2024 Best Places to Work in Kentucky

June 2024 US $4.95

CELEBRATING 20 YEARS OF BEST PLACES TO WORK IN KENTUCKY

PRESENTED BY

2024 SMALL COMPANY WINNER

Delta Dental of Kentucky, Inc. 2024 MEDIUM COMPANY WINNER

Blue & Co., LLC

2024 LARGE COMPANY WINNER

Amgen

KEY

Fair Chance Employer

Fair Chance Employer

2 What Does It Take to Become a Best Place to Work in Kentucky?

3 Messages from KYSHRM and Kentucky Chamber 4 2024 Winners By the Numbers

8 Winners Hall of Fame 10 Expanding Your Talent Pool 12 The Impact of Civility on Organizational Succes 26 Good Goes Forward: A Commitment of Independence Bank

21 FNB Bank 19 Gray Ice Higdon PLLC 23 Higgins Insurance 21 Hyland Insurance 19 Kentucky Hospital Association 17 Kerr-Greulich Engineers, Inc. 22 Kiriu USA 20 Log Still Distillery 20 Marine Solutions, Inc. 17 Matthew 25 AIDS Services 21 McBrayer PLLC 20 MCF Advisors 19 McGregor & Associates, Inc 22 Metro United Way 19 MiddleGround Capital 24 Mirazon

2024 BEST PLACES TO WORK MEDIUM COMPANIES 34 Abound Credit Union 32 AE Electrical Solutions 37 Associations International LLC 32 BFW/Marcum Engineering 30 Blue & Co., LLC 31 Car-Part.com 37 CHI Saint Joseph Health, Saint Joseph Berea 31 CHI Saint Joseph Health, Saint Joseph Mount Sterling 38 CLARK Material Handling Company 30 Coastal 34 Commonwealth Credit Union

30 Community Financial Services Bank 35 Dean Dorton 33 Dentons 34 East and Westbrook Construction 37 Elizabethtown Community & Technical College 37 Grace Health 38 Independence Bank 32 KECH, Inc. 36 Kentucky Lottery Corporation 36 L&N Federal Credit Union 38 LockNet

2024 BEST PLACES TO WORK LARGE COMPANIES 44 Amgen 51 Addiction Recovery Care, LLC 49 AssuredPartners 51 Bastian Solutions 45 Boardwalk Pipelines 46 Central Bank & Trust Co. 50 CHI Saint Joseph Health, Saint Joseph Hospital 47 CHI Saint Joseph Health, Saint Joseph London

50 Commonwealth Hotels, LLC 52 Consumer Cellular 44 Deloitte 44 Farm Credit Mid-America 51 Galen College of Nursing 49 ISCO Industries 48 Jack Henry 50 LBMC 47 Marquette Transportation Company, LLC

Company is hiring

39 The Most Surprising Way to Reduce Stress and Be More Productive 54 Navigating Gen Z in the Modern Workplace: Strategies for Recruitment and Retention

2024 BEST PLACES TO WORK SMALL COMPANIES 24 Advantum Health 17 Ahead Human Resources 18 All Star Purchasing 21 Bates Security 20 Bim Group 24 Budget for the People 23 CHI Saint Joseph Health, Continuing Care Hospital 17 CHI Saint Joseph Health Partners 17 Collier Associates, Inc. 23 Connected Nation, Inc. 20 Cornerstone Equipment 20 Cornett 16 Delta Dental of Kentucky, Inc. 21 Fahe

We’re hiring!

PG 15 16 19 22 19 23 22 24 23

People Plus, Inc PriceWeber Marketing Rajant Corporation Schmidt Associates Shippers Solutions Stor-Mor Outdoor Products Strategic Marketing Town & Country Bank and Trust Co. 24 United States Hunter Jumper Association 22 US WorldMeds 19 Volta, Inc. 18 Ward, Hocker & Thornton, PLLC 16 Wehr Constructors, Inc.

PG 29 32 Longship 33 Louisville Tile Distributors 38 Park Community Credit Union 32 Ryan Fireprotection 29 Southcentral Kentucky Community & Technical College 35 Stites & Harbison, PLLC 36 STOBER Drives, Inc. 36 UofL Health - Medical Center East 31 UofL Health - Shelbyville Hospital

PG 43 51 New Vista 48 Pathways, Inc. 49 Republic Bank 46 Steptoe & Johnson PLLC 50 T.J. Regional Health 49 Total Quality Logistics 52 UK King’s Daughters 44 Vaco 46 Wieland

What Does It Take to Become a Best Place to Work in Kentucky?

1 8 2 3 7 654 Determine Eligibility

1. Be a publicly or privately held business.

2. Be a for-profit or not-for-profit business or a government entity.

Celebrate

3. Have a facility in the state of Kentucky.

4. Have a minimum of 15 Each year our winning full-time or part-time employees companies gather for a working in Kentucky. celebration where the rankings are announced.

Registration for the Survey Process

Registration for the survey process opens in the fall.

In Kentucky, HR professionals are at the forefront of guiding the workforce through the dynamic landscape of modern work.

These leaders have tackled intricate post-pandemic business hurdles, from crafting ethical policies for telework and artificial intelligence use to opening space for employees to discuss and prioritize mental health. HR professionals persistently devise tactics to attract, recruit, and retain top-tier talent. Serving as invaluable strategic allies to CEOs, HR professionals propel Kentucky’s employers forward with adaptive advantage.

Kentucky SHRM, in collaboration with our 12 local SHRM chapters, provide support to HR professionals by delivering ongoing educational and leadership resources to over 3,000 individuals throughout the Commonwealth. We are committed to leading our organizations and contributing to effective

strategies that bolster the bottom line.

Kentucky SHRM is excited to honor the outstanding employers in our state. We invite you to explore the achievements of these top companies and reach out to them to learn more about their successful approaches and readiness for the future.

Adapt. Connect. Lead.

Congratulations 2024 Best Places to Work Kentucky!

Sincerely,

Patricia Williams, SHRM-SCP Chair, 2024 Kentucky SHRM State Council www.kyshrm.org

Company Assessment

Adjust and Grow

In late fall, surveys are sent out to Kentucky employees. This confidential feedback accounts for 80% of a company’s score.

While employees are providing feedback, the company is completing an employer assessment, which accounts for 20% of a company’s score.

Regardless of whether or not they made the list, participating companies use their survey results to drive change within their organization.

Feedback

Participating companies receive access to the Employee Feedback Data Dashboard with detailed data from the survey process. You will be able to view your percentage of The experts at Workforce positive and negative responses to each Research Group conduct an of the survey questions asked of in-depth analysis of the employees, as well as employee assessment results to determine comments and employee and if a company has what it takes employer benchmarking data. to be the best.

