Paris Cos. Gets Award for Hiring Vets

The Department of Pennsylvania American Legion recently presented its 2017 Employer of Veterans Award to Paris Cos., DuBois, PA. The award was given to Paris at the American Legion’s 99th Annual Convention in Harrisburg, PA, according to a news release.

During 2016, 15 of the 90 new employees hired by Paris Cos. through Pennsylvania’s Department of Labor and Industry, Bureau of Workforce Partnership and Operations (CareerLink), were veterans of the U.S. armed services. This number of veteran hires distinguished the company in the state and led the Pennsylvania American Legion to name Paris its award winner in the large-company category.

Billy Walls, member of J.D. Lester, Post 17, The American Legion, who recently retired as Pennsylvania CareerLink’s local veterans’ employment representative, nominated Paris for the honor. “Paris is one of the first calls I make when I have a veteran that fits their needs,” Walls said. “It’s a great partnership that benefits our local veterans.”

Paris has a wide range of employment opportunities and has placed veterans throughout its ranks in professional, technical and production positions. Paris Cos. CEO David Stern sees veterans as a rich pool of talent, according to the release. “The state’s veterans outreach program works,” Stern said. “Many veterans have a mix of discipline, work ethic and skills that increases their ability to succeed with us.”

Additionally, Pennsylvania state Rep. Matt Gabler (R-75th Dist.) sponsored a citation from the Pennsylvania House of Representatives congratulating Paris on its success and service to the community. The citation was presented by Rep. Gabler along with state Rep. Cris Dush (R-66th Dist.).