Ajax Paving Industries named Gold-level Veteran-Friendly Employer

Ajax Paving Industries has achieved Gold-level Veteran-Friendly Employer certification from the Michigan Veteran Affairs Agency (MVAA). The prestigious Gold-level designation has been granted to just 5% of the nearly 600 Veteran-Friendly Employers across the state.

Since being created in 2013, the Veteran-Friendly Employer Program has recognized more than 500 Michigan employers with either Bronze-, Silver- or Gold-level status for their efforts in supporting the recruitment, training and retention of veteran workforce talent. To date, 30 employers have received the Gold-level status.

Founded as a small asphalt paving company in 1951, Ajax has grown to be a leader in the road construction industry in Southeast Michigan. Ajax offers a registered apprenticeship program that allows veteran employees to use their GI Bill benefits during the apprenticeship in conjunction with the Sixty by 30 program introduced by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, which aims to increase the number of working-age adults with a skill certificate or college degree toward the goal of 60% by 2030.

“There’s nothing more rewarding than representing something you believe in, like your country,” said Navy veteran and Ajax operations manager Tye Tignanelli. “Ajax has given me the opportunity to continue working for something I believe in. Just like in the military, employees at Ajax work together to accomplish our goals. The Navy laid the groundwork for me to know how to handle high-stress situations, be part of a team, lead by example and know there’s always room to grow. Ajax has continued to let me grow and gives me all the training and support I need to do so. I am proud to work for a company that strongly supports and believes in its veteran workforce.”

“I applaud Ajax Paving for its commitment to developing the skill sets of its veteran employees,” said MVAA Director Adam Hollier. “Former military members and their families are seeking out good-paying jobs and employers that provide them with the resources and environment to succeed, like Ajax, which is doing its part to attract veterans to Michigan. Ajax knows that investing in its veteran workforce strengthens the entire operation and I’m happy to see the company join the ranks of our Gold-level Veteran-Friendly Employers.”

Organizations can learn more about becoming a Veteran-Friendly Employer, including obtaining an application, by visiting the MVAA website.