Community Commitment
November 11, 2024
'A day of reflection and connection': Celebrating Veterans Day at Xcel Energy
Members of the VETS employee group reflect on their military and community service
On Veterans Day, we take a moment to honor individuals who have served in the United States military. Xcel Energy recognizes veterans year-round and is proud to be named a top U.S. employer for the military community. Approximately one in ten Xcel Energy employees are veterans, with 50 sitting in senior leadership roles.
Established in 2012, the Veterans and Employees in Service Together business resource group (VETS BRG), is open to all employees interested in networking, addressing key veteran issues, and mental health and self-development resources. The VETS BRG partners with community organizations to host volunteer opportunities, empowering veteran employees to continue their tradition of service.
During Xcel Energy’s 2024 Day of Service, the VETS BRG tracked a total of 450 volunteer hours to benefit five organizations fighting to end veteran homelessness across Minnesota, Colorado and Texas. For the past three years, Xcel Energy has partnered with the Veterans Community Project in South Dakota and Colorado, donating $100,000 and participating in volunteer building projects to support the organization’s mission to provide stable housing for veterans.
"Service to people, country and community is a core principle for every veteran," said Tony Gagliardo, A vice president of Enterprise Learning & Tech Training and VETS executive sponsor. “That is why the VETS BRG is committed to giving back to the communities where we live and work.”
Established in 2012, the Veterans and Employees in Service Together business resource group (VETS BRG), is open to all employees interested in networking, addressing key veteran issues, and mental health and self-development resources. The VETS BRG partners with community organizations to host volunteer opportunities, empowering veteran employees to continue their tradition of service.
During Xcel Energy’s 2024 Day of Service, the VETS BRG tracked a total of 450 volunteer hours to benefit five organizations fighting to end veteran homelessness across Minnesota, Colorado and Texas. For the past three years, Xcel Energy has partnered with the Veterans Community Project in South Dakota and Colorado, donating $100,000 and participating in volunteer building projects to support the organization’s mission to provide stable housing for veterans.
"Service to people, country and community is a core principle for every veteran," said Tony Gagliardo, A vice president of Enterprise Learning & Tech Training and VETS executive sponsor. “That is why the VETS BRG is committed to giving back to the communities where we live and work.”
For Veterans Day, we asked three employees to share their thoughts on the significance of the day and why they joined the VETS BRG.
From left to right: Cory Brown, Doralee Solon and Gabe Smertneck
Cory Brown, operations manager
What does Veterans Day mean to you?
Veterans Day is a day to honor our brothers and sisters who have served, especially those who are no longer with us.
How has the VETS BRG contributed to a more inclusive and supportive environment at Xcel Energy?
The VETS BRG organizes events to engage veterans and include employees without a military background. Past events from this year include the Veterans Ruck March and canned goods collection and a deployed care package buildout. Our goal is to foster camaraderie among all employees!
What inspired you to join the VETS BRG, and how has this group impacted you?
After 21 years in the Marine Corps, I’ve seen my fair share of loss. The work VETS is doing is a great way for me to meet with others who are also seeking connection and support.
What was one of the most memorable experiences you’ve had as a member of VETS?
We had over 30 participants in the 2023 Veterans Ruck March. Together, we hiked three and a half miles while carrying 698 pounds of food. Through this event, we raised over $1,500 for 23rd Veteran and Keystone Community Services, two great organizations that support veterans and their families.
Doralee Solon, operations training supervisor
What does Veterans Day mean to you?
On Veterans Day, I like to honor the veterans who served before me and the ones who served with me. I also like to reflect on my time in the Navy and the opportunities it has afforded me in my life.
How has the VETS BRG contributed to a more inclusive and supportive environment at Xcel Energy?
The VETS BRG sends a message that veterans are valued and heard at Xcel Energy. I think it’s so important for individuals to celebrate what makes them different!
What inspired you to join the VETS BRG, and how has this group impacted you?
I'm extremely proud of my service and grateful that the VETS BRG has given me the opportunity to work and interact with other veterans.
What was one of the most memorable experiences you’ve had as a member of VETS?
I try to participate in every VETS event that my busy schedule allows. This month, I had a great experience participating in the second annual Veterans Ruck March in St. Paul, Minnesota.
Gabe Smertneck, operations instructor
What does Veterans Day mean to you?
Veterans Day is not only a day of recognition, but also a day of reflection and connection. It’s a time to remember the sacrifices, camaraderie and dedication of those who served.
How has the VETS BRG contributed to a more inclusive and supportive environment at Xcel Energy?
VETS continues the tradition of camaraderie at Xcel Energy by showing up for each other and engaging within the communities we serve.
What inspired you to join the VETS BRG, and how has this group impacted you?
I joined VETS because service extends beyond military duty. The skills and lessons learned can be applied in other areas of our lives, including the workplace. VETS is a group I can turn to for both personal and professional support.
What was one of the most memorable experiences you’ve had as a member of VETS?
By joining VETS, I’ve had many opportunities to meet other veterans and learn about their positions at Xcel Energy. I especially love when I hear stories from veterans who were deployed.
What does Veterans Day mean to you?
Veterans Day is not only a day of recognition, but also a day of reflection and connection. It’s a time to remember the sacrifices, camaraderie and dedication of those who served.
How has the VETS BRG contributed to a more inclusive and supportive environment at Xcel Energy?
VETS continues the tradition of camaraderie at Xcel Energy by showing up for each other and engaging within the communities we serve.
What inspired you to join the VETS BRG, and how has this group impacted you?
I joined VETS because service extends beyond military duty. The skills and lessons learned can be applied in other areas of our lives, including the workplace. VETS is a group I can turn to for both personal and professional support.
What was one of the most memorable experiences you’ve had as a member of VETS?
By joining VETS, I’ve had many opportunities to meet other veterans and learn about their positions at Xcel Energy. I especially love when I hear stories from veterans who were deployed.