In early 2024, participating The online platform contains companies are notified whether multiple levels of or not they made the list of 100 reporting. companies.

Compiling the Results

Making the List

2 2024 BEST PLACES TO WORK­­

The Kentucky Society for Human Resource Management takes pride in being a founding partner of the Best Places to Work in Kentucky initiative. This program celebrates employers who excel in both employee engagement and business success. To the winning companies, we extend our deepest gratitude for their dedication to making Kentucky a premier workplace.

We are pleased to celebrate the exceptional efforts of 100 companies that have created outstanding workplaces, which is essential to making the Commonwealth a great place for business.

As president of the Kentucky Chamber, I am proud to see so many Kentucky employers that are displaying a strong commitment to their employees. I am thrilled to see that 61 of the 100 companies named in the Best Places to Work competition this year are members of the Kentucky Chamber. From banks to colleges, to health care facilities and manufacturers, this year’s winners represent a diverse cross-section of industries from every corner of the Commonwealth.

workforce development, talent attraction, and business growth. “Kentucky’s Winning Strategy” focuses on key areas that will help ensure growth in all areas of the state.

The Kentucky Chamber is proud to offer the Best Places to Work in Kentucky program, providing a perfect venue to lift up employers that are doing their part to make the Commonwealth the best state in the nation to live, work, and do business.

We thank you for your participation in the Best Places initiative and congratulate you on your efforts!

As we are working together to bring Kentucky’s future to fruition, the Kentucky Chamber has launched a unifying plan for

President & CEO Kentucky Chamber kychamber.com

As the state’s largest business organization, the Kentucky Chamber works tirelessly to represent businesses like yours in the halls of the Capitol, provide innovative programs to advance employers, and lead the Commonwealth to its fullest potential.

Ashli Watts

2024 BEST PLACES TO WORK 3

WINNERS BY THE NUMBERS Created by Slamet Widodo from the Noun Project

The percentage of winning companies that formally recognize individual employee milestones (e.g., birthday, work anniversary, birth/adoption of a child, etc.):

Created by WARHAMMER from the Noun Project

The percentage of winning companies that have a strategy to recruit and retain Generation Z (born 1997 or later) employees:

98 68 %

%

Created by Naba A'la from the Noun Project

The percentage of winning companies that offer formal employee professional development and/or career advancement programs:

99 85% The percentage of winning companies that offer an employee retirement plan:

%

Created by Lars Meiertoberens from the Noun Project

Created by Bold Yellow from the Noun Project

Created by Kukuh Wachyu Bias from the Noun Project

The percentage of winning companies that have a strategy to recruit and retain a diverse workforce (e.g., employees of differing gender, race, sexual orientation, disability, and age):

87

%

4 2024 BEST PLACES TO WORK­­

The percentage of winning companies that offer fully or partially paid leave for the birth/adoption of a child.

79 % 63

Fully or partially paid maternity leave:

%

Fully or partially paid paternity leave:

The percentage of winning companies that have trained their managers to look for and deal with signs of mental stress, fatigue, and/or burnout among their team:

65

%

HOW DO WINNING COMPANIES GIVE BACK TO THE COMMUNITY? an employee 46% implemented volunteer program employees to participate in 78% allow community service during normal business hours without losing pay or using vacation time

90% host drives (food, clothing, toys) employees’ charitable 40% match donations 72% employees to engage with provide opportunities for

local health or human service initiatives

2024 BEST PLACES TO WORK 5

TO THE

2024 WINNERS O F B E S T P L AC E S T O W O R K I N K E N T U C KY !

2024 Kentucky Chamber of Commerce Leadership Board Chair

Chair-Elect

Immediate Past Chair

Candace McGraw CEO Cincinnati/Northern KY International Airport Erlanger

Scott Davis Chairman & CEO Field & Main Bank Henderson

Kevin Smith Kentucky Distilled Spirit Advisors Bardstown

Vice Chair, Administration

Vice Chair, Communications and Marketing

Vice Chair, Membership & Business Services

Amy Luttrell President & CEO Goodwill Industries of Kentucky, Inc. Louisville

Stephen Branscum President & CEO Branscum Construction Company Russell Springs

John Crockett III President LG&E and KU Energy LLC Louisville

Executive Committee Officers and Regional Representatives

Vice Chair, Public Affairs

Treasurer

Chair, Kentucky Chamber Foundation

At-Large Member

Small Business At-Large Member

Condrad Daniels President HJI Supply Chain Solutions Louisville

Brian A. Cromer Member Stites & Harbison, PLLC Louisville

Ray Daniels Co-Founder, President & CEO Equity Solutions Group, LLC Lexington

At-Large Member

At-Large Member

President & CEO

Hollie Harris President & CEO Appalachian Regional Healthcare Lexington

Mark Sommer Member Frost Brown Todd LLC Louisville

Ashli Watts President & CEO Kentucky Chamber of Commerce Frankfort

2024 KYSHRM State Council KYSHRM Chair Elect

KYSHRM Treasurer

KYSHRM Legal Advisor

Best Places to Work in Kentucky Director

Diversity and Inclusion Director

KYSHRM Secretary

Southeastern KYSHRM President

Mid-West SHRM President

Foundation and Philanthropic Director

LaJuana S. Wilcher Partner English Lucas Priest & Owsley, LLP Bowling Green

Chair Emeritus/ Strategic Advisor

Kelley Workman

President Planters Bank, Inc. Hopkinsville

Board of Directors Business leaders from every region in the state who govern the Kentucky Chamber

Martha Argotte HR Director United Southern Bank Western KY

Crystal Balentine Senior Vice President and HR Officer FNB Bank Paducah

Bill Brammell Partner Wicker Brammell PLLC Louisville

Candra Bryant Chief Operating Officer Hanna Resource Group LLC Lexington

Tiffany Cardwell HR Advisory Principal MCM HR Solutions Louisville

Vicki Crawford Senior Human Resource Consultant Hanna Resource Group Cincinnati

Jennifer Dalton Vice President & CHRO First and Farmers Bank Somerset

Charity Franklin Human Resource Director Hanna Resource Group Beechmont

Marcus Goodwin Human Resource Manager Wild Eggs Louisville

Lyle Hanna President & CEO Hanna Resource Group Bluegrass

Mid-South SHRM President

Elizabethtown SHRM President

Immediate Past Chair KYSHRM

Central KYSHRM President

Eastern District Director

Owensboro SHRM President

Four Rivers SHRM President

Western District Director

College Relations Director

Legislative Affairs Director

Cindy Hines COO & Co-Owner C&S Business Group Bowling Green

Debbie Howell Human Resources Director Venminder Elizabethtown

Amanda Huddleston Executive VP People Plus, Inc Bluegrass

Amy Isola Executive VP, Director of Human Resources Farmers National Bank Danville

