TDS Telecom recognizes veterans in company's Idaho workforce
Nearly one-quarter of TDS associates in Idaho are Veterans
As our nation recognizes Veterans Day, TDS Telecom (TDS®) is thanking the hundreds of veterans working for TDS in Idaho and across the country.
In Idaho, where TDS is building fiber internet networks in communities including Meridian, Nampa, Coeur d’Alene, and others, approximately 19 associates have current or past military status. That’s nearly one-quarter (22.3%) of TDS’ total workforce in the state. Across the country, TDS employs more than 250 veterans.
“We strive to make TDS a workplace of choice for veterans, who bring a high level of professionalism, personal accountability, and team-focused values that our company shares,” said Jim Butman, TDS Telecom President and CEO. “On this Veterans Day, we thank our associates and all who have served to protect the freedoms we enjoy today.”
The company works diligently to make veterans aware of employment opportunities and, once they are employed, ensure they are supported.
For associates on military leave, TDS offers differential compensation and continuation of health care coverage and the company share of insurance premiums. On Wednesday, the company announced it will provide veterans with an extra day off every year, beginning this year, to show its appreciation for their service.
TDS also formed the Patriot Associate Resource Group, which provides a sub-community within the larger TDS workforce for veterans, current military service members, first responders, and non-military supporters. Founded in 2016, the group offers avenues for volunteerism, support for various service organizations, knowledge sessions, and celebrates military holidays and events.
“It can be difficult to go from military to civilian life, but veterans are very good workers who have a skillset that stands out in the hiring process. With TDS, employing veterans is good for both them and the company,” said Michael Brinkley, manager of Field Services in Kendrick who served in the Coast Guard from 1997-2003.
Idaho associates say skills they developed in the military translate well to TDS. Many had telecommunications-related duties while serving, making several TDS roles -- such as field service technician -- a natural fit.
“I’ve always been able to take my core training and relate it to my career. It’s served me really well over the years and laid the foundation for where I’m at today,” said Jim Scibelli, manager of Field Services in Meridian who served in the Army from 1985-93.
“It’s ingrained in you in the Marine Corps that everybody is on a team. Overcoming obstacles, not getting overwhelmed, diffusing conflict, multi-tasking – many of those situations come easier for those of us with military experience,” said Randy Brunes, manager of Field Services in Post Falls and a corporal in the Marine Corps from 1982-87.
TDS is a proud sponsor of the Idaho Veterans Chamber of Commerce. The company, which is based in Madison, Wisconsin, also received its second Gold Level Award through the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development’s Vets Ready Initiative, which highlights companies that “go above and beyond to support Veterans and their families.”
“TDS works very well with veterans, especially those in the Reserves who need time off. TDS supports them 100%,” Brunes said.
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.
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