Viasat recently received recognition from two organisations as a great place for veterans to work. It was selected for the 2022 HIRE Vets Gold Medallion Award, and earned a spot on the 2022 Military Times Best for Vets: Employers list.
The HIRE Vets Medallion Award is the only federal-level veterans’ employment award that recognises an organisation’s commitment to veteran hiring, retention, and professional development.
Comprehensive annual ranking
The Military Times describes its annual survey as the most comprehensive annual ranking of the country’s best employers and organisations with military-connected employment programs, benefits, and support efforts.
While he’s pleased by the recognition, Viasat Product Manager and Marine Veteran - Mike Rogers isn’t surprised.
Cutting-edge military communications technology
Rogers served in Afghanistan as a close air support pilot, required when hostile targets are near friendly forces
“We’ve been getting recognition each year for continuing to hire veterans,” said Mike Rogers, who heads Viasat’s Veterans Alliance Employee Resource Group, adding “Veterans feel very good being part of a company that supports the military, and lets them find a way to continue to serve.”
Viasat’s government services arm, which is its foundation, produces cutting-edge military communications technology. Rogers served in Afghanistan as a close air support pilot, required when hostile targets are near friendly forces.
Situational awareness
Mike Rogers said, “It’s very easy to be a true believer in our company’s mission when you’ve been in that scenario and realise this equipment would have made such a difference.”
He adds, “It just changes the whole way that you do close air support. It decreases fratricide, increases situational awareness, and most importantly, you’re able to help people in bad situations faster. That’s incredible.”
He said Viasat’s culture is also compelling to veterans.
Performance
“There’s a rigid rank structure in the military, where, in most cases, you need to be at a certain rank for years before you have the opportunity to be promoted,” said Mike Rogers, adding “At Viasat, promotions are based on performance."
He continues, "The overall culture is that the best idea wins, and hard work is rewarded. This positive culture enables people who work hard to have opportunities for growth, promotion, and recognition.”
Veterans’ transition workshops
Viasat hosts veterans’ transition workshops that help veterans navigate the transition from the military to civilian careers
Additionally, the company hosts veterans’ transition workshops that help veterans navigate the transition from the military to civilian careers.
“People who attend tell us that a lot of companies say they support veterans, but you guys are walking the walk,” said Mike Rogers, adding “It’s nice to be part of a company that gives back to veterans that way.”
HIRE Vets Gold Medallion Award
2022 isn’t the first time Viasat has received such recognition. In 2021, it also won the HIRE Vets Gold Medallion Award and was included in the Military Times Best for Vets: Employers list.
The Military Times launched its employers survey in 2017. The publication is part of Sightline Media Group, formerly known as the Army Times Publishing Company, and serves all branches of the U.S. military and other defense organisations.
Selection criteria
The U.S. Department of Labor oversees the HIRE Vets Medallion Awards. Its selections are based on company size, percentage of new veteran hires, overall veteran retention, veteran benefits, and learning and educational opportunities.
The awards are given at the platinum and gold levels to large, medium, and small employers.
