Madison Reporter

UW Health has been recognized as a Vets Ready Employer for 2024 by the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development and its Office of Veteran Employment Services. This accolade is part of an annual award that honors employers in Wisconsin who have shown exceptional commitment to hiring and supporting veterans and their families. UW Health received a gold certification in the large-sized business category.

The selection process for this recognition involves evaluating applicants based on their support for veterans within the workplace, including available resources, training, work environment, hiring practices that prioritize veteran hires, and efforts to engage with the broader veteran community.

Rudy Jackson, chief nurse executive at UW Health, highlighted the organization's involvement in the Wisconsin Military Medics and Corpsmen Program. This initiative allows eligible Army medics, Navy corpsmen, and Air Force techs to work in civilian healthcare roles temporarily without requiring credentials or licenses while they pursue additional qualifications. "I’m proud that UW Health recognizes the value and skills of veterans," Jackson stated.

Jackson's dedication to employing veterans stems from his personal experience serving 27 years in the Army as a medic and nurse. Reflecting on his transition back to civilian life, he said: “I was proud to serve my country... but when I came back to the United States, my civilian health care options were nonexistent.” He expressed satisfaction in helping veterans utilize their skills within UW Health's workforce.

In addition to hiring initiatives, UW Health supports employees still serving or those who have retired from military service through an employee resource group aimed at providing guidance and fostering a sense of belonging.

Gary Meyer, director of the Division of Employment and Training for the Office of Veteran Employment Services at the Department of Workforce Development, emphasized the importance of such initiatives: “Employers like UW Health... understand what a tremendous asset these veterans are.”

The Vets Ready Employer Initiative aims to encourage workplaces across Wisconsin to develop robust support systems for veterans. The program partners with organizations such as the Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs and others dedicated to enhancing opportunities for veteran employment.