The Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development (DWD) has recognized 22 employers for their exceptional efforts in hiring and supporting veterans and their families, awarding them the Vets Ready Employer designation for 2024. These employers have gone above and beyond what is required to provide meaningful employment opportunities for veterans.
Large employers receiving gold certifications include notable names such as 4imprint Inc. in Oshkosh, Del Monte Foods Inc. in Plover, Deloitte LLP in Madison, Frank Beverage Group in Middleton, Goodwill Industries of North Central Wisconsin in Menasha, Kimberly-Clark Corp. in Neenah, Menasha Corp. in Neenah, Moraine Park Vocational and Technical College in Fond du Lac, Oshkosh Corp. in Oshkosh, Rockwell Automation in Milwaukee, TDS Telecom in Madison, U.S. Venture Inc. in Appleton, UW Health in Middleton, and We Energies in Milwaukee.
“Veterans have given so much in service to our country and often face challenges when returning home, including securing family-supporting employment,” said DWD Secretary Amy Pechacek. “Veterans bring invaluable experience to the workplace, and these employers have shown outstanding commitment to hiring and engaging veterans.”
Additionally, the silver certification honors went to Old Wisconsin Sausage Co. in Sheboygan, Superior Water Light and Power, Waupaca Foundry Inc., and Xcel Energy in Eau Claire.
Gold certifications in the medium and small business categories were also awarded, with Worthington Cylinders in Chilton recognized for large medium-sized business, while MCC Inc. in Appleton, Northwood Technical College in Rice Lake, and Precision Iceblast Corp. in Peshtigo were honored in the small business category.
UW Health Chief Nurse Executive Rudy Jackson shared his personal experience, noting the fulfillment he feels in bringing capable veterans into the workforce. “It’s incredibly gratifying to bring veterans into our workforce where they can use their skills to help our patients,” said Jackson, who faced challenges securing civilian healthcare employment after serving in the military.
