Diamondback Facility Named a Top Military-Friendly Employer
CCA’s Diamondback Correctional Facility was recognized in July by the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) for success in recruiting and hiring military servicepersons and veterans. The facility specifically earned top honors in the ‘large company’ category for this statewide award.
Tim Predieri, human resources manager at Diamondback, has visited the transition offices of local Air Force bases to discuss CCA career opportunities.
“Many returning veterans talk about the apprehension they felt prior to their end of service and the uncertainty of what they will do once they are discharged,” he explains. “I have even received calls from soldiers who are nearing their return to the States, but are still stationed overseas. They inform me that CCA employees who are currently deployed and serving overseas with them speak so highly of the company that they want to work here as well.”
The DAV nominates employers that offer veterans meaningful employment or training leading up to gainful employment. The organization also considers the number of veterans a company hires.
“Receiving this award is certainly an honor, but the real honor that we all have is being able to show our continued and unwavering support for our veterans,” says Lane Blair, warden at Diamondback, which employs a staff of more than 300.
Linda Turner, local veterans’ employment representative at the Enid Workforce Center – one of 31 workforce centers across the state of Oklahoma –nominated Diamondback for the award. “I looked at the number of veterans that Diamondback hires and was aware that CCA is a company that promotes hiring veterans. We want CCA to know we appreciate the work that they do,” she says.
Joining corrections can maximize the discipline, structure and professionalism that are second nature to soldiers, Predieri explains. Such assets also fit well with the culture of a company whose work force is approximately 10 percent veteran-based.
Twice recognized by G.I. Jobs magazine as a “Top 50 Military-Friendly Employer,” CCA continues its efforts to attract veterans. “We are proud to be a positive and visible player in the community,” says Blair. “This recognition not only shows the value of our facility locally, but our impact statewide. The word is getting out about CCA as a quality employer, for military servicepersons and civilians alike.”
CCA Source, Fall 2009