Whirpool Corp., (IW 500/66) which was recently recognized as one of the 2015 Top Military Friendly Employers by Victory Media Inc., a veteran owned company and ratings entity, is offering its “utmost gratitude and respect to our veterans for their service and their sacrifice. For these men and women, while service is an extremely honorable part of their story, those stories don't end when a service member returns home,” the company said on Veteran’s Day.
The company, which “believes the skills they receive through military training are critical to our workforce” is working with Orion International and developed a mentorship program to help new hires with military backgrounds.
"As more and more veterans return to the workforce, it's very important that Whirlpool Corp. and other companies with similar values acknowledge the talents they have to offer," said Lynanne Kunkel, vice president of Global Talent Development and Human Resources at Whirlpool Corp.
“Whirlpool was established 103 years ago today and throughout our history, from shifting production to aid the war effort in 1942, to our Veterans Association today, we have supported the service of our men and women in uniform,” Kunkel added. “The skills these men and women learn in quick decision-making, teamwork and leadership are vital to creating a strong and talented workforce representative of the values the United States is founded on."
Through on-boarding support for veterans and their families, Whirlpool ensures that the transition from military service to civilian life isn't shouldered alone. As part of the company's mentoring program, veterans and mentors help new hires make the transition to new positions and progress to executive leadership. Members support and recognize veteran colleagues, give back through service and support community events.
In 2013, the Whirlpool Veterans Association became the official appliance sponsor of Homes for Our Troops (HFOT), a U.S. non-profit organization that assists veterans who were severely injured in combat. Since 2004, HFOT has handed over the keys for nearly 140 mortgage-free home build projects. For the next three years, new homes will include a full suite of new Whirlpool major appliances and KitchenAid countertop appliances.
