On Veterans Day, we come together to honor the sacrifices made by our US military Veterans and their families. We acknowledge their unwavering commitment and extraordinary courage in protecting our freedoms. The immeasurable contributions Veterans have made – past and present – have a profound impact on our firm’s culture of belonging and society and help shape the communities in which we live and work.
On Veterans Day, we not only pay tribute to our Veterans but also acknowledge their vital role in shaping our nation’s history and preserving our way of life. “Veterans Day is a time to stop and reflect, revisit the connections made through my service and take the time to honor the sacrifices many have paid for us to enjoy our freedoms,” said Earl Wynn, Business Services senior manager and US Army Veteran.
Teamwork, loyalty and adaptability are all qualities valued in the PwC professional – they are also ingrained in those who have served in the military. “Coming from a military background, we learn things like dedication, commitment and pride in what you do on a day-to-day basis,” said Marco Moreno, Trust Solutions senior associate and Marine Corps Veteran. At PwC, we understand the depth and breadth of experience Veterans bring to our firm and we’ve created programs that support our Veterans, active-duty military personnel and their families, including allowing those who continue to serve while working at PwC the ability to meet their military service requirements. “I’ve served in the Army for 12 years – four years on active duty and eight years in the reserves. I still serve as a Captain's Career Course instructor at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri and regularly leverage the military leave benefits to attend annual training,” said Brittany Ryan, Consulting Solutions director. Additionally, military spouses who may be required to move due to a military reassignment or take time away to care for a loved one are supported by our relocation and family leave policies.
Veterans Day also provides another platform to address the challenges faced by our Veterans and to support their transition back into civilian life. “Many Veterans struggle with depression, disabilities and mental health after their service. Reintegrating back into civilian life is difficult and challenging. Understanding these difficulties can lead to more empathy and support which would help ensure we receive the help we need,” said Joshua Pellew, Consulting Solutions manager and Army National Guard Veteran. At PwC, we remain dedicated to cultivating a workplace and society that values and supports our Veterans, which is why we’ve been recognized as one of the Top 100 Military Friendly Employers and a Military Times’s Best for Vets Employer. By recognizing and harnessing the talents of military Veterans, we benefit from their unique perspectives and contribute to a more inclusive and diverse workforce.
Our Veterans Affinity Network (VAN) offers a community of support for PwC’s Veterans and their families, as well as those with loved ones in the military. “The VAN has meant community and family to me. I've met such a diverse group of individuals since being a member that it's really broadened my network and my sense of belonging here at the firm,” said Brittany Ryan.
Through the network, the VAN Mentorship Program also offers newly hired Veterans an opportunity to be formally coached by more experienced Veterans at PwC to support and advance their personal and professional development. Ben Cruz, Business Services senior associate and 20-year Army Veteran, reflected on his transition and growth. “I've gained insights from fellow Veterans who've successfully transitioned into the corporate world. Leveraging multiple networks like our Latino and Pan-Asian Inclusion Networks, along with the Veterans Affinity Network, has not only expanded my professional network but also my personal growth and understanding of the world around me.”
When our people have the space to authentically share who they are as they have defined themselves, it makes our culture of belonging — and our community of solvers — stronger. As we come together this Veterans Day, we continue to be thankful for the extraordinary service, impact and commitment of our Veterans.
Earl Wynn, Business Services senior manager and US Army Veteran
Marco Moreno, Trust Solutions senior associate and US Marine Corps Veteran
Brittany Ryan, Consulting Solutions director and US Army Veteran and Reservist
Joshua Pellew, Consulting Solutions Manager and US Army National Guard Veteran
Ben Cruz, Business Services senior associate and US Army Veteran