LaRellen Jones Human Resources Director Family Practice Associates of Lexington, PSC Lexington

Tammy Keller Human Resources Director CRS OneSource Owensboro

Catherine Lanier Vice President, Human Resources The Murray Bank Murray

Summer Lindsey Executive Vice President, Human Resources Pennyroyal Center Western, KY

Sam Mannino Director of Human Resources Bernheim Forest and Arboretum Clermont

Derek Miles Partner DBL Law Louisville

State Conference Director

Central District Director

Southern KYSHRM President

KYSHRM Director

Public Relations Director

Membership Director

Northern KYSHRM President

Workforce Readiness Director

Western KYSHRM President

Jose Najera Sr. Communications & Training Specialist GE Appliances Louisville

Cindy Norfleet Director, Human Resources Communicare Elizabethtown

Louisville SHRM President

Certification Director

Shelly Trent Career Coach, Speaker, Writer, Educator at Your Career Collaborator, LLC Louisville

Allen Waddell Vice President CFSB Community Financial Services Bank Benton

Katie Raney Rob Peach Rawleigh Richardson Director People and Culture Specialist Human Resource Kentucky SHRM State Council Contexture Business Partner Lexington Bowling Green Walgreens Louisville KYSHRM Chair

Bluegrass SHRM President

Rebecca Wren Patricia Williams Chief People and Business Officer Director Resilience and Ronald McDonald House Community Services Lexington Louisville Metro Government Louisville

Veteran / Military Initiatives Director

Patrick Smith Human Resources Manager Stoll Keenon Ogden PLLC Louisville

Rusty Steele Corporate Director Human Resources Oxmoor Auto Group Louisville

Juliane Stockman Manager, University Internships Northern Kentucky University Highland Heights

Danita Taylor Founder and Chief Executive Coach Leadershift Coaching Louisville

Shannon Arvin President & CEO Keeneland Association Lexington

Calvin Barker Regional President Truist Louisville

P. Douglas Barr Managing Director Stoll Keenon Ogden PLLC Lexington

Dr. Stephen Behnke President & CEO Lexington Clinic Lexington

Stephanie Bell Vice President Government Affairs Kinetic by Windstream Lexington

Donovan Blackburn CEO Pikeville Medical Center Pikeville

Melissa Norman Bork Partner Dentons Louisville

Jeff Borkowski CEO ClearPath Specialty Louisville

Mike Buckentin President & CEO Logan Aluminum, Inc. Russellville

Kristen Byrd Regional President PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. Louisville

Ellen Call Senior Director State Government Affairs Charter Communications Louisville

Kimra Cole President & COO Columbia Gas of Kentucky, Inc. Lexington

Patrick Coleman Vice President of Finance and Chief Financial Officer Houchens Industries, Inc. Bowling Green

Gerard Colman CEO Baptist Health Louisville

Paul Costel Region Manager Commercial Banking Chase Louisville

Nick D’Andrea Vice President Government Affairs UPS Louisville

Jeb Duke Regional President Kentucky Medicaid Humana Inc. Louisville

Mason Dyer* President Association of Independent Ky. Colleges and Universities Frankfort

Paige Franklin CEO Aetna, Inc. Louisville

Les Fugate VP and Director, State and Local Public Affairs Brown-Forman Louisville

Kimberly Halbauer Kentucky Regional President Fifth Third Bank, Kentucky Louisville

Chad Harpole Director of Government and Community Affairs Century Aluminum of Kentucky Hawesville

Adam Hinton Vice President Hinton Mills Flemingsburg

Anthony Houston CEO CHI Saint Joseph Health Lexington

Steven Lee President Kentucky Companies CRH Americas Materials Lexington

Steve Merrick President & Owner Merrick Hardwoods, Inc. Somerset

Bill Mudd President & Chief Operating Officer Churchill Downs Inc. Louisville

Kathryn Nash President Kentucky American Water Lexington

Jeff Noel* Secretary Cabinet for Economic Development Frankfort

John Phillips President & CEO AE Electrical Solutions Frankfort

Dr. Ryan Quarles* President Ky. Community & Technical College System Versailles

Tony Reinhart Director, State and Local Government Affairs Ford Motor Company Louisville

Jay Richert Refining General Manager Marathon Petroleum Company, LP Catlettsburg

James Rickard Market Chairman WesBanco Louisville

Tim Robinson Founder & CEO Addiction Recovery Care Louisa

Carlos Sanchez President AT&T Kentucky Louisville

Kevin Shurn President Superior Maintenance Co. Elizabethtown

Brad Smith Partner Cherry Bekaert Louisville

Billy Spears Vice President Global Service Delivery and Supply Chain Operations Lexmark International Lexington

Amy Spiller State President Ohio and Kentucky Duke Energy Cincinnati, OH

Aaron Thompson* President Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education Frankfort

Purna Veer Founder & President V-Soft Consulting Louisville

Cathy Waddell CFO Nucor Ghent

Art Walker, III President Walker Construction Mount Sterling

Kennan Wethington President, Kentucky Commercial Business Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kentucky Louisville

Elmer K. Whitaker CEO Whitaker Bank, Inc. Lexington

Sarah Whitaker Owner Williams Advertising Hopkinsville

Cindy Wiseman President & COO AEP-Kentucky Power Company Ashland

Autum Thomas Senior Human Resource Generalist STANLEY Engineered Fastening Hopkinsville

* Ex-Officio

HALL OF

FAME

5

Welcome to the Best Places to Work in Kentucky HALL OF FAME!

years

CHI SAINT JOSEPH HEALTH, SAINT JOSEPH LONDON COMMUNITY FINANCIAL SERVICES BANK KECH, INC. KENTUCKY LOTTERY CORPORATION KERR-GREULICH ENGINEERS, INC. METRO UNITED WAY MIDDLEGROUND CAPITAL PRICEWEBER MARKETING UNITED STATES HUNTER JUMPER ASSOCIATION VOLTA, INC.

10

years

SOUTHCENTRAL KENTUCKY COMMUNITY & TECHNICAL COLLEGE SKYCTC’s mission is to improve South Central Kentucky’s economic prosperity through higher education focused on career development, community partnerships, and economic growth.

Because of our student focused mission SKYCTC has created a culture of caring that provides a nurturing environment for our students as well as our faculty and staff. SKYCTC has become known for our culture of caring that shines through our faculty, staff, and students, and has been described as our “special sauce.” This culture of caring allows our employees to do their best work and for students to thrive and succeed.

ASSUREDPARTNERS At AssuredPartners, we take our motto “Power Through Partnership” very seriously, especially internally with our employees. We pride ourselves on supporting the growth & development of our employees while creating a positive work/ life balance. We listen to our employee’s needs & actively work on creating new programs, events, & trainings to continue to invest in a positive work environment that contributes to the overall satisfaction of our employees.

