Best Places to Work in the Power Industry

Earlier this year, POWER partnered with Best Companies Group (BCG), an organization dedicated to identifying and recognizing outstanding workplaces across various industries, to launch our Best Places to Work in the Power Industry program. The aim of this program is to celebrate companies that foster exceptional work environments. This program provides participating organizations with an opportunity to showcase their commitment to cultivating a positive workplace culture.

POWER decided to partner with BCG to develop this program because it is a leader in helping companies assess and enhance company work environments and cultures. It has a 20-year track record of administering effective custom surveys and partnerships with the world’s top media brands. More than 10,000 companies from around the world participate in BCG programs every year. The group has a massive archive filled with trustworthy data to use as competitive benchmarks to help companies better understand how they’re performing and where they rank among their peers. There’s no denying that BCG’s recognition is credible.

A Time-Consuming but Worthwhile Process

Nominations were accepted for the Best Places to Work program until the end of April. Employee surveys, which included 77 questions on such things as company leadership, corporate culture and communication, work environment, role satisfaction, relationship with supervisor, training, pay and benefits, and overall engagement, were conducted over the spring and early summer time period. Employer surveys, which included another 29 questions focused on company values, policies, and programs, were also conducted during this timeframe. BCG evaluated all the input as it was received, compiled its rankings, and delivered the results to POWER.

There are many benefits of being recognized as a Best Place to Work. First, it can help attract top talent. According to one study, top performers are 30% more likely to apply for jobs with companies recognized as a Best Place to Work. Not surprisingly, workers are more likely to stay with a company when they’re part of such an organization. Therefore, the recognition doesn’t just help a company win the talent war, it can also cut recruiting costs.

Participating in the program can also help in obtaining more business, including more referral business. When potential clients are looking for business partners, they often consider factors such as reputation, expertise, and company culture. Being recognized as a top employer can improve a company’s reputation, give it stronger brand equity, and ultimately, increase business.

Finally, companies that prioritize a positive and inclusive workplace culture are more likely to attract a diverse range of talent, including individuals with different backgrounds and perspectives. This can lead to a more well-rounded and innovative team, which may be better equipped to handle complex issues.

And the Winners Are …

In this year’s program, CS Energy, a leading renewable energy company that develops, designs, and builds solar, storage, and emerging energy projects across the U.S., and Fortress Information Security, a firm that secures critical supply chains and cyber assets from evolving threats, are recognized as POWER’s 2024 Best Places to Work. Congratulations to both companies for creating positive working environments and outstanding company cultures.

In surveys conducted by BCG, the perks that CS Energy employees seem to particularly love included group outings, the company’s annual party, and branded merchandise giveaways. “Our team building events are very successful and fun,” one employee said. CS Energy’s companywide annual party, which is designed to celebrate accomplishments, is a big hit, and to top it off, the company pays for lodging for all attending employees and significant others. Receiving other free stuff is also appreciated. “Employees love the free polo, vest, jackets, water bottles, and other CS Energy branded items the company gives out,” a worker said.

Yet, offering a competitive benefits package and having sound core values doesn’t hurt either. “We are committed to doing right by our employees, the environment, our partners, and the communities in which we work, so that everyone benefits from our efforts,” CS Energy said.

Meanwhile, some of Fortress Information Security’s employees noted that the company’s mission/purpose was an important factor in their job satisfaction. Some also appreciated that the company provides access to learning and development opportunities, and empowers workers to make important decisions. Yet, Fortress’ employees also like free stuff. “We frequently run contests, challenges, and recognition programs that reward employees with prizes and gifts,” the company said.

Notably, Fortress offers an innovative time off policy. “Recognizing the importance of work-life balance, we transitioned from a traditional 15 days of paid time off (PTO) to an unlimited flexible PTO policy. This shift empowers our employees to take the time they need to rest and recharge,” the company said.

“Recognized as one of the Best Places to Work, we are committed to a culture of relentless execution, unwavering positivity, and strategic stewardship,” Fortress said. “We offer competitive compensation, flexible work arrangements, comprehensive health care, and robust learning opportunities. Our environment champions collaboration and quality, making Fortress not just a workplace but a community where innovation thrives. As a beacon of excellence, Fortress not only sets the standard for a successful business but also exemplifies what it means to be a truly great place to work. Here, excellence is not pursued; it is practiced.”

—Aaron Larson is POWER’s executive editor.

[Ed. note: If your company would like to apply for the 2025 Best Places to Work program, please visit: https://bestcompaniesgroup.com/power-best-places-to-work/program-registration/]