How Warriors at Amazon helps military veterans thrive at AWS

David Sopczak
AWS Principal Security Customer Delivery Architect,
Global Board President of Warriors at Amazon 

Can you share the mission and goals of the Warriors at Amazon employee affinity group?

David: Our mission is to support the veteran, military spouse, and military-connected communities at Amazon. We accomplish this by addressing three key objectives. Firstly, we work to bridge the existing gaps for transitioning service members and their families as they make the important transition into the civilian workforce. Secondly, we facilitate the creation of a robust and supportive professional network that service members can become a part of during their tenure at the company. Lastly, we are committed to guaranteeing that Amazon fosters an inclusive and equitable environment that embraces our military community, ensuring that every member thrives within our organization.

What efforts have been most successful in supporting those goals?

David: One of our most noteworthy initiatives is "Warriors Week," a week-long November celebration dedicated to honoring our worldwide military community. This event is a collaborative effort between the Warriors Global Board, our Global Military Affairs team, and our local Warriors chapters, encompassing an impressive array of over 100 events taking place across the globe. These events range from networking and sporting activities to professional development opportunities, volunteering initiatives, mental health and well-being discussions, and informative sessions about the benefits Amazon offers to our military-connected community.

As part of Warriors week, the Amazon Spheres in Seattle, along with other Amazon buildings in the U.S., are lit green for the whole week in partnership with Operation Green Light for Veterans.

How does the Warriors group provide support, community, and professional development opportunities for veteran employees at Amazon?

David: Warriors at Amazon is dedicated to continuously enhancing the experience of our military community within the company. We collaborate across Amazon's various business units to ensure that our military community members have access to ample opportunities for support and professional growth.
This year, we introduced a new position on our board specifically focusing on learning and enablement for our affinity group. Warriors initiated a series of efforts to further empower our military community, including writing at Amazon, navigating your career at Amazon, and university partnerships for our Amazon military community. Additionally, Amazon has military mentoring programs and our Military Ambassador Program for newly transitioned military members.

How does the group collaborate with other affinity groups and diversity initiatives across Amazon?

David: The Warriors group is continuously enhancing its collaboration with other affinity groups, owing to the numerous commonalities that exist among these groups. This year, the Warriors at Amazon and Women at Amazon affinity groups co-hosted an engaging fireside chat and social gathering to commemorate International Women's Day. The event featured a prominent guest, U.S. Army Lieutenant General Jody J. Daniels, who holds the distinction of being the first woman to serve as Chief of the United States Army Reserve and Commander of the United States Army Reserve.

How does the Warriors group help create a sense of belonging and inclusion for veterans at Amazon? How would you describe the work culture at AWS for veterans?

Diana: The Warriors at Amazon group helps create a sense of belonging and inclusion for veterans by providing a supportive community and resources tailored to their unique needs. The group organizes events, mentorship programs, and networking opportunities for veterans, fostering a strong support system within the company.

The work culture at AWS for veterans is known to be inclusive and supportive. AWS values the skills and experience that veterans bring to the table and actively seeks to integrate them into the workforce. The company offers various initiatives, such as training programs and career development opportunities, to help veterans thrive in their roles and transition smoothly into civilian careers.

What advice would you give to other companies looking to support veteran employees through an affinity group?

Diana: To support veteran employees through an affinity group, companies should focus on creating an inclusive environment where veterans feel welcomed and respected. Establishing a dedicated affinity group allows veterans to connect and support each other. Promoting awareness and education about military culture and experiences helps foster understanding among all employees. Offering mentorship, networking opportunities, and resources specific to veterans' needs further supports their professional growth. Recognizing and celebrating their achievements, as well as collaborating with external organizations, can amplify the company's support. Ultimately, the key is to create a workplace culture that values diversity, inclusion, and the unique contributions of veteran employees.

What would you want veterans considering careers at Amazon and AWS to know about our culture and opportunities?

Diana: Veterans considering careers at Amazon and AWS should know that our culture values diversity, inclusion, and collaboration. We strongly support and appreciate the unique skills and experiences that veterans bring to the table. AWS offers a wide range of opportunities across various fields, including cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and machine learning. This includes many opportunities for career growth and skills training that help employees build long-term career pathways.
Our commitment to innovation and continuous learning ensures that veterans can thrive in a dynamic and supportive environment. I encourage veterans to consider joining Amazon and AWS, where your military background and expertise are highly valued, and where you can contribute to solving some of the world's most complex technological challenges.

David: Veterans should consider joining Amazon and AWS because the core values instilled in the military strongly align with Amazon's Leadership Principles. Our commitment to customer obsession parallels the military's unwavering dedication to mission success and service to the nation. Just as the military values integrity, Amazon's Leadership Principle of "ownership" emphasizes taking responsibility for one's actions and decisions. Veterans' experience with teamwork, adaptability, and resilience resonates with many of Amazon's other Leadership Principles as well. Veterans bring a unique set of skills and values that can make a significant impact within the company, where their dedication to excellence, teamwork, and integrity can drive the company's success and help maintain our customer-centric culture.

Diana Van Lunen
AWS Customer Solutions Manager and former director of operations for Warriors at Amazon

David Sopczak
AWS Principal Security Customer Delivery Architect,
Global Board President of Warriors at Amazon

What feedback have you received from veteran employees about the impact of the Warriors group on their experience at Amazon and AWS?

David: The feedback I've received regarding Warriors from numerous members in our community underscores the positive influence it has on their experiences at Amazon. The camaraderie formed through our military backgrounds transcends borders and generations, enabling us to reconnect with our shared stories and experiences. For many, the Warriors community transforms into more than just an affinity group; it becomes a reliable support system when needed, more like a family. Our board diligently strives to create a positive impact for our global community, and the feedback we receive reinforces the success of our endeavors.

Are there any specific programs, events, or achievements of the Warriors group you would like to highlight that show its positive impact?

David: This past year, Warriors had the privilege of participating as volunteers at the Invictus Games held in Dusseldorf, Germany. This experience offered us a valuable chance to demonstrate our unwavering support for our international chapter and fostered excellent networking opportunities for our organization. During the Games, we had the opportunity to cultivate more positive relationships with military personnel in Germany, all while contributing to our recruitment efforts for Amazon by identifying promising talent.

Our Warriors Fulfillment Center (FC) Chapters take a proactive approach to mental health and well-being by hosting yearly events during Suicide Awareness Month. These events are designed to create a supportive and informative environment where managers, employees, and veterans can come together to learn more about this critical subject. With a commitment to erasing the stigma surrounding mental health issues, these gatherings provide a platform for open discussions, education, and access to valuable resources.

What future goals or growth plans do you have for the Warriors group to continue supporting Amazon's veteran workforce?

David: As we continue to expand our presence globally, we look forward to establishing chapters in countries where we do not have a presence today. We will continue to drive new opportunities within Amazon for our military community for career progression, personal growth, and professional development. Looking ahead to 2024, we plan to strengthen our connections with our partner affinity groups, expand our professional development program, and continue to deliver a locally enriched Warriors Week experience for our members.