November 5, 2020
A nation’s leader in testing during the COVID-19 pandemic, MAKO Medical Laboratories was named a North Carolina recipient of the Pro Patria Award from the U.S. Department of Defense’s Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR). In Latin, “pro patria” means “for one’s country” and this award is given to companies in recognition of their support of employees who serve in the National Guard and Reserve. “We are incredibly honored to receive this award,” said Josh Arant, Chief Operating Officer at MAKO Medical. “Supporting our servicemen and women is a core principal at MAKO Medical. We do so because we are grateful for those willing to sacrifice for our country.” At MAKO’s founding, its leaders carved out divisions of the company specifically focused on hiring and supporting U.S. military service members and veterans. Today, MAKO’s logistics, supply chain and procurement teams are made up of almost entirely of reservists and veterans. Their skill sets uniquely qualify them for the ever-changing dynamics of the company. MAKO also offers every veteran training and coaching opportunities as well as skills advancement.
“As a Major in the Army Reserves and an Army veteran, I know the importance of companies supporting reservists,” said Adam Price, MAKO Medical Vice President of Logistics. “Our commitment to employing those who have and continue to serve our country is a core part of who we are. This award is a testament to that commitment, and we dedicate it to our entire team.”
Established in 1972 by the U.S. Department of Defense, Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) works to promote cooperation and understanding between Reserve Service members and their civilian employers. ESGR is supported by a network of more than 3,600 volunteers located across all 50 states. ESGR’s Pro Patria Award is presented annually by each State Committee to one small, one large, and one public sector employer in their state or territory. Recipients have demonstrated the greatest support to Guard and Reserve employees through their leadership and practices, including adopting personnel policies that make it easier for employees to participate in the National Guard and Reserve. This is the highest level award that may be bestowed by an ESGR State Committee.
“MAKO Medical’s work to support our military community truly stands out above the rest,” said Kenneth Oppenheim, CDR, USN (Ret.), Northeast Area Director for ESGR North Carolina. “On behalf of ESGR North Carolina, it is our pleasure to present to you the Pro Patria award in recognition of all that you do for your employees who have served and continue to serve our country.”
In April, MAKO Medical rapidly altered its laboratory services model and began providing COVID-19 testing services. Since then, the College of American Pathologists (CAP) accredited laboratory has processed more than 2 million COVID-19 tests from more than 20 states in the U.S. MAKO partners with medical providers, employers and governments – turning around COVID-19 test results in what one state leader called an “ultra-fast” way. INCLUDED PHOTO: Ken Oppenheim, Northeast Area Director for ESGR North Carolina, presents the ESGR Pro Patria Award to MAKO Medical Chief Operating Officer Josh Arant; Vice President of Logistics, Adam Price; Team Lead, Travis Schwabe; and Team Lead, David Reynolds.