Van Meter Named Finalist for DoD Employer Support Award
Iowa-based businesses are being recognized for their workplace policies supporting National Guard and Reserve employees.
Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Military Jobs
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Van Meter Inc. has been named one of 40 finalists for the 2026 Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award. This honor is the highest U.S. government recognition for employers who provide exceptional support to National Guard and Reserve members.
Why it matters
The nomination highlights growing employer focus on retaining service members and military spouses through supportive workplace policies. Competing for this award signals a commitment to military-friendly HR practices that can strengthen recruitment and retention efforts.
Van Meter is one of 40 total finalists selected from a pool of 1,200 nominees nationwide. The company is one of three finalists based in Iowa, with up to 20 total recipients expected to receive the final award.
The players
Van Meter Inc.
A company specializing in electrical and industrial supplies and services.
Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve
A Department of Defense agency that manages programs to support civilian employers of National Guard and Reserve members.
Jeremy Smith
An employee at Van Meter who nominated his employer for the national award.
The details
Companies are evaluated on their workplace policies that accommodate the unique schedules of military employees, including National Guard and Reserve training commitments. Nomination for the award requires a formal submission by an employee serving in those units, such as Van Meter's Jeremy Smith, which validates the operational impact of these internal support programs.
Timeline
September 18, 2026: Iowa ESGR held a recognition ceremony for finalists.
December 2026: Up to 20 finalists will be selected to receive the Freedom Award in Washington D.C.
Market Landscape
The Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award serves as the primary benchmark for corporate military-friendly initiatives in the United States. Following the standard set by this program allows firms to formally benchmark their employee support policies against national leadership.
Business owners should review their own military leave and retention policies to see how they compare to the criteria for national service-member recognition. Strengthening these policies can provide a competitive edge in attracting and retaining talent from the Guard and Reserve.
The takeaway
Recognition as a top employer for service members often hinges on flexible leave policies that go beyond baseline statutory requirements. Operators should audit their current employee handbooks for military-specific support provisions that may qualify their firm for similar state or federal awards.
Further reading
For more on building veteran-friendly workplace programs, see Military Jobs.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Tedmag.
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