Armed Forces Bank Honored as One of America's Best Employers for Women in 2026

Armed Forces Bank: Celebrating Recognition as Top Employer for Women

Armed Forces Bank has achieved a significant milestone by being recognized as one of America’s Best Employers for Women in 2026 by Forbes, a commendation that underscores the bank’s commitment to fostering a supportive environment for its female associates. The recognition highlights the bank’s dedication to creating a workplace where women can thrive in their careers, grow into leadership roles, and effectively balance their personal lives with professional responsibilities.

Located in Leavenworth, Kansas, Armed Forces Bank has been dedicated to serving military families and veterans since its inception in 1907. With a ranking of No. 328 on Forbes’ esteemed list of 700 companies, Armed Forces Bank stands out among its peers.

Paul Holewinski, the CEO of Armed Forces Bank, expressed the importance of this recognition, stating, "This acknowledgment is particularly significant as it is based largely on the insights and experiences of working women." He emphasized the bank's emphasis on providing opportunities for growth and development, ensuring that all associates feel supported in their career journeys.

Understanding the Survey

Forbes, in collaboration with the market research firm Statista, conducted a survey involving over 146,000 women employed by companies with at least 1,000 employees. The survey evaluated organizations on various aspects including career development, parental leave, work-life balance, and support for childcare and eldercare. Additionally, the analysis included how many women occupy executive and board positions, with feedback from current employees carrying significant weight.

This thorough evaluation ultimately led to the selection of the top 700 companies, showcasing a commitment to women's advancement in the workforce.

Women Empowerment and Career Growth

At Armed Forces Bank, women are involved in various roles from banking, management, to executive positions, which reflects the organization’s commitment to inclusivity. According to Jodi Vickery, Executive Vice President and Chief Digital Officer at the bank, the focus is on providing an environment that allows women to develop their skills and advance their careers.

She notes, "Women build careers in various ways and through different seasons of life. It's essential to have opportunities that foster continuous learning and responsibility, along with a supportive culture that values contributions."

Her experiences as the spouse of a retired Army veteran contribute to her understanding of the work-life balance that military families often navigate, reinforcing the importance of flexibility within the bank’s culture.

Armed Forces Bank further extends its commitment to women’s leadership by co-hosting the "Militarily Speaking" podcast, tackling issues relevant to the military community, including financial literacy and career development.

Community Engagement and Support

The bank’s dedication to supporting women goes beyond its internal workforce. Armed Forces Bank is a founding partner of SpouseWorks, a Department of Defense initiative aimed at connecting military spouses with employers committed to their recruitment and retention. This partnership reinforces the bank’s mission to create opportunities for military families, particularly women who often face unique career challenges due to their military affiliations.

In partnership with Hire Heroes USA, the bank also provides valuable resources and coaching for transitioning service members, veterans, and military spouses seeking employment. Since its founding, Hire Heroes USA has assisted over 118,000 individuals in securing employment.

Conclusion

The recognition by Forbes as one of America’s Best Employers for Women highlights Armed Forces Bank’s commitment to fostering a culture that empowers women in the workplace. With a blend of support, flexibility, and community engagement, the bank continues to pave the way for its associates, ensuring that they can build rewarding careers while effectively managing their personal lives. This approach not only strengthens the organization but also enriches the military community it serves, setting a commendable example for others in the sector.

For more information on Armed Forces Bank, visit armedforcesbank.com.