Dept. of Workforce Development: Announces 2025 Vets Ready Employer Initiative recipients

MADISON — The Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development today announced the 2025 recipients of the Vets Ready Employer Initiative, commending businesses across Wisconsin that provide support to veterans and their families, increase veteran hiring rates, and boost the Wisconsin workforce. A record 25 businesses from across the state were awarded the distinction this year.

“Wisconsin veterans bring invaluable experience and skills to the workforce – assets that employers are looking for to fill high-skill job openings across industries,” said DWD Secretary Amy Pechacek. “We’re proud to congratulate these employers for going above and beyond by supporting veterans and their families in the workforce.”

To be eligible for recognition in the Vets Ready Employer Initiative, employers must prioritize veteran hires, connect and support the veteran community, and offer veteran support services to employees to help military personnel transition to the civilian workforce. These include peer-to-peer mentorship initiatives that connect veteran employees, flexible leave policies, and creative health supports like a well-being room for a mental reset and heart-rate monitors.

Among the 25 employers chosen for the Vets Ready distinction this year, eight are first-time recipients. Employer recipients are promoted by DWD staff, veteran agencies and organizations, and workforce partners through resources such as DWD’s website. Additionally, winners are highlighted as a Vets Ready employer on JobCenterofWisconsin.com and recognized with a special icon on JobCenterofWisconsin.com to indicate the employer’s Vets Ready status. Winners are also given a Vets Ready Winner emblem to include on the company’s website and presented a certificate.

The award program is managed by the DWD Office of Veteran Employment Services. Partners include the Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs, the Disabled American Veterans Department of Wisconsin, the Wisconsin American Legion, Employer Support of the Guard and Reserves, DWD Bureau of Job Service and the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation.

Additional details about how to better support veterans in the workplace and the Vets Ready Employer Initiative, including answers to common questions, are available online.

Employers chosen for the Vets Ready distinction this year, eight are first-time recipients and indicated with an asterisk.