Wisconsin Electric and Wisconsin Natural Receive Jon Van Dyke Memorial Award

Strategic Insights -

Wisconsin Electric Power Company and Wisconsin Natural Gas Company have been recognized for their efforts in hiring, retaining, and accommodating employees with disabilities. The companies, which are subsidiaries of Wisconsin Energy Corporation, received the Jon Van Dyke Memorial Award from the Milwaukee County Office on Handicapped. The award is given annually to private sector employers and a Milwaukee County department that demonstrate significant progress in disability employment. Thomas H. Fehring, assistant secretary of both companies, accepted the award, acknowledging the progress made but emphasizing the need for continued efforts to improve accessibility for physically challenged individuals.

Key Takeaways:

  • Wisconsin Electric and Wisconsin Natural employ 29 people with disabilities, ranging from arthritis to spinal cord injuries, in various professional, skilled, and clerical occupations.
  • The companies have made significant progress in hiring, retaining, and accommodating employees with disabilities, but recognize the need for ongoing improvement in accessibility.
  • The renovation of Wisconsin Electric's headquarters building will significantly improve access for disabled people while preserving the historic character of the building.
  • Wisconsin Electric serves over 944,000 customers in southeastern, east central, and northern Wisconsin, as well as the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.
  • Wisconsin Natural is the state's second-largest natural gas distributor, serving nearly 350,000 customers in southeastern Wisconsin, the Fox Valley, and the Prairie du Chien area.
  • The companies, as subsidiaries of Wisconsin Energy Corporation, have demonstrated commitment to diversity and inclusion in their employment practices.

Statistics:

  • 29 people with disabilities are employed by Wisconsin Electric and Wisconsin Natural.
  • The companies serve over 1.3 million customers in total (944,000 by Wisconsin Electric and 350,000 by Wisconsin Natural).
  • The renovation of Wisconsin Electric's headquarters building will improve access for disabled people.
  • The award recognizes the companies' efforts in hiring, retaining, and accommodating employees with disabilities.

Sources:

  • Milwaukee County Office on Handicapped
  • Rick James of Wisconsin Electric Power Co., 414-221-3818