Disney’s Veterans Institute Summit, sponsored by the Wounded Warrior Project, took place at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at Walt Disney World Resort and was created to inspire business professionals and organizations to create their own military veteran hiring programs based on The Walt Disney Company’s Heroes Work Here initiative. which was introduced in 2012, and has resulted in more than 11,000 veterans joining the company, representing all lines of work.
Nearly a century ago, Roy O. Disney and Walt Disney, both served during World War I, and today that tradition of military service support continues.
“We’re proud of the veterans and military spouses who work here at Disney and the powerful impact they make across our company, our teams and our guest experience” said Josh D’Amaro, Chairman, Disney Parks, Experiences and Products.
The Veterans Institute Summit included remarks from U.S. government officials and Disney executives as well as advice and insights from Veterans Service Organizations, firsthand perspectives shared by veterans about their transition to the civilian workforce, and best practices from organizations that have created their own successful programs delivered through keynote presentations, panel discussions, and Disney Institute content.
“Those who have served in the military have a strong sense of mission, purpose and culture that makes them valuable employees as they transition to their civilian lives,” said U.S. Army General Paul Funk II, Commanding General, United States Army Training and Doctrine Command. “I am happy to see organizations like Disney supporting so many of our men and women who have valiantly served their nation.”
The Veterans Institute Summit opening day panels and keynotes included discussions on how businesses and organizations can create a culture of support, understanding how military experience can be adapted to organizations, and a panel on military spouse employment.
