Talent

Veterans Are Vital to America's Workforce Says Whirlpool

Nov. 11, 2014

"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," the compay said.

Adrienne Selko

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.

About the Author

Adrienne Selko | Senior Editor

Focus: Workforce, Talent

Follow Me on Twitter: @ASelkoIW

Bio: Adrienne Selko has written about many topics over the 17 years she has been with the publication and currently focuses on workforce development strategies. Previously Adrienne was in corporate communications at a medical manufacturing company as well as a large regional bank. She is the author of Do I Have to Wear Garlic Around My Neck? which made the Cleveland Plain Dealer's best sellers list. She is also a senior editor at Material Handling & Logistics and EHS Today.

Editorial mission statement: Manufacturing is the enviable position of creating products, processes and policies that solve the world’s problems. When the industry stepped up to manufacture what was necessary to combat the pandemic, it revealed its true nature. My goal is to showcase the sector’s ability to address a broad range of workforce issues including technology, training, diversity & inclusion, with a goal of enticing future generations to join this amazing sector.

Why I find manufacturing interesting: On my first day working for a company that made medical equipment such as MRIs, I toured the plant floor. On every wall was a photo of a person, mostly children. I asked my supervisor why this was the case and he said that the work we do at this company has saved these people’s lives. “We never forget how important our work is and everyone’s contribution to that.” From that moment on I was hooked on manufacturing.

I have talked with many people in this field who have transformed their own career development to assist others. For example, companies are hiring those with disabilities, those previously incarcerated and other talent pools that have been underutilized. I have talked with leaders who have brought out the best in their workforce, as well as employees doing their best work while doing good for the world.