Lockheed Martin Australia, Saab launch veteran support programs

Lockheed Martin Australia announced it has launched its inaugural Military Veterans Employee Resource Group (MilVet ERG) to recruit, develop, sustain, include, empower and retain Australia’s veteran cohort. MilVet ERG is designed as an inclusive, supportive employee group to unite our veteran workforce and increase awareness of veteran related events, while improving our employee value proposition for veterans through the creation of a strong professional network. Created by current Lockheed Martin Australia veterans, the MilVet ERG is founded on three core pillars – data, people, networks. Strong data tools and analysis will drive HR strategies. Learning opportunities will develop employee understanding of diversity and inclusion and its importance at Lockheed Martin. Networks will be cultivated to increase veteran workforce social capital and provide meaningful career opportunities to ensure long-term career success within defence industry. Veterans are front of mind at Lockheed Martin, with one in five of our employees having served in uniform world-wide. Across Australia, veterans represent 22 percent of the company’s 1,200 sovereign workforce. An additional 7 percent of Lockheed Martin Australia employees are serving the nation as Reservists. Lockheed Martin Australia Chief Executive, Warren McDonald AO CSC said, “Having served more than 40 years with the Royal Australian Air Force, I am proud to launch a program that both supports and strengthens our veteran workforce. At Lockheed Martin Australia we rely on our veterans’ skills and experience to develop innovative and credible solutions to advance critical capabilities our customers need to remain ahead of their adversaries and defend the national interests.” Australia’s most highly decorated veteran, Victoria Cross recipient, Keith Payne VC AM said, “Lockheed Martin Australia’s MilVet ERG is an invaluable program. Veteran participation in and employment pathways into defence industry is an important component to supporting former servicemen and women as they make the journey to civilian life.” Rick Meehan OAM, Chairman Keith Payne VC Veterans Benefit Group said, “The Keith Payne VC Veterans Benefit Group is delighted to work with Lockheed Martin Australia to further shape the strategy for MilVet ERG going forward. Together, we share a resolute commitment to supporting and connecting veterans, and this program strongly aligns with the values and goals of our organisation.” Lockheed Martin is dedicated to supporting Service members with programs that improve their lives and the lives of their families. Locally, since 2019, Australia has invested over $2M in sponsoring organisations including Keith Payne VC Veterans Benefit Group, Legacy, Gallipoli Scholarship Fund, Australian War Memorial, Commando Welfare Trust, Aussie Hero Quilts and more. Saab Australia creates veteran partner support program Saab Australia has launched its Veteran and Australian Defence Force (ADF) Partner Support Program focussing on veterans transitioning from active service into civilian life and employment. Saab Australia’s Managing Director Andy Keough said the program formalised the company’s support to veterans and their families, setting out the principles and actions that will underpin Saab’s future support of veterans, partners of ADF members, and those who continue to serve in the Defence Reserves. “We are focussed on career pathways that lead to fulfilling roles, increasing the awareness of the value of veterans’ skills, and providing a network of like-minded people to support veterans transition into civilian life,” he said. “We’re prioritising veteran support initiatives because of our strong connection to the Australian Defence Force, but more importantly because we acknowledge the significant skills and values that veterans bring to workplaces and our community. Veterans currently represent around 15 per cent of our staff and we seek to grow this as we continue to expand our national footprint and maintain our focus on recruiting the highest quality talent. Much of the public narrative on veterans is focused on those Defence members that need support as a result of mental health and physical injuries resulting from their service. We are seeking to highlight an alternative view of the majority of veterans that have gained positive experiences and skills and have much to offer in civilian life.” For Editorial Inquiries Contact: Editor Kym Bergmann at [email protected] For Advertising Inquiries Contact: Director of Sales Graham Joss at [email protected]