20

15

years 8 2024 BEST PLACES TO WORK­­

Our 10-, 15- and 20-Year Winners for 2024 answer the question: “Why do you think your company has made the list for this number of years?”

DEAN DORTON

years

We are honored to be a Best Place to Work in Kentucky for the 20th year in a row. At Dean Dorton, we know that our greatest asset is our people, and we would not be where we are today without them. We listen to our people to create an environment that continues to retain and attract talent, despite the changing landscape of the workforce and public accounting.

Over the years, we have listened to team members as they have asked for enhanced time off policies, more flexibility, and increased internal communication. We have adapted our policies and culture while staying true to our core values as a firm. Dean Dorton treats its team members like the professionals they are and fosters an environment for continued learning and growth. Our leadership team is transparent and communicative, creating a space where team members feel heard, seen, and valued. No matter what changes around us, we are steadfast in our commitment to the value of our team members.

2024 BEST PLACES TO WORK 9

E X PA N D I N G

your talent pool

I

n today’s competitive job market, finding and retaining top talent is critical to a company’s success.

Expanding your talent pool isn’t just a goal; it’s essential for organizational success and creates a dynamic, diverse, and innovative workforce. At the Kentucky Chamber Foundation, we offer two specific innovative programs designed to aid business owners in broadening their recruitment efforts and securing the best talent available.

Acknowledging the valuable skills and experiences veterans bring, the Kentucky Chamber Foundation has taken a proactive step by launching the Military Hiring Academy, presented by the Cincinnati/ Northern Kentucky International Airport. This groundbreaking initiative commenced its inaugural cohort with 40 attendees representing 31 Kentucky businesses in February 2024. The Academy aims to equip businesses with the training and experiences necessary to find, hire, and retain military talent, including veterans, transitioning service members, and military spouses. By bridging the gap between businesses’ employment needs and the military community’s quest for meaningful civilian employment, the Academy also assists companies in identifying appropriate support services for their hiring and retention needs.

The inaugural cohort saw enthusiastic participation from employers, state leaders, and veterans. Tailored workshops, activities, and networking opportunities were provided to maximize

10 2024 BEST PLACES TO WORK­­

participants’ potential in military hiring practices. Through interactive sessions and simulations, employers gained insights into the military experience and effective strategies for recruiting and retaining military talent. Additionally, participants were able to build connections within the military community and explored available local, state, and federal resources to support employers in this endeavor.

Putting their knowledge to the test, participants attended hiring events at Ft. Knox or Ft. Campbell, resulting in many employers receiving resumes or engaging in discussions with prospective hires. Feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive, with 100% of surveyed employers indicating they would recommend the Military Hiring Academy to others.

One employer stated, “Attendance of the Military Hiring Academy broadened our knowledge and provided our organization with valuable resources, new perspectives, and innovative ideas for recruitment, hiring, and retention in the military community, and we look forward to leveraging the insights and knowledge gained in the Military Hiring Academy to enhance our recruitment, hiring, and retention.” Kentucky Chamber President and CEO Ashli Watts stated, “This inaugural Military Hiring Academy exemplifies the business community’s commitment to supporting our military veterans and their spouses by providing valuable training to Kentucky employers.” Candace McGraw, CEO of Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport, emphasized the importance of aiding military personnel and their families in transitioning to civilian life through initiatives like the Military Hiring Academy.

The Military Hiring Academy consisted of two full-day training sessions at the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce office in Frankfort in February and job fairs at Fort Knox and Fort Campbell. Business leaders who completed the program were awarded the Society for Human Resource Management “Veterans at Work” certificate. The Kentucky Chamber Foundation will select another cohort of employers for next year’s Military Hiring Academy. For more information, visit www.kychamber.com/militaryhiring-academy.

In addition to the Military Hiring Academy, the Kentucky Chamber Foundation is dedicated to fostering inclusivity and providing opportunities for individuals from diverse experiences and backgrounds. One such initiative is the Fair Chance Academy, a workshop designed to train and educate employers on bridging the gap between recovery from substance use disorder, justice involvement, and employment.

The Fair Chance Academy offers a comprehensive curriculum that equips employers with the knowledge, tools, and resources necessary to create inclusive hiring practices and support individuals seeking meaningful employment. Through interactive sessions and expert-led workshops, participants learn about the unique challenges individuals face in recovery or with justice involvement and explore strategies for providing them with fair and equitable employment opportunities.

The Academy emphasizes the importance of offering second chances, creating a supportive employment environment, and breaking down barriers to employ-

ment for individuals who have overcome substance use disorder or justice involvement. By fostering understanding and empathy among employers, the Fair Chance Academy aims to create a more inclusive workforce that values the potential and contributions of every individual. Participants also have the opportunity to connect with community organizations and support services that provide additional resources and assistance. They will also participate in a reentry simulation, which is an entertaining yet informative way to learn about the challenges of reentry.

The Fair Chance Academy exemplifies the Kentucky Chamber Foundation’s commitment to creating a more diverse, inclusive, and accepting workforce while allowing individuals to rebuild their lives and contribute to their communities.

By investing in initiatives like the Fair Chance Academy, businesses expand their talent pool and play a crucial role in promoting social equity and economic empowerment by leading the communities in which they live and operate.

To learn more about the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Fair Chance Academy and other programs, please visit kentuckycomeback.com/ fairchanceacademy/.

About the Authors Callie Miracle, cmiracle@kychamber. com, Workforce Development Manager Ryan Bowman, rbowman@kychamber. com, Workforce Development Manager

2024 BEST PLACES TO WORK 11

The Impact of

CIVILITY on Organizational Success

safe at work, which can impede collaboration. These workers are significantly less likely to believe they can share their honest thoughts without fear at work percent and significantly more likely to believe they must filter much of what they say at work percent compared to those who did not experience or witness incivility in the past week (56 percent versus 72 percent and 45 percent versus 33 percent, respectively).

The Ripple Effect of Incivility The repercussions of incivility go beyond individual experiences to harm broader organizational culture. Over half (55 percent) of U.S. workers who have experienced or witnessed incivility in their workplace say the behaviors or acts they observed were consistently committed by the same person or group of people. Recurring incivility can create mistrust, impede communication and harm productivity within an organization, as workers strive to avoid engaging with certain colleagues.

Creating a Culture of Civility ByJesse Stanchak

F

ostering a culture of civility in the workplace is not just a matter of politeness—it’s a strategic imperative. New SHRM research highlights the connection between civil workplaces and positive business outcomes. The data underscores the critical role of civility in driving bottom-line results, from employee satisfaction to organizational turnover.

