Slalom recognized as Beyond the Yellow Ribbon company

Slalom, a next-generation professional services company, was recognized as a Beyond the Yellow Ribbon company for its efforts in supporting the military community at a proclamation event held in Minneapolis on Jan 30.

It was attended by military members, Slalom employees, and special guests, including Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey. The Beyond the Yellow Ribbon corporate and community network is made up of 80 companies and organizations and 53 cities and counties across Minnesota.

“Together, our network partners provide welcoming and caring workplaces and communities for veterans, service members, and their families. They recognize the value of their service and sacrifices,” said Army Maj. Gen. Charles Kemper, Minnesota National Guard 34th Infantry Division commanding general, who spoke at the event.

To receive the Beyond the Yellow Ribbon designation, companies must take steps, including implementing an action plan with strategies that actively support military-connected employees and their families and involve everyone within the company. Slalom has achieved this and more.

“Becoming a Beyond the Yellow Ribbon organization is not just a gesture for supporting our military veterans in the workplace; it’s a commitment to honoring their sacrifice and valuing the unique strengths, resilience, and diverse perspectives they bring,” said Darrin Ahrens, Slalom general manager. “It’s about creating an inclusive environment that recognizes and appreciates the skills and experiences gained through service, and fostering a culture where every veteran feels understood, respected, and empowered to thrive in their professional journey.”

Retired Air Force Col. Jim Wall, a consulting leader at Slalom who also spoke at the event, cited the challenges service members and their families face and the support they need from employers. He added that although Slalom’s veteran employee resource group in Minneapolis may be small, its efforts can affect all its military-connected employees. The company has nearly 12,000 employees in 49 offices worldwide.

“…The things that we’re doing here, because of what we’re doing in Minnesota, that’s going to have a drastic impact on all of Slalom, which I’m super excited for,” Wall said.

Beyond the Yellow Ribbon, also known as BTYR, establishes and sustains a community and corporate support network that connects and coordinates agencies, organizations, and resources to meet the needs of Minnesota’s military community in all branches. Learn more at https://MinnesotaNationalGuard.ng.mil/btyr.

Cristina Oxtra
Minnesota National Guard Public Affairs