Air Methods salutes National Hire a Veteran Day
A Blackhawk helicopter.
As one of the nation’s leading air medical service, Air Methods understands the inherent value of hiring veteran service members and every year salutes National Hire a Veteran Day.
Created by Marine Corps Veteran and Hire Our Heroes Founder Dan Caporale, the day is recognized annually on July 25 as a reminder to employers to hire veterans transitioning to civilian life. No matter the military unit, the background of those who serve undoubtedly pairs with Air Methods’ purpose of always being mission ready.
“More than one-third of Air Methods’ workforce have served or are currently serving in the military,” said Paul Williams, vice president of talent acquisition at Air Methods. “We understand the skillsets and values—teamwork, problem-solving, adaptability, leadership, etc.—our service members bring to our mission.”
Dustin Kuhnert
For Dustin Kuhnert, his Air Methods career began concurrently as a HEMS pilot while also serving as a Blackhawk pilot in the Illinois Army National Guard.
“Air Methods always worked well with my part-time National Guard schedule,” said Kuhnert. “I could trade a shift or take military leave for my National Guard training, and I knew that the company understood.”
His career with Air Methods has propelled him into a leadership role as the area manager for the ARCH Air Medical program in Southern Illinois, and he attributes his National Guard experience as the perfect training for a career in HEMS.
“The Blackhawk utility helicopter mission was the perfect mix of IFR and VFR training,” said Kuhnert. “The team-first atmosphere between pilots, paramedics, nurses and medics is unique. We are all mission focused and drive people that like solving problems, working toward a common goal and making a difference.”
Moving from the military to a civilian position can be daunting, but Air Methods works to make it as easy as possible. By having an established military transitioning team made up of veterans and active reservists who have made their journey from military to civilian service, the team will work with veterans seeking employment with Air Methods to help them understand and navigate the hiring process.
Air Methods has several military career opportunities. For more, visit their website.
All photos are courtesy of Dustin Kuhnert.
Dustin Kuhner with his parents.
About Air Methods
Air Methods of Kentucky is part of Air Methods (airmethods.com), the nation’s leading air medical service delivering lifesaving care to more than 100,000 people every year. With nearly 45 years of experience, Air Methods is the preferred partner for hospitals and one of the largest community-based providers of air medical services. Air Methods Ascend is the company’s clinical education program, allowing critical care nurses and paramedics best-in-class training opportunities using high-fidelity mannequins, virtual reality, and cadaver labs.
