This is in response to the letter written by Joe Raines from Willmar. Clearly you do not have any resources to form your conclusions.
First, you should realize that Jennie-O and/or other successful companies would never knowingly employ "illegal" immigrants. These companies have been built on ethical and educated business decisions; that is how they are able to make big profits and in return make huge contributions to this and other communities. Every applicant at Jennie-O has to provide official documentation, identification and receive a background check before being considered for employment.
You obviously have no idea of the work environment at Jennie-O; you stated things such as work conditions, hard work, and the nature of the job. Jennie-O has created a very enjoyable work environment with many automated machines and few labor-intensive positions. Most of the positions are skilled positions and require much training. The surroundings are clean, employee-friendly and very rewarding to the employee.
Jennie-O is on the top of the pay scale in the turkey industry. Of course Jennie-O promotes within and the earning potential is totally up to the employee. All employees are offered health, vision, dental, 401(k) and a flex plan. Again this year all employees were awarded cash bonuses and this year 100 stock options. It's a shame more people do not see what Jennie-O has to offer for secure and rewarding career opportunities.
It is true we do have many immigrant workers at our plants. These immigrant workers are looking for the same opportunities we have. They are very dedicated, loyal, happy employees who are looking to better themselves and their families.
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The blame for immigrants is not companies like Jennie-O, it is the lifestyle and opportunities you and I have been offered all our lives. Please do not fool yourself into believing these are bad people. Look at them as people making attempts to better their future by accepting great jobs that our friends and family pass up.
Micheal G. Brown
Willmar
