BNSF Recognized as a Top Employer for Veterans
CivilianJobs.com announced the winners of the Most Valuable Employers (MVE) for Military earlier this month. BNSF Railway is again a winner and has made the list each year since the recognition began in 2009.
The MVE recognition, which is timed in May in recognition of Armed Forces Day, serves to help military-experienced job seekers and veterans identify the top employers to target for civilian careers.
MVE is awarded annually to top employers whose recruiting, training and retention plans best serve military members and veterans.
Overall, BNSF has hired more than 6,500 veterans since 2005, when it started its strong military recruiting program, said John H. Wesley III, manager, Military Staffing. BNSF currently employs more than 7,500 veterans, about 17 percent of its workforce.
In 2013, the company added more than 1,200 veterans, 26 percent of all new hires.
On average, BNSF representatives attend approximately 50 veteran-focused job fairs and recruiting events annually. The company offers enhanced and extended benefits for those called to active duty. In 2012, BNSF also donated $500,000 to the United Service Organizations foundation, which funded the Warrior and Family Center at Fort Belvoir, Va.
“Those with military experience are a great fit at BNSF,” said Wesley. “These candidates embody the core competencies essential at our railroad: leadership, teamwork and the ability to perform safely in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. We have obviously made hiring veterans a priority, and we take pride in being continually recognized as a top employer.”
