Outdated or Unsupported Browser Detected
DWD's website uses the latest technology. This makes our site faster and easier to use across all devices. Unfortunatley, your browser is out of date and is not supported. An update is not required, but it is strongly recommended to improve your browsing experience. To update Internet Explorer to Microsoft Edge visit their website.

Tony Evers, Governor
Amy Pechacek, Secretary

Department of Workforce Development
Secretary's Office
201 E. Washington Avenue
P.O. Box 7946
Madison, WI 53707-7946
Telephone: (608) 266-3131
Fax: (608) 266-1784
Email: sec@dwd.wisconsin.gov

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 1, 2026
CONTACT: DWD Communications
CommunicationsOffice@dwd.wisconsin.gov

DWD Seeks Wisconsin Employers Who Go Above and Beyond for Veterans

Applications Now Open for the Vets Ready Employer Initiative

MADISON – This National Military Appreciation month, the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development (DWD) is inviting Wisconsin employers who prioritize hiring and retaining veterans to apply for its Vets Ready Employer Initiative.

The Vets Ready designation recognizes employers that go above and beyond for Wisconsin's veteran workforce. It honors those employers that hire and retain veterans, build veteran support systems, and connect with veterans in the community. It also helps employers attract and retain veteran talent. Applications are open now through July 31, 2026. Winners will be announced in November on Veterans Day.

"Wisconsin employers have a track record of recognizing the valuable experience and skills that veterans bring to the workforce," said DWD Secretary Amy Pechacek. "Through our Office of Veteran Employment Services, which connects veterans and employers, DWD encourages employers to apply for the Vets Ready award."

To be eligible for recognition in the Vets Ready Employer Initiative, employers must prioritize veteran hires, connect and support the veteran community, and offer veteran support services to employees to help military personnel transition to the civilian workforce. These include peer-to-peer mentorship initiatives that connect veteran employees, flexible leave policies, and creative health supports like a well-being room for a mental reset and heart-rate monitors.

Awarded each year since 2020, this annual recognition provides gold or silver designation to small, medium, and large businesses. DWD promotes employers that receive Vets Ready recognition to veteran job seekers and community partners. Last year, DWD recognized a record 25 Vets Ready employers.

For the award program, DWD partners with organizations including the Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs, the Disabled American Veterans Department of Wisconsin, the Wisconsin American Legion, Employer Support of the Guard and Reserves, and the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation.

To apply:

Login to the Job Center of Wisconsin website as an employer
Hover over the "Employers" menu to open the sub-menu
Choose My Company Information
Then, choose "Manage Vets Ready Employer Applications" to begin an application

Learn more at the Vets Ready website and contact VetsReady@dwd.wisconsin.gov or your local veterans employment representative with Vets Ready questions.

ABOUT DWD

Wisconsin's Department of Workforce Development efficiently delivers effective and inclusive services to meet Wisconsin's diverse workforce needs now and for the future. The department advocates for and invests in the protection and economic advancement of all Wisconsin workers, employers, and job seekers through six divisions – Employment and Training, Vocational Rehabilitation, Unemployment Insurance, Equal Rights, Worker's Compensation, and Administrative Services. To keep up with DWD announcements and information, sign up for news releases and follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X, and YouTube.