Since launching its initial veteran-focused hiring strategy in 2011, Humana has consistently worked to establish itself as a top employer for veterans and military spouses. With a history of hiring approximately 6,000 veterans and military spouses, the company recently revamped its Military-Connected Talent Pathway, previously known as the Military and Veterans Hiring Initiative, to further enhance its focus on hiring and retaining military-connected individuals. This renewed dedication signifies Humana’s commitment to recognize the evolving needs of military families in today’s workforce.
A Fresh Strategy
Humana’s refreshed hiring approach has set ambitious targets, pledging to hire at least 2,000 military-connected employees, including veterans and spouses, by 2032. Of these, 100 will be based in key states like Kentucky, Texas and Florida, where Humana sees significant growth opportunities. Alongside these hiring goals, Humana has set an impressive retention rate target: 75% of military-connected hires will remain with the company in their first year, with the goal increasing to 90% by years two through five.
A central component of Humana’s new approach is the adoption of the “4+1” initiative, developed by Blue Star Families and Hiring Our Heroes. This five-point plan enhances job transferability, remote work options and flexible hours. As part of this commitment, employers are encouraged to offer military spouses additional leave for Permanent Change of Station (PCS) moves. Implementation is in progress and once finalized will further reinforce Humana’s commitment to military spouse support. The fifth component, a fellowship program for military spouses, helps ease workforce navigation and increases career advancement opportunities.
Broadening Support
Humana Military extends the company’s veteran-friendly focus into the communities they serve, particularly within the 26 states covered by the TRICARE East Region. Over the past five years, Humana Military has partnered with more than 25 military and veterans’ service organizations in the Washington, D.C. area and collaborated with various nonprofits supporting military families. These partnerships enable Humana to directly address the distinct needs of military communities, from health care advocacy to community-based support, enhancing the quality of life for veterans and military families.
Building Community
At the heart of Humana’s support system is the military and veteran focused network resource group Salute. Open to all employees, Salute fosters camaraderie and provides a forum for discussing veteran and military-related topics. The group provides valuable insights into the needs of military and veteran consumers, which helps the company improve quality of care and health outcomes for military and veteran members and patients. Salute also plays a significant role in ensuring that Humana’s policies and practices are aligned with the needs of its military and veteran workforce.
The group’s initiatives are extensive, from advocating for policy changes related to deployment compensation to promoting veteran success through mentorship programs. This group also organizes volunteer activities, including food drives and participation in Out of the Darkness Community Walks to address mental health stigma, underscoring Humana’s holistic approach to veteran support. One executive, reflecting on their role as Salute’s co-sponsor, described the network as a community of empathy, kindness and unwavering support—a testament to the strong culture of inclusion Humana has built for its military community.
Veteran Entrepreneurs
For veteran entrepreneurs, Humana’s Supplier Diversity Mentor Protégé Program offers a pathway to growth and sustainability in partnership with company leaders. Now in its fifth year, the program pairs veteran business owners with company executives who guide them through Humana’s ecosystem, fostering business opportunities and network-building. With bi-monthly learning sessions and opportunities to pitch business ideas to various departments and other vendors Humana does business with, this year-long mentorship program has led to at least 11 new business contracts since its inception.
Humana’s veteran-focused initiatives reflect the company’s commitment to being a veteran-friendly organization that hires military-connected individuals and actively invests in their growth and success. By creating a workplace that values their contributions and a support system that understands their unique needs, Humana exemplifies what it means to be a genuinely veteran-inclusive employer.
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