Textron Aviation Wins Three National Honors as Military-Ready Employer
Why It MattersVeteran recruitment and retention programs are becoming a visible employer-brand differentiator among aircraft manufacturers competing for scarce skilled aviation and manufacturing labor.
Textron Aviation has received three national employer recognitions for its efforts to recruit, retain and develop veterans and the wider military community. The honors were announced on Veterans Day.
The company was selected for the 2026 HIRE Vets Gold Medallion Award, described as the only federal-level award recognizing employers for veteran hiring, retention and professional development. It earned the 2027 Military Friendly Employer Gold designation, based on an evaluation of its policies, practices and outcomes across six categories. It was also recognized by the Military Times Best for Vets: Employers program, which assesses how organizations recruit, mentor and retain service members and veterans.
Textron Aviation has more than 1,500 military-affiliated employees across the company. Service members can explore opportunities through the Department of War's SkillBridge program and use resources such as the company's Military Transition Guide. Veterans find connections and mentorship through VETCOM, the company's veteran-focused employee resource group. The company also supports Guard and Reserve members through Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) and military spouses through the Military Spouse Employer Partnership.
