AEP Helps Employees Answer the Call to Serve

For AEP employees who serve in the military, answering the call shouldn't mean sacrificing their civilian careers or financial security.

Nick Sparks, an AEP Utility Business Development lead and U.S. Army Reserve member, nominated AEP and Tim Wells, VP of Sales, Economic and Business Development, for awards from Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR). The Department of War program supports civilian employers and National Guard and Reserve employees.

Wells received ESGR's Patriot Award, recognizing his support of Sparks's military service, while AEP received the Seven Seals Award for its sustained support of employees who serve.

"I can't overstate how important American Electric Power is to maintaining the readiness of our Reserve components," Bob Skinner, Central Ohio ESGR chairman, said while presenting the awards.

That support includes benefits designed to help ease the financial and career concerns that can come with military service. AEP provides 100% of regular pay for qualifying military training and duty lasting fewer than 30 days and a military pay differential during qualified extended-duty service.

Employees can continue medical, dental and retirement benefits while on military leave. Returning service members also retain their seniority, pay progression and eligibility for merit increases.

For Sparks, a husband and father of four with another child on the way, knowing those resources were available helped give him confidence in his decision to join the Army Reserve.

"Knowing that I had the full support of my employer gave me the confidence to pursue this opportunity," Sparks said.

That support goes beyond financial benefits.

"Having an organization that genuinely values military service and stands behind its employees during that journey has meant more to me and my family than I can adequately express," Sparks said.

Sparks also sees his military service benefiting his work at AEP. Training in leadership, strategic communication, planning, adaptability, cultural awareness and decision-making under pressure can strengthen the skills he uses to serve customers, lead cross-functional teams, manage complex projects and build relationships.

As Sparks wrote in nominating AEP for the Seven Seals Award, the company's support helps employees "answer the call to serve while continuing to contribute at a high level."

Explore opportunities for active-duty service members and veterans.