The latest U.S. Department of Energy Employment Report shows the corn ethanol industry continues to lead in employing military veterans and maintaining a diverse workforce.

According to the report, veterans comprise 16 percent of the ethanol workforce, or one out of every six employees, which is higher than any other segment of the U.S. energy sector, 60 percent above the petroleum industry, and more than three times the national workforce average.

“It’s no surprise that so many military veterans have found a home in the ethanol industry. It’s a natural fit for workers who are mission-driven, innovative, and dedicated to strengthening America’s energy security,” said Renewable Fuels Association President and CEO Geoff Cooper, an Army veteran. “Through our Veterans for Renewable Fuels initiative, RFA recognizes the vital contributions of our large veteran workforce, and we are proud to employ so many former military service members.”

The DOE data shows the ethanol industry also outpaces its energy peers in other key categories. Women account for nearly one-third of the ethanol workforce, compared to 24 percent in petroleum fuels and 26 percent across the energy sector. Nearly a quarter of employees are age 55 or older, versus 18 percent in petroleum fuels and 19 percent across the energy sector, and workers with disabilities represent 4 percent of the ethanol workforce, four times more than petroleum fuels and double the overall energy sector.