hires who are vets: 20 percent
Percentage of workforce who are vets: 17.5 percent
Monster’s company description: “Union Pacific Railroad is North America’s premier railroad franchise, covering 23 states across the western two-thirds of the United States.”
How they support veteran employees: Union Pacific hosts regional Military Leadership Hiring programs to place vets in management positions and sponsors UPVETS, which provides support, networking and mentorships to veteran employees. The company has a 61 percent veteran retention rate.
8. BAE Systems
Headquarters: Arlington, Virginia
Percentage of 2017 hires who are vets: 21 percent
Percentage of workforce who are vets: 16.5 percent
Monster’s company description: “BAE is an international defense, aerospace and security company that delivers a full range of products and services for air, land and naval forces, as well as advanced electronics, security, information technology solutions and customer support services.”
How they support veteran employees: BAE aims to hire 100 veterans a month in 2018, with an emphasis on female veteran hiring. Their Warrior Integration Program focuses on integrating combat-wounded veterans into the workforce through on-boarding, mentoring, and career development. The CEO of BAE Systems recognizes 5,000 veteran employees a year for their accomplishments and contributions to the company.
