PALMER, ALASKA / AGILITYPR.NEWS / April 03, 2026 / Matanuska Telecom Association (MTA) continues to earn recognition at both the state and national levels for its commitment to supporting employees who serve in the National Guard and Reserve. 

Most recently, MTA was awarded the Pro Patria Award, the highest honor presented by Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) at the state level. The award recognizes employers who demonstrate exceptional support through leadership, workplace policies, and a culture that empowers service members to succeed both professionally and in uniform. 

MTA is also currently a top 30 national finalist for the ESGR Freedom Award, which is the Department of War’s highest recognition for employer support of Guard and Reserve members. 

“We’re dedicated to supporting the Guard, Reserve members, and veterans on our team. Their leadership, adaptability, and service mindset make MTA stronger and our communities better,” said Demian Voiles, Chief Executive Officer of Matanuska Telecom Association. 

A Track Record of Support 

MTA’s recognition is built on years of consistent support: 

• Pro Patria Award (2026) – Highest ESGR state-level honor 

• Above and Beyond Award (2023) – Recognizing extraordinary employer support 

• Patriot Awards (2023, 2025) – Honoring leadership support, including Jessica Gilbert 

• Statement of Support (2025) – Formal commitment to supporting employees in the National Guard and Reserve 

Jessica Gilbert, Director of Marketing & Communications at MTA, has been recognized twice with the Patriot Award. During one nomination, U.S. Army Reserve Staff Sergeant Alexander Medvedev highlighted her leadership: 

“Her empathy, reliability, and commitment to personal and professional growth truly exemplifies outstanding leadership.” 

In addition to these recognitions, MTA leadership has formally signed ESGR’s Statement of Support, reinforcing its ongoing commitment to military employees. 

Supporting Those Who Serve 

As a workforce with many prior service veterans and currently serving Guard and Reserve members, MTA has built a strong reputation as a veteran-supportive employer in Alaska. The organization actively fosters an environment where military obligations are respected, supported, and understood. 

Operating in a state with one of the highest per capita military populations in the nation and a critical role in U.S. defense across the Indo-Pacific and Arctic regions, MTA recognizes the importance of supporting those who serve – both in uniform and at home. 

The Pro Patria Award places MTA among a select group of employers statewide, as ESGR selects only one small, one large, and one public sector employer each year. This recognition underscores MTA’s role as a leading employer for service members and veterans in Alaska.