Walmart is doubling down on its commitment to being not only the best place to shop but also the best place to work in Mississippi.

The company just announced it is starting a new annual bonus program for eligible full- and part-time hourly associates in stores. Approximately 10,000 of the hourly store associates in Mississippi are eligible for this new bonus.

Over the past five years, the retail giant has increased hourly wages by around 30%, bringing the U.S. average hourly wage close to $18. The company has also invested significantly in health care, family benefits, and long-term financial health for its employees, reflecting its holistic approach to employee well-being.

In a significant move to address the national shortage of skilled trade workers, Walmart is launching the Associate to Technician pipeline program. This initiative, starting with 100 associates in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, aims to train hourly store and supply chain workers for roles in facilities maintenance, refrigeration and HVAC, reliability, and automation. These positions offer competitive wages ranging from $19 to $45 an hour, providing substantial career advancement opportunities.

Additionally, Walmart is expanding its Live Better U program by doubling the number of available certificates. These new, Walmart-paid education options can be completed in about four months, as opposed to the years it typically takes to earn a college degree. This initiative is designed to fast-track employees into approximately 100,000 higher-paying and in-demand jobs over the next three years, including leadership roles, pharmacy technicians, opticians, and software engineers.

Walmart has also introduced a new bonus structure for hourly store associates, announced during Associates Week in Northwest Arkansas. This bonus rewards excellent work and customer service, with potential earnings increasing the longer an employee stays with the company, up to $1,000 annually.

Furthermore, Walmart has enhanced its Me@Walmart app with a Total Pay and Benefits feature. This tool provides employees with easy access to their pay, discounts, learning opportunities, and benefits, aiming to simplify their work experience and improve their quality of life.

These initiatives are part of Walmart’s broader, people-focused strategy. The company firmly believes in the potential of its associates, echoing founder Sam Walton’s sentiment: “There’s absolutely no limit to what ordinary people can accomplish if they’re given the opportunity and encouragement to do their best.” Walmart’s ongoing investments in employee growth and well-being underscore its dedication to fostering a supportive and empowering workplace.