When Aaron Trimble launched into the 2nd Annual Stars and Strides 5K run Saturday morning, he was carrying several labels – Manager, Maintenance and Facilities for Bloom’s growing manufacturing footprint; Air Force veteran, who was proud to celebrate Veteran’s Day with his fellow vets, and Dad, who was with his son Adam matching him stride for stride.
“It is a special day when we can all get together and be outside, exercise and most of all, support a fantastic cause,” he said when asked why he is running. “As a Veteran myself, it says a lot about the company you work for hosting an event that not only raises dollars, but awareness for the needs of veterans that could certainly use the help.”
Aaron Trimble pictured above, right.
Bloom’s Stars and Strides event is an example of the company’s efforts to support and integrate with Newark, with the tri-state area and with families like the Trimbles. The Veteran’s Day event was followed by family-friendly activities, celebrating one of the most revered dates on the military calendar.
The Bloom event has grown over the years, with more than double the number of participants from the inaugural event in 2022. This year’s race raised more than $25,000 dollars. All proceeds benefit veteran and active military across the state through beneficiaries Stop Soldier Suicide and the Delaware National Guard Youth Foundation, two charities deeply devoted to military and veterans’ issues in Delaware.
“I would like to thank everyone for their participation and their support for this great initiative,” said Barry Sharpe, head of Bloom’s Delaware operations. “We have deep appreciation for our active military, our veterans and their loyal families. We celebrate their service today and appreciate their commitment to our country throughout the year.”
Following the 5K run and Veteran’s Day, Bloom Energy is sponsoring for the second consecutive year the University of Delaware’s military appreciation football game on November 18, which features a recognition ceremony and activities honoring the selfless sacrifice of veterans and active military.
Bloom Energy’s workforce in Delaware has grown from one employee in 2013 to nearly 800 currently. About 50 employees on its workforce in Delaware are veterans.
For more information about the 5K and how to participate next year, please visit StarsAndStridesDelaware.com.