Understanding the Landscape: Perception vs. Reality The survey reveals an interesting dichotomy: While most U.S. workers (85 percent) and HR professionals (88 percent) perceive their workplaces as generally

12 2024 BEST PLACES TO WORK­­

From SHRM.org

civil, many workers (55 percent) report experiencing or witnessing incivility at work within the past week. Almost half of U.S. workers (49 percent) who experienced or witnessed incivility in the workplace did not report it to HR or a manager, making it harder for organizations to detect and deter these behaviors.

This dissonance between perception and reality underscores the pervasive nature of workplace dynamics and the importance of addressing incivility proactively.

The Cost of Incivility Incivility in the workplace has tangible costs. Workers who rate their workplace

as uncivil are more than three times as likely to be dissatisfied with their job percent and more than twice as likely to leave their job in the next year percent than those who rate their workplace as civil (28 percent versus 9 percent and 38 percent versus 17 percent, respectively).

Additionally, HR professionals who rate their workplace as uncivil are twice as likely to report high or very high turnover percent than those who rate their workplace as civil (36 percent versus 18 percent).

Moreover, workers who experienced or witnessed incivility within the past week are less likely to feel psychologically

This issue is likely to become even more pressing in the months leading up to the 2024 election, as political disagreements make their way into the workplace.

The survey found 39 percent of HR professionals and 33 percent of U.S. workers believe workplace conflict will increase over the next 12 months. The good news is that business leaders can help change their organization’s culture.

More than three-quarters of U.S. workers say people managers (84 percent), senior management (84 percent) and executives (79 percent) are “important” or “very important” to achieving a culture of civility in their organization.

Next Steps for Leaders Business leaders must prioritize civility as a cornerstone of organizational culture.

Here are some actionable steps to foster a more civil and productive workplace: • Set Expectations: Leadership sets the tone for organizational culture.

Leaders should model respectful behavior and communicate that they expect the same while setting meaningful guardrails around political discussions.

• Promote Awareness: Raise employees’ awareness of the impact of civility and proper management of workplace conflict on organizational success.

Provide training and resources to empower employees to recognize and address uncivil behavior effectively.

• Establish Clear Policies: Implement clear policies for addressing incivility in the workplace that are consistent with regulations. Encourage employees to report incidents of misconduct without fear of reprisal, and ensure swift and equitable resolution processes.

• Invest in Inclusion, Equity and Diversity (IE&D): Establishing effective IE&D programs can help foster a culture of belonging and respect for all employees. Provide education and resources to foster cultural competence and mitigate unconscious bias.

• Encourage Civil Conversations: Business leaders can promote civility by fostering civil conversations in the workplace. In 2024, SHRM is challenging organizations to launch 1 million civil conversations. Join the movement and make civility part of your culture.

For more information, learn how you can be a catalyst for civility in your organization: www.shrm.org/topics-tools/ topics/civility#sortCriteria=relevancy %2C%40ytlikecount%20descending .

Reprinted with permission from SHRM.org. © 2024. All rights reserved.

SMALL COMPANIES BETWEEN 15–149 U.S. EMPLOYEES

NO. 1: Delta Dental of Kentucky, Inc.

Thank You Sponsors!

PRESENTING

PLATINUM GOLD

SILVER

2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23

Wehr Constructors, Inc. PriceWeber Marketing People Plus, Inc CHI Saint Joseph Health Partners Collier Associates, Inc. Kerr-Greulich Engineers, Inc. Ahead Human Resources Matthew 25 AIDS Services All Star Purchasing Ward, Hocker & Thornton, PLLC Schmidt Associates Volta, Inc. Gray Ice Higdon PLLC McGregor & Associates, Inc. Kentucky Hospital Association MiddleGround Capital Cornerstone Equipment MCF Advisors Marine Solutions, Inc. Bim Group Log Still Distillery Cornett

24 McBrayer PLLC 25 Bates Security 26 FNB Bank 27 Hyland Insurance 28 Fahe 29 Metro United Way 30 Rajant Corporation 31 Kiriu USA 32 US WorldMeds 33 Stor-Mor Outdoor Products 34 Connected Nation, Inc. 35 Town & Country Bank and Trust Co 36 Shippers Solutions 37 Higgins Insurance 38 CHI Saint Joseph Health, Continuing Care Hospital 39 Advantum Health 40 Strategic Marketing 41 Mirazon 42 United States Hunter Jumper Association 43 Budget for the People

BRONZE

2024 BEST PLACES TO WORK 15

SMALL COMPANIES

SMALL COMPANIES

1

5

7

DELTA DENTAL OF KENTUCKY, INC. Previous Rank: 3 No. of Years Ranked: 9 Industry: Healthcare Insurance/Services Primary Location: Louisville No. of Kentucky Employees: 84 No. of U.S. Employees: 84

3

2 WEHR CONSTRUCTORS, INC. Previous Rank: 9 No. of Years Ranked: 6 Industry: Construction Primary Location: Louisville No. of Kentucky Employees: 94 No. of U.S. Employees: 128 Survey Administrator: Katrina Dietrich, Senior Human Resources Manager Company Executive: Brandon Berry, Chief Executive Officer Web Address: www.wehrconstructors.com

CELEBRATING

Survey Administrator: Paige Greenwell, Director, Human Resources Company Executive: J. Jude Thompson, President & CEO Web Address: www.deltadentalky.com

20 years

OF BEST PLACES TO WORK IN KENTUCKY

16 2024 BEST PLACES TO WORK­­

PRICEWEBER MARKETING Previous Rank: 8 No. of Years Ranked: 5 Industry: Advertising/Marketing/PR Primary Location: Louisville No. of Kentucky Employees: 33 No. of U.S. Employees: 35 Survey Administrator: Tamara Davis, Director of PR & Social Media Company Executive: Fred Davis, President & CEO Web Address: www.priceweber.com

4 PEOPLE PLUS, INC Previous Rank: 10 No. of Years Ranked: 12 Industry: Staffing Fair Chance Primary Location: Madisonville Employer No. of Kentucky Employees: 17 No. of U.S. Employees: 17 Survey Administrator: Amanda Huddleston, President Company Executive: Amy Sanderson, CEO Web Address: www.peopleplusinc.com

CHI SAINT JOSEPH HEALTH PARTNERS Previous Rank: 28 No. of Years Ranked: 3 Industry: Healthcare - Insurance/Services Primary Location: Lexington No. of Kentucky Employees: 29 We’re No. of U.S. Employees: 29 hiring!

Survey Administrator: Kristen Brown, Market Director - Operations Company Executive: Dorothy Lockhart, Market Vice President Web Address: www.chisaintjosephhealthpartners.org

Spotlight Profile CHI Saint Joseph Health Partners is a care management company with a network of primary care providers, specialists, hospitals, ancillary services, skilled nursing facilities and agencies that collaborate to ensure that their patients conveniently receive the highest quality of care and value.

