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Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion

Building a Veteran Support Network at JE Dunn

By: Laine Edathikunnel
Communications Manager

JE Dunn Construction was founded by John Ernest “Ernie” Dunn, a man who epitomized commitment, service, and sacrifice. Although not a veteran himself, Ernie renegotiated a major government contract during World War II to forgo profits beyond labor and materials for a quartermaster depot, driven by his deep sense of duty and his sons, Bill and Ernie Jr., who were serving overseas. This spirit of supporting veterans is deeply ingrained in JE Dunn’s history. Bill Dunn Sr. continued this legacy by actively seeking out fellow veterans and sharing sea stories from his days in the Navy in the JE Dunn café. Mr. Dunn fostered camaraderie among veteran employees. His personal connections and dedication helped build a supportive community within the company.

The company’s commitment to veterans has never wavered and the community has evolved and strengthened with the launch of a new Employee Resource Group (ERG) named VALOR – Veterans Assistance through Leadership, Outreach, and Resources. This ERG represents JE Dunn’s ongoing dedication to the veterans within its workforce and beyond.

The inception of VALOR dates back to discussions that began two years ago. The goal was to formalize the company’s unspoken tradition of veteran support into a structured ERG. In its first full year as an official ERG, VALOR has already made significant strides in community involvement and veteran support.

Tyler Bundy, a key member of VALOR, became involved in late 2023 when the company sought office representatives for the Kansas City metro area. His personal connection to the cause, having faced significant challenges transitioning from military to civilian life, fueled his passion for supporting fellow veterans. His story of struggle after leaving the Army in 2014 highlights the importance of having a support network for veterans. “I didn’t know where to go, didn’t really know how to get a job,” Bundy said. His experience underscores the need for initiatives like VALOR, which aim to provide resources and build a supportive community for veterans within JE Dunn.

One of VALOR’s key objectives is to foster community involvement across various regions. The ERG has already sponsored several events, including golf tournaments and care package assembly for troops overseas. Notably, JE Dunn’s Austin office has taken a leadership role in organizing volunteer events, setting a precedent for other offices to follow. Bundy said that they are looking to expand their partnerships with national nonprofits like “Tee it Up for the Troops,” which would allow them to host golf tournaments nationwide.

In addition to these events, VALOR is committed to recognizing and honoring veterans through other special events. They are planning a BBQ recognition event for Veterans Day, aimed at bringing together veterans within the company to share experiences and build camaraderie. Such events not only celebrate veterans but also provide a platform for networking and mutual support.

A significant aspect of VALOR’s mission is to create awareness and a pipeline for veterans interested in joining JE Dunn. By connecting current veteran employees and creating external partnerships, the initiative aims to attract more veterans to the company. John Jacobs highlights the importance of service, a core value of both JE Dunn and its veteran employees. “Those of us who are veterans, literally professionally, are already serving. Now we want to continue to serve, but in areas where we have the most relevance,” he explains. This service-oriented mindset drives the initiative’s efforts to support veterans both within the company and in the wider community.

As VALOR moves forward, the focus will remain on strengthening connections with veterans within JE Dunn and expanding external partnerships. The initiative’s success in its first year is a testament to the dedication and hard work of its members, and it holds great promise for the future. Through VALOR, JE Dunn continues its tradition of supporting veterans, ensuring they have the resources, community, and opportunities they need to thrive.