Xcel Energy recognized for military hiring practices

MINNEAPOLIS, May 24, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Xcel Energy was recently recognized as a 2013 winner of the Most Valuable Employer for Military by CivilianJobs.com for its efforts in hiring military personnel. CivilianJobs.com helps U.S. military personnel connect with civilian careers.

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MVEs are selected annually based on employers whose recruiting, training and retention plans best serve military service members and veterans.

"Xcel Energy's efforts to attract military veterans has proven successful for both the company and our employees," said Ben Fowke, chairman, president and CEO of Xcel Energy. "We value the skills, commitment and diversity that our veterans bring to the workplace. Their contributions are vital to our company's achievements."

Qualities exhibited by military-experienced employees include the ability to learn quickly, support a team environment, respect procedures, prioritize safety and provide leadership to those around them.

Xcel Energy recruits through websites that focus on military service members. Recruiters and hiring managers participate in numerous career fairs that are focused on veterans entering the civilian workforce.

The company hosts an internal organization called Military Ombudsmen for Veterans and Employees. These employees focus on the development, implementation and communication of programs and policies centered on the welfare of veterans and their families.

MOVE attends career fairs to recruit veterans and active military that will be transitioning to a civilian job. They also host annual Support our Troops drives to collect hundreds of packages to be sent to military families. 

Xcel Energy complies with all requirements of the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act, as well as all state laws.

In addition, the company supports its employees who are called to active duty with enhanced benefits. For the first six months of eligible military leave, Xcel Energy will pay the difference between the employee's base pay and the pay the employee receives from the military.

The award from CivilianJobs.com is in addition to the recognition the company has received from G.I. Jobs for being a military-friendly employer. Xcel Energy posts open positions that are a fit for military personnel at militaryfriendly.com.

To learn more about the CivilianJobs.com award, please visit http://www.civilianjobs.com/MVE_Winner_2013.htm.

Xcel Energy (NYSE: XEL) is a major U.S. electricity and natural gas company with regulated operations in eight Western and Midwestern states. Xcel Energy provides a comprehensive portfolio of energy-related products and services to 3.4 million electricity customers and 1.9 million natural gas customers through its regulated operating companies. Company headquarters are located in Minneapolis. More information is available at www.xcelenergy.com.

Xcel Energy External Affairs Contact: Erin Mathe 414 Nicollet Mall Minneapolis, MN 612-330-1915 www.xcelenergy.com

SOURCE Xcel Energy