Nearly 3,000 Kentucky providers participate in the network.

Our care management team, leveraging state-of-the-art information systems, coordinates care for patients of all ages across our service area. CHI Saint Joseph Health Partners is one of the most advanced Medicare-certified Accountable Care Organization in Kentucky. As part of CHI Saint Joseph Health, our vision is a healthier future for all, inspired by faith, driven by innovation, and powered by humanity. We are able to take our mission beyond our facility walls by bringing our direct to employer product into the marketplace. This expands our reach into our community, bringing the healing presence of God directly to our patients.

6 COLLIER ASSOCIATES, INC. Previous Rank: Not Previously Ranked No. of Years Ranked: 1 Industry: Engineering Primary Location: Calvert City No. of Kentucky employees: 28 No. of U.S. employees: 28 Survey Administrator: Cameron Williams, VP of Engineering Company Executive: Greg Peyton, Owner - President Web Address: www.collierassociatesinc.com

KERR-GREULICH ENGINEERS, INC. Previous Rank: 5 No. of Years Ranked: 5 Industry: Engineering Primary Location: Louisville No. of Kentucky Employees: 37 No. of U.S. Employees: 37 Survey Administrator: Kim Ratcliffe, HR Company Executive: Benjamin Gries, President Web Address: www.kerr-greulich.com

8 AHEAD HUMAN RESOURCES Previous Rank: Not Previously Ranked No. of Years Ranked: 1 Industry: Temporary Staffing, Employee Leasing, PEO, ASO, HR Outsourcing, & Payroll Primary Location: Louisville No. of Kentucky Employees: 16 No. of U.S. Employees: 16 Survey Administrator: Kristi Hagan-Mullins, President Company Executive: Kyle Smith, CEO/Counsel Web Address: www.aheadhr.com

9 MATTHEW 25 AIDS SERVICES Previous Rank: 36 No. of Years Ranked: 2 Fair Chance Industry: Non-Profit Employer Primary Location: Henderson No. of Kentucky Employees: 56 No. of U.S. Employees: 67 Survey Administrator: Kendall Genet, Human Resources Manager Company Executive: Courtney Woolfork, Chief Executive Officer Web Address: www.matthew25clinic.org

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SMALL COMPANIES

10 ALL STAR PURCHASING Previous Rank: 25 No. of Years Ranked: 6 Industry: Purchasing Primary Location: Lexington No. of Kentucky Employees: 18 No. of U.S. Employees: 18 Survey Administrator: Caroline Neal, Human Resource Representative Company Executive: Bruce Daily, Chief Executive Officer Web Address: www.allstarpurchasing.com

SMALL COMPANIES

11 WARD, HOCKER & THORNTON, PLLC Previous Rank: 7 No. of Years Ranked: 6 Industry: Legal Primary Location: Lexington No. of Kentucky Employees: 51 No. of U.S. Employees: 51 Survey Administrator: Becky Haggard, Firm Administrator Company Executive: Gregg Thornton, Managing Partner Web Address: www.whtlaw.com

12 SCHMIDT ASSOCIATES Previous Rank: Not Previously Ranked No. of Years Ranked: 1 Industry: Architecture Primary Location: Louisville No. of Kentucky Employees: 23 No. of U.S. Employees: 133 Survey Administrator: Parveen Tai, HR Manager Company Executive: Sarah Hempstead, CEO Web Address: www.schmidt-arch.com

13 VOLTA, INC. Previous Rank: Last ranked in 2022 No. of Years Ranked: 5 Industry: Technology Primary Location: Frankfort No. of Kentucky Employees: 39 No. of U.S. Employees: 39 Survey Administrator: Shana Watson, Director of HR and Administration Company Executive: Marshall Butler, President Web Address: www.voltainc.com

14 GRAY ICE HIGDON PLLC Previous Rank: Not Previously Ranked No. of Years Ranked: 1 Industry: Legal Primary Location: Louisville No. of Kentucky Employees: 56 No. of U.S. Employees: 57 Survey Administrator: Michael Smith, HR Director Company Executive: Elisabeth Gray, Principal Partner Web Address: www.grayice.com

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15 MCGREGOR & ASSOCIATES, INC. Previous Rank: Last ranked in 2018 No. of Years Ranked: 6 Industry: Employee Benefits Administrator and Consultants Primary Location: Lexington No. of Kentucky Employees: 28 No. of U.S. Employees: 28 Survey Administrator: Todd Wetzel, President Company Executive: Todd Wetzel, President Web Address: http://www.mcgregoreba.com

16 KENTUCKY HOSPITAL ASSOCIATION Previous Rank: 23 No. of Years Ranked: 2 Industry: Non-Profit Primary Location: Louisville No. of Kentucky Employees: 39 No. of U.S. Employees: 39 Survey Administrator: Ginger Dreyer, Senior Director of Communications Company Executive: Nancy Galvagni, President and CEO

Web Address: www.kyha.com

17 MIDDLEGROUND CAPITAL Previous Rank: 2 No. of Years Ranked: 5 Industry: Finance Primary Location: Lexington No. of Kentucky Employees: 99 No. of U.S. Employees: 114 Survey Administrator: Karyn Blunt, Human Capital Associate Company Executive: John Stewart, Managing Partner Web Address: www.middleground.com

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SMALL COMPANIES

18 CORNERSTONE EQUIPMENT Previous Rank: Not Previously Ranked No. of Years Ranked: 1 Industry: Agriculture, Construction and Industrial Sales and Service

Primary Location: Dry Ridge No. of Kentucky Employees: 44 No. of U.S. Employees: 44 Survey Administrator: Alicia Turner, HR Manager Company Executive: Devin Ponder, President / CEO / Owner Web Address: www.kycornerstone.com

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SMALL COMPANIES

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BIM GROUP Previous Rank: 17 No. of Years Ranked: 19 Industry: Insurance (healthcare) Primary Location: Lexington No. of Kentucky Employees: 34 No. of U.S. Employees: 34 Survey Administrator: Heather Taylor, Sr. Director of Operations Company Executive: L. Briggs Cochran, CEO Web Address: www.bimgroup.us

MCBRAYER PLLC Previous Rank: Not Previously Ranked No. of Years Ranked: 1 Industry: Legal Primary Location: Lexington No. of Kentucky Employees: 120 No. of U.S. Employees: 120 Survey Administrator: Alison Begor, Chief Human Resources Officer Company Executive: James H. Frazier, III, Managing Member Web Address: www.mcbrayerfirm.com

