Coke Florida Recognized as Military Employer of the Year for Commitment to Veterans and Military Families

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For many veterans, the transition from military service to civilian careers can be one of life’s most significant challenges. The leadership, discipline, adaptability and teamwork developed through military service are invaluable, but finding an employer that recognizes and actively supports those strengths can make all the difference.

That’s why Coca-Cola Beverages Florida (Coke Florida) is honored to be recognized as the 2026 Military Employer of the Year by the Bay Area Manufacturers Association (BAMA).

The recognition was presented during BAMA’s inaugural Military Employer Recognition Breakfast, an event celebrating organizations that go above and beyond to support service members, veterans, National Guard members, Reservists and military families. During the event, Coke Florida also signed the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) Statement of Support, reaffirming its commitment to military-associated associates and their families.

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With more than 5,000 associates serving communities across Florida, Coke Florida believes veterans bring unique strengths that help power the company’s success every day. From logistics and operations to manufacturing, sales and leadership roles, military-connected associates contribute a mission-first mindset, resilience and a commitment to teamwork that align closely with the company’s culture and purpose.

“Military service develops leaders who know how to perform under pressure, solve complex challenges and work together to accomplish a shared mission,” said Erin Black, SVP, Sustainability and Risk Management at Coke Florida. “We are proud to create opportunities for veterans, active-duty service members, National Guard members, Reservists and military families to continue building meaningful careers after service. This recognition reflects the incredible contributions of those Champions across our organization.”

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Coke Florida’s commitment extends beyond hiring and recruitment efforts.

Throughout the year, the company recognizes military-associated Champions through Military Appreciation Month and Veterans Day celebrations, associate storytelling initiatives and special recognition programs. The company also supports associates who serve in the Guard and Reserve through military leave benefits that help them fulfill their service commitments while maintaining their connection to Coke Florida.

The company’s support also extends to military families and the broader military community. Recent initiatives have included hosting a Military Family Appreciation Event at MacDill Air Force Base and recognizing children of associates who choose military service through Coke Florida’s Rising Star Program.

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The impact of that commitment can be seen in Champions like Anthony Nelson, whose military experience helped shape his leadership approach and successful transition into project management. His story demonstrates how military-developed skills translate directly into careers in manufacturing, operations and business leadership.

For BAMA, honoring organizations that support military talent is about recognizing employers that understand the value veterans bring to the workforce.

“It was an honor for the Bay Area Manufacturers Association (BAMA) to host our first Military Employer Appreciation Breakfast and recognize the companies that go above and beyond to support our service members and veterans,” said Beth Galic, President of the Bay Area Manufacturers Association. “We’re especially grateful to Coke Florida for the incredible commitment they demonstrate by employing our military community and supporting those who have served. Their dedication is making a real difference.”

The recognition reflects something larger than a workplace initiative. It highlights the important role businesses can play in helping veterans successfully transition to civilian careers while strengthening the communities they continue to serve.

As Coke Florida continues investing in its people, the company remains committed to supporting veterans, active-duty military members, National Guard members, Reservists and military families whose service, leadership and sacrifice continue to make a difference both in uniform and beyond.

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