ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — In an era where the integration of military veterans into the civilian workforce is critical, Sandia National Laboratories has showcased a formidable commitment to this cause by being awarded the prestigious HIRE Vets Platinum Medallion Award for the fifth consecutive year. This award, presented by the U.S. Department of Labor, signifies not only a dedication to veteran hiring practices but also reflects the organization’s comprehensive approach to retain and support these invaluable members of society. With this honor, Sandia has proven that their strategies in attracting and fostering talented individuals who have served the military continue to outperform the national averages.
The HIRE Vets Medallion Program, a distinguished initiative, evaluates companies based on various criteria, including hiring rates of veterans, retention metrics, and the support frameworks provided to veterans and their families. Sandia’s notable statistics — almost 20% of their new hires in 2024 were military veterans, with an extraordinary 85% retention rate over the course of at least 12 months — underscore the effectiveness of this program. This high retention rate can largely be attributed to the organization’s robust Military Support Committee. This specialized body provides a wealth of resources aimed at facilitating veteran integration into the workplace, ensuring that newcomers have access to crucial networks and support systems.
Brian Maloney, a veteran talent acquisition specialist with Sandia, reiterates the organization’s dedication to recruiting top-tier talent. With a background as a retired senior master sergeant in the U.S. Air Force, Maloney is acutely aware of the unique skills brought by service members. He asserts that transitioning from military to civilian careers can be daunting, but draws on his personal experiences to convey how the traits cultivated in military service—discipline, commitment, and integrity—perfectly align with Sandia’s mission. This synergy not only enhances the work culture but also fortifies the organization’s competitive edge in the realm of national security.
Reflecting on the experiences of several transited veterans shows that Sandia’s efforts to build an inclusive environment play a considerable role in successful transitions from military roles. Maj. Nick Nava, a U.S. Air Force reservist and cybersecurity specialist, exemplifies this ethos. Having joined Sandia in 2022, he was pleasantly surprised to discover the underlying culture of support that extends beyond mere recruitment efforts. It is this culture that fosters a sense of belonging among veterans, where they are welcomed and valued for their unique contributions.
Nava actively participates in the committee’s recruiting team, undertaking various outreach missions to encourage veterans to consider careers at Sandia. His insights during these interactions reveal a common theme: many veterans are often unaware of how their military-acquired skills can provide significant value in civilian roles. With Sandia’s expansive mission and diverse job opportunities, it becomes evident that the lab not only seeks to attract veterans but also invests in aligning their skills with organizational needs.
Concerns about balancing military obligations with civilian employment are paramount for many reservists contemplating a transition. However, Nava reassures prospective candidates that Sandia is dedicated to supporting its employees’ dual commitments. His own journey has been marked by unwavering support from management, allowing him to fulfill his military responsibilities without financial or career-related anxiety. This commitment to veterans illustrates Sandia’s deep-rooted belief in maintaining a strong workforce while honoring its obligations to the nation.
Moreover, Sandia has developed a leadership ecosystem designed to empower employees, especially veterans, by offering extensive resources and platforms for professional development. This environment not only supports veterans in achieving their personal aspirations but also fosters the growth of potential leaders within the organization, thereby ensuring a future-ready workforce.
In addition to recruitment and retention programs, Sandia employs various mentoring schemes, as well as veteran network groups, that facilitate conversations across employee demographics. In bridging the cultural gap between veterans and nonveterans, these groups pave the way for a collaborative and understanding workplace environment. This approach recognizes the diverse experiences of Sandia’s workforce and cultivates a culture that values shared learning and mutual respect.
Nava is unequivocal in recommending Sandia as a great place for any veteran transitioning into the private sector. He points to the organizational culture that resonates strongly with the values held in military service, providing a seamless continuation of the inherent mission of serving the country, albeit in a different capacity. At Sandia, veterans can leverage their skills while contributing to significant national security efforts.
The commitment to veterans does not go unnoticed by leadership. During a Veterans Day celebration at Sandia’s Livermore campus, Director Laura McGill expressed gratitude to veterans for their service, emphasizing how their experiences enrich the capabilities of teams throughout the laboratory. Her acknowledgment of the critical thinking and leadership abilities honed during military service highlights Sandia’s recognition of the diverse skill sets that veterans bring to the table.
As the impact of veterans in civilian roles continues to grow, organizations like Sandia National Laboratories set the standard for fostering inclusive, supportive environments that value military experiences. Their targeted initiatives not only help in achieving impressive hiring metrics but also in building a culturally cohesive workplace. With an unwavering commitment to veterans, Sandia provides a model for how companies can effectively integrate military personnel into their workforce, ultimately benefiting the organization and enhancing national security.
As the conversation surrounding veteran employment evolves, Sandia serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration in demonstrating the impact veterans can have, not only within their organizations but also in contributing to broader societal goals. Their continued focus on veteran integration is a crucial step in empowering those who have served, ensuring they receive the recognition and opportunities they rightfully deserve. Sandia National Laboratories exemplifies how organizational culture, paired with clear support systems, can mobilize the immense potential of veterans, thereby enriching the community and fortifying national commitments.
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Image Credits: Credit: Photo by Craig Fritz.