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MCF ADVISORS Previous Rank: 16 No. of Years Ranked: 6 Industry: Finance Primary Location: Lexington No. of Kentucky Employees: 33 No. of U.S. Employees: 33 Survey Administrator: Sarah Huster, Chief of Staff / Marketing & Business Development Officer Company Executive: Dave Harris, Jr., CEO Web Address: www.mcfadvisors.com

LOG STILL DISTILLERY Previous Rank: Not Previously Ranked No. of Years Ranked: 1 Industry: Manufacturing/Hospitality Primary Location: Gethsemane, New Haven No. of Kentucky employees: 104 No. of U.S. employees: 104 Survey Administrator: Renee White, VP, Human Resources Company Executive: John W. (Wally) Dant III, President Web Address: www.logstilldistillery.com

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MARINE SOLUTIONS, INC. Previous Rank: 20 No. of Years Ranked: 7 Industry: Engineering Primary Location: Nicholasville No. of Kentucky Employees: 60 No. of U.S. Employees: 116 Survey Administrator: Blair Flowers, Director of Marketing Company Executive: Amy Wilkins, PE,

CORNETT Previous Rank: 14 No. of Years Ranked: 4 Industry: Advertising/PR/Marketing Primary Location: Lexington No. of Kentucky Employees: 50 No. of U.S. Employees: 50 Survey Administrator: Emmy Hartley, COO Company Executive: Christy Hiler, CEO & Owner Web Address: www.teamcornett.com

25 BATES SECURITY Previous Rank: Not Previously Ranked No. of Years Ranked: 1 Industry: Technology Primary Location: Lexington No. of Kentucky Employees: 88 We’re No. of U.S. Employees: 121 hiring!

Survey Administrator: Jessica Pin, Marketing and Communications Manager Company Executive: Jeremy Bates, President Web Address: www.batessecurity.com

Spotlight Profile Bates Security is a company that is passionate about building a great business while enabling personal success.

Working at Bates Security is like being part of a family, with the bonus of getting paid for it. We take pride in celebrating milestones together and participating in community events. We are excited to continue expanding our business, but we can only achieve this with motivated and successful individuals who share our values. Our culture is of utmost importance to us, and we always strive to do what is right for our employees, customers, and vendors.

26 FNB BANK Previous Rank: 4 No. of Years Ranked: 4 Industry: Banking Primary Location: Multiple Cities No. of Kentucky Employees: 128 No. of U.S. Employees: 128 Survey Administrator: Crystal Balentine, SVP/HR Officer Company Executive: Sally Hopkins, President and CEO Web Address: www.growwithfnb.com

27 HYLAND INSURANCE Previous Rank: 13 No. of Years Ranked: 2 Industry: Insurance – Non-Healthcare and Healthcare Primary Location: Louisville No. of Kentucky employees: 35 No. of U.S. employees: 36 Survey Administrator: Melissa Stewart, COO Company Executive: Mr. Terry Hyland, President Web Address: www.hylandins.net

28 FAHE Previous Rank: 27 Fair Chance No. of Years Ranked: 8 Employer Industry: Non-Profit Primary Location: Berea No. of Kentucky Employees: 99 No. of U.S. Employees: 99 Survey Administrator: Norma Edwards, VP of Human Resources Company Executive: Sara Morgan, President Web Address: www.fahe.org

President and CEO

Web Address: www.MSImarinesolutions.com

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2024 BEST PLACES TO WORK 21

SMALL COMPANIES

29 METRO UNITED WAY Previous Rank: 21 No. of Years Ranked: 5 Industry: Non-Profit Primary Location: Louisville No. of Kentucky Employees: 65 No. of U.S. Employees: 65 Survey Administrator: Joanna Erny, Chief of Staff Company Executive: Adria Johnson, President & CEO Web Address: www.metrounitedway.org

30 RAJANT CORPORATION Previous Rank: 40 No. of Years Ranked: 4 Industry: Manufacturing Primary Location: Morehead No. of Kentucky Employees: 41 No. of U.S. Employees: 148 Survey Administrator: Alice DiSanto, VP of Global Marketing Company Executive: Robert Schena, Chairman, CEO, and Co-founder Web Address: www.rajant.com

Spotlight Profile Rajant Corporation is the broadband communications technology company that invented Kinetic Mesh® networking, BreadCrumb® wireless nodes, and InstaMesh® networking software. With Rajant, customers can rapidly deploy a highly adaptable and scalable network that leverages the power of real-time data to deliver on-demand, mission-critical business intelligence. A low-latency, high-throughput, and secure solution for a variety of data, voice, video, and autonomous applications, Rajant’s Kinetic Mesh networks provide industrial customers with full mobility, allowing them to take their private network applications and data anywhere. With successful deployments in more than 80 countries for customers in military, mining, ports, rail, oil & gas, petrochemical plants, municipalities, and agriculture.

Rajant is headquartered in Malvern, Pennsylvania, with additional facilities and offices in Arizona and Kentucky.

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SMALL COMPANIES

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KIRIU USA Previous Rank: Not Previously Ranked No. of Years Ranked: 1 Industry: Manufacturing Primary Location: Bowling Green No. of Kentucky Employees: 81 No. of U.S. Employees: 81 Survey Administrator: Mark Perdue, President Company Executive: Mark Perdue, President Web Address: www.kiriuusa.com

CONNECTED NATION Previous Rank: 34 No. of Years Ranked: 13 Industry: Telecommunications Primary Location: Bowling Green No. of Kentucky Employees: 59 No. of U.S. Employees: 59 Survey Administrator: Melanie Hatfield, HR Manager Company Executive: Tom Ferree, Chairman & CEO Web Address: www.connectednation.org

32 US WORLDMEDS Previous Rank: Last ranked in 2022 No. of Years Ranked: 6 Industry: Life Science/Biotechnology Primary Location: Louisville No. of Kentucky Employees: 64 No. of U.S. Employees: 91 Survey Administrator: Catherine Bassett, Manager, Human Resources Company Executive: P. Breckinridge Jones, CEO Web Address: www.usworldmeds.com

35 TOWN & COUNTRY BANK AND TRUST CO Previous Rank: 29 No. of Years Ranked: 13 Industry: Banking Primary Location: Bardstown No. of Kentucky Employees: 89 No. of U.S. Employees: 89 Survey Administrator: Linda Gordon, Asst. VP and Human Resources Manager Company Executive: David Greenwell, President and CEO

33 STOR-MOR OUTDOOR PRODUCTS Previous Rank: Not Previously Ranked No. of Years Ranked: 1 Industry: Retail Primary Location: Mayfield No. of Kentucky employees: 78 No. of U.S. employees: 78 Survey Administrator: Terry Stewart, Human Resource Manager Company Executive: Darren Warren, CEO, Chris Burnett, Owner Web Address: www.stormor.com

