CORAOPOLIS, Pa. –
A company that was nominated by an Airman from the 171st Air Refueling Wing was selected as one of 15 employers to receive the Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award.
Cordia, a company that operates district energy, combined heat and power, and microgrid plants across the United States, received the award after being nominated by Tech. Sgt. Alec Londino, a member of the 171st ARW who is employed as a Health and Safety Manager for Cordia. Londino nominated the company for its strong support during his deployments and regular military duties.
"Whenever I need time off for military duties, Cordia ensures a smooth transition so I can focus on my mission," Londino said. "Their military leave program, which includes uninterrupted benefits, PTO accrual, and pay matching, makes a big difference."
The Freedom Award is the highest award given by the U.S. government to civilian employers for their support of employees who serve in the National Guard and Reserve. The awards were presented Aug. 22 at the Pentagon.
Cordia manages 13 energy assets across nine states and provides services like steam and hot water for heating, chilled water for cooling, and electricity for microgrid applications. Their customers include downtown districts, universities, hospitals, sports arenas, and convention centers. Cordia was chosen from 1,758 nominations and is one of just 15 companies to receive the award this year. Since the award's start in 1996, only 355 employers nationwide have been honored.
The Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award is given to employers who show outstanding support for their employees who serve in the Guard and Reserve. This includes support during deployments, drill weekends, and annual training events. Cordia's commitment to its military employees serves as a model for other employers.
The 171st Air Refueling Wing, part of the Pennsylvania Air National Guard, provides air refueling and operational support to the U.S. Air Force. Members like Londino serve in both their military roles and as key contributors to their communities. The support of employers like Cordia is essential to their mission.