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U.S. Labor Dept. Rates Alaska Airlines Top Job Spot For Veterans
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Carrier one of five companies in nation to receive recognition
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1/27/2009 3:18 p.m.
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Alaska Airlines has been recognized by the federal government for being a top place for veterans to work. The U.S. Department of Labor's Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) announced recently that Alaska Airlines is one of five companies nationwide to receive the honor as part of the Good Faith Initiative for Veterans Employment (G-FIVE) program.
"The G-FIVE was created to address the employment challenges facing the veteran workforce today by recognizing federal contractors for their efforts in employing and advancing veterans," said Charles E. James Sr., deputy assistant secretary for OFCCP.
In addition to Alaska Airlines, the four other companies recognized were: Computing Technologies Inc. of Fairfax, Va.; the Savannah River Site of Wackenhut Services Inc. in Aiken, S.C.; Engineering Systems Solutions of Frederick, Md.; and Hawaiian Electric Co. of Honolulu.
Alaska employs more than 800 veterans in several departments and work groups across the company, according to Laura Harlos, manager of equal employment opportunity.
"The recognition is particularly welcome considering it's one of our company goals — to build a diverse and inclusive workforce where everyone is valued, committed and connected," she said.
Harlos said Alaska Airlines posts jobs directly with the Army Reserves and is working to do the same with other branches of the military. The company also has been present at events sponsored by Hire America's Heroes, a nonprofit group that helps connect U.S. military personnel with potential employers.
Alaska Airlines has a history of supporting veterans through its "Hero Miles" program, which uses donated miles to transport soldiers who have been injured and/or their family members who need to travel to hospitals. The company also provides donations to such groups as the Paralyzed Veterans of America, Nisei Veterans Committee, Veterans of Foreign Wars and the Tuskegee Airmen.
In fact, the company flew some veteran members of the Tuskegee Airmen, the first black pilots in the U.S. military, to Washington, D.C., last week, where newly inaugurated President Barack Obama honored them.
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