LANSING, Mich. -- The Michigan Department of Technology, Management & Budget (DTMB) today announced that it has earned recognition as a Gold-level Veteran-Friendly Employer from the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency (MVAA). The prestigious Gold-level designation has been granted to just over 4% of the more than 570 veteran-friendly employers across the state. To date, DTMB is one of eight state departments to earn the recognition.

 “At DTMB, we are committed to hiring, retaining, and supporting military veterans. Our recognition as a Gold-level Veteran-Friendly Employer reinforces our efforts, and we’re very proud of this achievement,” said Michelle Lange, DTMB director. “Veterans bring a unique set of experiences and skillsets that have proven to be essential to the work we do supporting other state agencies and our fellow Michiganders. The experience and contributions of our veterans have made a meaningful, long-lasting impact on our team.”  

Since being created in 2013, the Veteran-Friendly Employer Program has recognized more than 500 Michigan employers with either Bronze-, Silver- or Gold-level status for their efforts in supporting the recruitment, training, and retention of veteran workforce talent. To be designated as a Gold-level Veteran-Friendly Employer, employers must retain at least 75% of veteran hires over the most recent 12 months, implement internal veteran support networks, and have a veteran-specific onboarding/orientation process, among other requirements.

As part of the program, MVAA aids employers as they develop and improve their efforts to recruit and retain high-quality veteran candidates.

“DTMB is an advocate for veteran employment, and their track record highlights their commitment,” says Adam Hollier, director of MVAA. “They have retained 97% of their veteran hires throughout the last year, launched innovative programs to attract military veterans to digital careers, promoted professional development and education opportunities aimed at veterans, and established internal programs to connect veterans on their team with one another to create a culture that is inclusive and welcoming to those with a military background. Their passion for supporting veterans is undeniable, and I know they will serve as a model for how other employers in Michigan should serve their military-connected and veteran employees.”

Organizations can learn more about becoming a Veteran-Friendly Employer, including obtaining an application, by visiting the MVAA website.

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