Eden Prairie, Minnesota (August 24, 2026) — Starkey has been named a recipient of the prestigious 2026 Pro Patria Award, the highest honor presented by a state committee of the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR). The award recognizes Starkey for demonstrating exceptional support for employees serving in the National Guard and Reserve through workplace policies, leadership, and a steadfast commitment to military service members and their families. Starkey was selected as one of only two Minnesota businesses to receive the award this year from hundreds of nominations.
Presented by the Minnesota Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve on behalf of the U.S. Department of Defense, the Pro Patria Award honors organizations that go above and beyond in fostering a culture of support for military-connected employees. Recipients are recognized for creating an environment that enables Guard and Reserve members to successfully balance their professional responsibilities with their service commitments.
Supporting active-duty military personnel, Veterans, and military families is a core pillar of Starkey Cares, the company’s commitment to positively impact lives across the globe. Through partnerships, hearing health initiatives, Veteran-focused outreach, and a workplace culture that values caring and service, Starkey is committed to honoring the sacrifices made by those who serve and ensuring they have the resources needed to thrive.
“Receiving the Pro Patria Award is an incredible honor, but more importantly, it reflects a responsibility we take seriously,” said Brandon Sawlich, President and CEO of Starkey. “The men and women who serve our country bring extraordinary leadership, discipline, and purpose to everything they do, and we believe those qualities make our company stronger. We are proud to support our National Guard and Reserve employees, and Veterans and their families, not simply because it is the right thing to do, but because we believe in the value they bring to Starkey. This award reinforces our commitment to supporting those who serve and creating meaningful opportunities for military members and Veterans at Starkey.”
The recognition highlights Starkey’s ongoing efforts to create a culture that respects and supports military service while providing employees with the flexibility and resources needed to fulfill their commitments to both their careers and their country. ESGR specifically cited employers that demonstrate strong leadership and practices that make it easier for employees to participate in the National Guard and Reserve.
Starkey will be recognized during a pre-game, on-field ceremony at the Minnesota Twins Military Appreciation Day game on September 13, 2026, at Target Field.
Starkey remains committed to supporting those who serve, advancing hearing health for Veterans and active-duty military personnel, and making meaningful difference in the lives of military families across the country.
About Starkey
Starkey is a leading global innovator in hearing technology and AI-powered hearing aids, headquartered in Eden Prairie, Minnesota. Since its founding by Bill Austin in 1967 and led today by Brandon Sawalich, Starkey has driven breakthroughs in unmatched sound clarity and machine learning and intelligent hearing technology. As the only American-owned hearing aid manufacturer, Starkey employs over 5,000 professionals across 29 facilities, delivering advanced hearing solutions to customers in 100+ markets worldwide. Explore our smart hearing devices and connected technologies at www.starkey.com.
