- Company Name:
- Qualcomm
- Type of Industry:
- Telecommunications
- Number of Employees:
- 17,500
- Website:
- www.qualcomm.com
Successfully Transitioning Wounded And Injured Military To Civilian Employment
Qualcomm’s employees are their most valued asset. Their commitment to inclusion of all people, including veterans with disabilities, in equal access to opportunities starts with their Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Paul E. Jacobs. Mr. Jacobs’ personal statement sets the tone for Qualcomm’s corporate culture, “We are committed to continuing to reach out to veterans and it’s not just because it’s the right thing to do, but because they are among the best and the brightest, most committed people in America’s workforce. They are the kind of people that we want to have on our team.”
Qualcomm’s Wounded Warrior Project is just one example of the company’s commitment to welcoming home our military heroes. Qualcomm recognized that transitioning wounded and injured military is not just about employment, but includes equipping the Wounded Warriors with the opportunity to gain some workplace experience, giving access to professionals in their field of expertise, and providing an environment which is supportive to their recuperation process. Over the course of eleven weeks, Qualcomm partnered with the Navy Military base and developed a corporate assimilation program, inviting 10 active-duty injured military persons to be paired with mentors who were military veterans. During the program each Warrior was hired as a temporary employee and received technical skills training, professional development guidance, and participated in employment and hiring workshops. Weekly meetings were held with mentors to review accomplishments, and to provide feedback and training opportunities. Additionally, in line with the Qualcomm culture, opportunities were provided for the Warriors to participate in community service and team building events.
Two participants received job offers and left the program early, one left the program due to medical needs, and four are currently interviewing at Qualcomm. The remaining three participants left the program with practical work experience, a professional resume, improved interviewing skills and confidence in their ability to conduct their career search and be successful in a civilian job. Based on the success of the model, Qualcomm will be offering the program twice a year. In the Fall of 2011, participation will double to include 20 wounded warriors.