With Veterans Day approaching, we’re announcing a new benefit for veterans who work for us—we’re associates who have served our country in the military an extra day off every year, beginning this year.
“We value all veterans, especially those who work at TDS. Veterans bring a high level of professionalism, personal accountability, and team-focused values that our company shares,” said Jim Butman, TDS Telecom President and CEO.
Butman made the announcement at an event where Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development Secretary-designee Amy Pechacek awarded the company its second Vets Ready Initiative Gold Level Award. The special recognition highlights companies that “go above and beyond to support veterans and their families.” (Note: we’re proud to say this is the second time we’ve received this award! You can read the full release for more details.)
The idea of the new benefit came from a veteran who works for TDS in Waunakee, Wisconsin. In email correspondence with Butman, TDS Network Specialist Rod Heinz suggested veterans should get Veterans Day off.
“To me, it’s the most honorable way of saying ‘Thank you for your service’,” wrote Heinz.
“His request hit home. Many people say they support our veterans, but what are we doing to show it?” said Butman. “Now if a veteran at TDS wants Veterans Day off or a different day that works better in their schedule, we want them to have it as a show of our gratitude for their service and sacrifice to our country.”
We have nearly 260 veterans within our workforce in 32 states. In Idaho where nearly a quarter of associates have current or past military status, TDS sponsors the Idaho Veterans Chamber of Commerce. TDS also has an associate resource group, geared toward supporting veterans as well as military and law enforcement-oriented groups within the local communities TDS serves. The group is aptly named the Patriot Associate Resource Group.
Find out more about TDS’ military recruiting efforts, available job openings, and benefits for military members by visiting https://tdstelecom.com/careers/military-recruiting.html.
