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Building Bridges: Ames Military ERG

Sixty-Two: Ames News — delivered.

From Military Service to Construction Success

Ames Construction places a high value on the diverse and invaluable skill set that military team members bring to our company. Their strong leadership, technical skills, discipline, and adaptability are assets that greatly enrich our organization, leading to a mutually beneficial partnership.

Ames’ unique commitment to our team members allows all to flourish without barriers. One way we accomplish this is by providing a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees feel valued, respected, and are able to be their authentic self, regardless of background or personal identity.

Military Employee Resource Group (ERG)

Ames Construction is developing a Military Employee Resource Group (ERG).

What is an ERG for military personnel?

An Employee Resource Group (ERG) for military personnel in the construction industry is a support network that focuses on the needs and interests of Ames coworkers who are veterans or active military members. The group aims to provide a sense of community, promote career development, and advocate for veteran-related issues within the workplace.

Here are some benefits of joining:

Support Network: A community of peers who understand the unique challenges faced by veterans.

Resource Sharing: Provide information on available resources, such as educational benefits, mental health support, and financial planning services.

Personal and Professional Growth: Access to mentorship, training, and career development resources.

Advocacy: A platform to influence company policies and practices to better support employees who are veterans.

Increased Visibility: Opportunities to showcase leadership skills and contribute to the company’s diversity and inclusion initiatives.

Community Outreach: Engage in community service projects and volunteer opportunities, often with a focus on veteran-related causes.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for the Ames Military ERG

Q: What is an Employee Resource Group (ERG)?

A: An ERG is a voluntary, employee-led group of people who share a common interest. The ERG is committed to raising awareness and creating a sense of belonging among all employees by collectively developing programing, conducting (virtual) events and activities, and supporting community initiatives when possible.

Q: What are the benefits?

A: The ERG will provide the opportunity for networking and professional development. Perhaps the most valuable aspect of participation in an ERG is the sense of community and belonging, which is inherent to the goals and objectives of ERGs.

Q: Who should join the Military ERG?

A: Recently separated veterans, active-duty personnel, active and inactive Guard/Reserve members, prospective service members, people who are family to veteran/military member and civilian allies.

Q: What steps are required to join?

A: Employees must obtain approval from their supervisor and sign-up here:

Q: What is the time commitment?

A: An average of 1 hour per month will be required. An employee in an ERG leadership role may require 2-3 hours per month. With prior supervisory approval and as long as it does not interfere with the employee’s duties, additional time may be required for special events.

Q: Will I be paid for my participation?

A: During regular business hours, members of the ERG will be paid regular time. Completion of ERG tasks or participation in ERG activities must not result in the accrual of overtime. Some volunteer hours for special events may be required.

Q: Are international military members allowed?

A: Yes, the ERG is for military members of all nations.

Q: What if I want to join but I don’t want to share my story?

A: ERG members decide how much of their personal story they want to share. The ERG is a safe place designed to make each member comfortable.

Q: How will monthly ERG meetings be conducted?

A: Meetings will be held virtually via Teams or WebEx.

Q: What is the process to discontinue my participation in an ERG if desired?

A: An employee must send an email to the designated ERG Chair/Co-Chair and their supervisor if they desire to discontinue their ERG participation.

Disclaimers

Statements made within the ERG forums or discussions do not constitute notice to your employer of workplace issues such as discrimination complaints or ADA and FMLA compliance. Please contact your Human Resources Department to address these specific issues or concerns.

Verbal or written statements or discussions within the ERG or its resources do not imply endorsement by Ames Construction (Ames). Ames makes no endorsement, express or implied, of any posts, comments, activities, or actions of ERG members. Please also be advised that all posts, comments, and discussions within the ERGs or ERG resources may be subject to disclosure under state law.

Participation in an ERG is voluntary and is not a required condition of employment. Moreover, no activities occurring outside of regular work hours undertaken as part of participation in an ERG shall be considered within the course and scope of employment.


🚧 Did you know?

After completing military duties, 15% of military veterans enter the construction industry.

Military employment rate after service: According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the unemployment rate for veterans has consistently been lower than that of non-veterans. As of 2022, the unemployment rate for veterans was 3.2%, compared to 3.6% for non-veterans.

Military representation in construction: The construction industry is a major employer of veterans. Veterans account for approximately 6% of the total workforce in the construction industry, according to the U.S. Department of Labor.

Military team members are in high demand: The construction industry often faces a shortage of skilled labor, and military service members are seen as a valuable talent pool due to their discipline, reliability, and transferable skills. Ames Construction sees the value in military service members and invests in that opportunity.

Military team member retention rates: Prior military members working in the construction industry often exhibit higher retention rates compared to non-veterans. Their military background instills a strong sense of loyalty and commitment, which translates well into their civilian careers.

Ames Diversity & Inclusion: Ames Construction recognizes that military service members contribute to the diversity of the construction workforce. Additionally, Ames sees the value of a diverse workforce and actively seeks to hire veterans to bring a variety of perspectives and experiences to their teams.


Outreach and Employment Opportunities

Are you a member of the military or a veteran and want to receive military outreach information? Log in to Workday to view your profile, click the "Actions" button, and select "Personal Data" to update your military status. You can also update your status at this link.

Ames Construction is involved in many military outreach programs.

Ames veterans at Gold Star Clay Shoot

American Military Family (AMF)

This organization’s mission is to stop the epidemic of veteran and first responder suicide. Every 65 minutes a veteran commits suicide. Suicide is never the solution, but the traumas of war leave devastating side effects. The invisible and physical wounds from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and traumatic brain injuries (TBI) are debilitating.

When combined with a litany of side effects from service to country such as severe depression, suicidal ideation, sleep apnea, night terrors, relationship issues, self-medication, seclusion, legal and/or financial issues, and hopelessness, it is no surprise that the statistical data for the number of suicides in the military and first responder community remains at an all-time high.

For the past 19 years, American Military Family (AMF) has answered the call of veterans by providing a reprieve from their many stresses, helping address their physical, mental, and, emotional wounds, and providing them with the necessary services and resources they urgently need.

Ames supports this organization as a sponsor of the annual Gold Star Clay Shoot in Utah.


RecruitMilitary

RecruitMilitary is a comprehensive military-to-civilian recruiting company that connects military veterans, transitioning military service members, and their spouses with employment opportunities. From government jobs for military veterans to remote opportunities, RecruitMilitary has the resources to set things in motion.

Ames works with RecruitMilitary on hiring military service members through career fairs.


DOD SkillBridge Program

The DOD SkillBridge program is an opportunity for service members to gain valuable civilian work experience through specific industry training, apprenticeships, or internships during the last 180 days of service. DOD SkillBridge connects transitioning service members with industry partners in real-world job experiences.

Ames will join this organization in 2024.


Work for Warriors

Work for Warriors (WFW) is a FREE job placement program in California. The organization assists all service members, veterans, their families, and Youth Academy graduates.

Ames works with this organization to assist with hiring military service members.


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