Old North News

Governor Josh Stein, alongside North Carolina Department of Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley, is urging employers across North Carolina to consider veterans for job opportunities and apply for the HIRE Vets Medallion Award, a program under the U.S. Department of Labor. The application period is open until April 30, 2025.

“North Carolina is home to approximately 700,000 veterans, who bring great skills and experience to our state’s workforce,” said Governor Stein. “The HIRE Vets program recognizes companies for their support for our nation’s heroes, cementing North Carolina’s position as the most military-friendly state.”

The HIRE Vets Medallion Program acknowledges companies for their dedication to hiring, retaining, and developing veterans. Last year, 28 employers in North Carolina received this recognition. A new tool developed by the N.C. Department of Commerce lists these recognized companies on the NCWorks site to help veterans find employment opportunities.

“North Carolina’s military community is one of our state’s strategic assets, and we applaud the many employers who recognize the talent, value and unique perspective that our veterans provide,” Secretary Lee Lilley stated. “By recruiting and training veterans for meaningful employment opportunities, companies assist in the transition to civilian life and honor the sacrifice of military service.”

Secretary Jocelyn Mitnaul Mallette of the NC Department of Military and Veterans Affairs emphasized the significance of veteran engagement in the workforce. “Veterans and their families enrich North Carolina communities and provide a ready and skilled workforce that is second to none," she noted. "We appreciate the HIRE Vets Medallion program and all it does to inspire, create, and encourage employment opportunities for our Veterans.”

The program's criteria include veteran hiring and retention and dedicated veteran-specific resources, with varying requirements based on business size. Application fees are structured accordingly. Jessica Rice, the Managing Director for Veterans Services of the Carolinas, said, “We are honored to be a three-time recipient of this award, recognizing the immense value Veterans bring to our organization.”

Teamwork with the U.S. Department of Labor and the presence of veteran professionals at NCWorks Career Centers underlines North Carolina's support for veterans in securing employment. The state is also collaborating with North Carolina For Military Employment (NC4ME) on specialized hiring events.

Further details and applications for the HIRE Vets Medallion Award are accessible at www.HireVets.gov. Veterans and employers can seek assistance at local NCWorks Career Centers, available through www.NCWorks.gov.

NCWorks Veterans Services benefit from the Jobs for Veterans State Grant, which is part of an award totaling $5,703,016 from the Veterans' Employment and Training Service (VETS) of the U.S. Department of Labor.