Learn about the HIRE Vets Medallion Award, a federal program that acknowledges employers who hire military veterans. 

North Carolina is taking bold steps to strengthen its veteran workforce through a prestigious federal recognition program. With approximately 700,000 veterans calling the state home, Governor Josh Stein and state officials are urging employers to participate in the HIRE Vets Medallion Award program, which acknowledges organizations that excel in hiring and supporting military veterans.

North Carolina leads in veteran employment initiatives

The U.S. Department of Labor’s HIRE Vets Medallion Award program is currently accepting applications through April 30, 2025. This federal-level recognition stands as the only official award recognizing employers’ dedication to veteran hiring, retention, and career development.

“North Carolina is home to approximately 700,000 veterans, who bring great skills and experience to our state’s workforce,” Governor Stein said in a press release. “The HIRE Vets program recognizes companies for their support for our nation’s heroes, cementing North Carolina’s position as the most military-friendly state.”

Innovative tools & resources for veteran employment

North Carolina has developed groundbreaking resources to connect veterans with employment opportunities. The state’s Department of Commerce has implemented a unique online feature on its NCWorks platform that showcases HIRE Vets medallion recipients, making it easier for veterans to identify veteran-friendly employers.

The state maintains a network of 50 NCWorks Veterans Services professionals, all veterans themselves, who provide specialized assistance through local career centers. These professionals work alongside partnerships with organizations like North Carolina For Military Employment (NC4ME) to facilitate hiring events and career opportunities.

Award criteria & recognition

The HIRE Vets Medallion Award evaluates employers based on various criteria, including:

• Veteran hiring and retention rates
• Veteran-specific resources
• Leadership programming
• Dedicated human resources
• Compensation and tuition assistance programs

Application fees vary by organization size:

• Large employers: $495
• Medium employers: $190
• Small employers: $90

In 2024, 28 North Carolina employers received this prestigious recognition. Among them is Asheville Buncombe Community Christian Ministries (ABCCM), whose Managing Director for Veterans Services, Jessica Rice, stated: “At ABCCM Veterans Services of the Carolinas, we are deeply committed to empowering and supporting our nation’s Veterans as they transition into meaningful careers.”

Employers interested in applying for the HIRE Vets Medallion Award can visit www.HireVets.gov. Additional resources and career center locations can be found at www.NCWorks.gov.

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This article may have been created with the assistance of AI.