Pacific Business News: Hawaii Walmarts hire nearly 600 veterans since employment program launch

Walmart has reported hiring more than 243,000 veterans nationwide, along with more than veteran 39,000 promotions, since launching its Veterans Welcome Home Commitment in 2013.

Walmart’s initial goal in starting the Veterans Welcome Home Commitment was to hire 100,000 veterans nationwide, and in two years, the company expanded its original projection to hiring 250,000 veterans by the end of 2020.

In Hawaii alone, Walmart has hired more than 590 veterans in the past six years.

“We applaud Walmart for taking a leadership role in hiring veterans, particularly with our state’s low unemployment and talent crunch,” said Chamber of Commerce Hawaii President & CEO Sherry Menor-McNamara in a statement. “The men and women who come out of serving our country have dedication, a strong work ethic and are exceptional problem solvers. We are grateful for their service to protect our country and appreciate businesses like Walmart who show their gratitude and honor our veterans by giving them an opportunity.”

These projections, reported hires and promotions include veterans hired under Walmart’s original and expanded Veterans Welcome Home Commitment as well as other veterans hired by Walmart in this time frame.

“It’s our honor to support veterans and military families,” said retired Gen. Gary Profit, Walmart senior director of military programs, in a statement. “These men and women are assets to our workforce, bringing the type of experience and work ethic we value here at Walmart. We’re proud to continue providing quality career opportunities when they return home.”

More than 14,000 military spouses were hired in the program’s first year nationwide.

“This company has a long history of supporting members of the military and their families,” said Walmart U.S. CEO John Furner in a statement. “Last year, we decided to address the high unemployment rate among military spouses, by launching the Military Spouse Career Connection. Military spouses are capable and qualified for a variety of jobs offered by Walmart and Sam’s Club, and we wanted many more of them to join our family.”

“Our military spouses make daily sacrifices on behalf of their uniformed spouses and their families,” said Lance McAlister, Hawaii Market Manager. “We have tremendous respect for all they do and want to help them find work and possibly grow an amazing career. They will always have a home with us at Walmart and Sam’s Club.”