Last week, Bob Frenzel, chairman, president and CEO of Xcel Energy, signed a national statement backing the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), a Department of Defense agency, for the 15th consecutive year. The ESGR program exists to ensure that employees who also serve in the Guard and Reserve have the resources and support they need to maintain their careers while also keeping their country safe. With 1 in 10 new Xcel Energy hires being veterans, the company recognizes the value that military service brings to the workplace.
“Our veterans and military service members bring leadership, teamwork and unique experiences to their teams at Xcel Energy.
“Our veterans and military service members bring leadership, teamwork and unique experiences to their teams at Xcel Energy. Their dedication and passion for service is on display every day, especially in their commitment to our customers,” said Bob Frenzel, chairman, president and CEO of Xcel Energy. “As a veteran myself, I know that the unique skills of my fellow veterans make us a better, stronger company. Our veterans, guardsmen and reservists will play a critical role as we continue to lead the nation in clean energy while serving our customers affordably and reliably.”
“Supportive employers like Xcel Energy are critical to maintaining the readiness and strength of the nation’s Guard and Reserve units and allow them the opportunity to serve our country more effectively and with greater peace of mind,” said Thomas J. Simonet, Chair, ESGR-MN. “In signing the Statement, the company fully understands the commitment to serve and support all military members past and present. This sends a strong positive message to all individuals within Xcel Energy that wore and still wear the uniform to defend this great Nation.”
Employers signing a statement of support pledge that they:
• Fully recognize, honor and enforce the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA).
• Will provide managers and supervisors with the tools they need to effectively manage employees who serve in the Guard and Reserve.
• Appreciate the values, leadership and unique skills service members bring to the workforce and will encourage opportunities to employ guardsmen, reservists and veterans.
• Will continually recognize and support U.S. service members and their families in peace, in crisis and in war.
Xcel Energy complies with all requirements of the USERRA, as well as all state laws. The company is well known for its military hiring practices, earning Top Military Friendly Employer status from organizations such as Military Times, GI Jobs, and CivilianJobs.com. The company provides ongoing support for veteran employees through a special onboarding program for new hires and hosts a Veteran’s affinity group dedicated to sustaining awareness of issues of interest to veterans in its workforce.
