Gov. Kay Ivey and Alabama Department of Labor Secretary Fitzgerald Washington continue to encourage Alabama employers to hire veterans by applying to and participating in the "HIRE Vets Medallion Award Program," an official program of the U.S. Department of Labor.

The application period runs through April 30, 2022.

“Alabama will always proudly support our military men and women, and our veterans who have served,” Ivey said“Our veterans will, no doubt, be a major asset to Alabama businesses. I remain committed to assisting and lifting up our veterans in any way I can.”

These awards are the only federal-level veterans’ employment awards that recognize a company or organization for hiring veterans, as well as retention and professional development. In 2021, 37 Alabama companies received the HIRE Vets Medallion Award, and 849 employers were recognized nationally. Since the program’s inception, nearly 70 Alabama businesses have received this honor.

Since HIRE Vets began accepting applications in January 2019, over 1,400 employers have earned a HIRE Vets Medallion Award.

“This program provides an opportunity for employers to be honored for going the extra mile in hiring and retaining veterans. I encourage vet-friendly businesses to put their name forward for consideration. This program is advantageous to both employers and veteran employees alike,” said Secretary Washington. 

The HIRE Vets Medallion Award is based on several criteria, ranging from veteran hiring and retention to providing veteran-specific resources, leadership programming, dedicated human resources, and compensation and tuition assistance programs – with requirements varying for large, medium, and small employers. There is no application fee.

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