Web Address: www.mytcbt.bank

36 SHIPPERS SOLUTIONS Previous Rank: 37 No. of Years Ranked: 2 Industry: Transportation/Distribution Primary Location: Louisville No. of Kentucky Employees: 63 No. of U.S. Employees: 63 Survey Administrator: Heather NIx, Executive Assistant Company Executive: Henry Camp, CEO Web Address: www.SSCo.pro

37 HIGGINS INSURANCE Previous Rank: 41 No. of Years Ranked: 2 Industry: Insurance – Non-Healthcare and Healthcare Primary Location: Hopkinsville No. of Kentucky Employees: 33 No. of U.S. Employees: 33 Survey Administrator: Tonya Fleming, HR Manager Company Executive: Brad Bolinger, President & CE Web Address: www.higginsinsurance.com

38 CHI SAINT JOSEPH HEALTH, CONTINUING CARE HOSPITAL Previous Rank: Not Previously Ranked No. of Years Ranked: Industry: Healthcare Provider/Social Care Primary Location: Lexington No. of Kentucky Employees: 59 We’re No. of U.S. Employees: 59 hiring!

Survey Administrator: Micah Eastham, Human Resources Business Partner Company Executive: Bob Desotelle, CEO Web Address: www.chisaintjosephhealth.org

Spotlight Profile We believe we are called to serve, not only our communities, but also our employees. We strive to recognize the importance of every person to our organization in pursuit of our mission in tangible ways, such as a culture that promotes support of individuals by the organization, their leaders and their colleagues. We have robust communications that aim to engage, inform and educate employees so they have all the information they need to perform, and feel supported in, their work. Various programs allow us to continue to recognize the important roles our employees play in the success of our service to patients and communities.

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SMALL COMPANIES

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ADVANTUM HEALTH Previous Rank: Not Previously Ranked No. of Years Ranked: 1 Industry: Technology Primary Location: Louisville No. of Kentucky Employees: 126 No. of U.S. Employees: 126 Survey Administrator: Russell Goodwin, Marketing & Events Director Company Executive: Tammy Taylor, CEO Web Address: www.advantumhealth.com

UNITED STATES HUNTER JUMPER ASSOCIATION Previous Rank: 38 No. of Years Ranked: 5 Industry: Non-Profit We’re Primary Location: Lexington hiring!

No. of Kentucky Employees: 43 No. of U.S. Employees: 43 Survey Administrator: Chase Adams, HR Manager Company Executive: Kevin Price, Executive Director Web Address: www.ushja.org

Spotlight Profile

40 STRATEGIC MARKETING Previous Rank: 42 No. of Years Ranked: 9 Industry: Advertising/Marketing/PR Primary Location: Louisville No. of Kentucky Employees: 60 No. of U.S. Employees: 61 Survey Administrator: Courtney Kelley, Senior Digital Marketing Coordinator Company Executive: Todd Strause, CEO Web Address: www.strategicmarketing.com

41 MIRAZON Previous Rank: 39 No. of Years Ranked: 8 Industry: Technology Primary Location: Louisville No. of Kentucky Employees: 54 No. of U.S. Employees: 54 Survey Administrator: Leah Weisman, Sales and Marketing Manager Company Executive: Karen Albers, CEO Web Address: www.mirazon.com

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USHJA is made up of knowledgeable, hardworking, passionate people who love the Hunter/Jumper sport. We foster a people-centered environment that commits to honesty, ownership, respect, stewardship and empowerment. We support our staff through our shared values while operating with a service mentality and encouraging a growth mindset. We give our staff members the resources, opportunity, and support that will contribute to their skill set and overall job satisfaction.

43 BUDGET FOR THE PEOPLE Previous Rank: 19 No. of Years Ranked: 7 Industry: Retail Primary Location: Muldraugh No. of Kentucky Employees: 35 No. of U.S. Employees: 35 Survey Administrator: Matt Bratcher, GSM Company Executive: Tony Malito, Owner Web Address: www.tonysaysyes.com

Good Goes Forward: A Commitment of Independence Bank

Most banks today offer comparable products and services for customers.

However, people prefer to do business with people. Customer service remains one of Independence Bank’s most essential pillars, providing its twenty-seven locations with the best financial tools and knowledge.

The success of Independence Bank is built not only on the confidence of its customers but also on its employees.

For the 16th year, Independence Bank has secured a spot on the Best Places to Work in Kentucky list. The team takes pride in privately completing the survey honestly, which Workforce Research Group scores and retains.

“It is an honor to consistently have recognition for having a culture and environment where our employees know they make a difference,” Independence Bank President Phil Riney shared.

Our people will continue to care for our customers and communities with the continued excellence they’ve come to expect.”

Employee feedback is a critical component of the organization and is encour-

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aged through one of the longest-standing Bank traditions – the Five Things survey.

Its annual internal survey is where employees anonymously provide feedback in critical areas: Five things that need to change.

Five things that should never change.

Five future projects to consider.

Senior management reviews the responses and openly communicates an action plan to all employees.

As the second-largest shareholder of the Bank, the ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan) employees invest in the success of the Bank. Always aiming to integrate fun into the workplace, you

will see the locations dressing up for Halloween annually. Across Kentucky, on October 31, some of the most elaborate transformations occurred in their lobbies. This year, on National Have Fun at Work Day, a rock, paper, scissors tournament went from more than two hundred employees down to one grand champion with a large audience cheering them on.

Employee support is seen in more profound ways as well. The Wishing Others Well Fund, also known as W.O.W. Fund, is an employee-funded pool of money for the benefit of coworkers.

In place for more than 15 years, it has helped dozens of employees in unexpected financial distress.

Independence Bank is Here. For Good.

The Bank believes that as it grows, so should the quality of life in the towns it serves. Since its early days, the Bank has connected with the community by volunteering, and its most valuable assets are time and people. Today, its

employees still use their hands for projects throughout Kentucky, paid with considerable financial contributions. In 2023, the financial institution donated 1.4 million dollars to various projects, programs, and non-profits by investing in essential initiatives. Each employee has up to 16 hours of paid volunteer time to lend a helping hand.

A significant part of Independence Bank’s charitable efforts is its scholarship program. Before the death of Bank founding partner Charles A. Reid, he requested the creation of a scholarship program to provide an opportunity for deserving high school students to receive continued education. Each year, Bank employees score more than four hundred applications from students all over the Commonwealth. Since 2001, local high school seniors have received $1.7 million to help make their post-secondary education dreams come true.

Special events such as FUN_draising and Festive on the Fourth shown above, as well as National Have Fun Day at Work and the Wishing Others Well Fund (W.O.W.), illustrate Independence Bank’s commitment to employee and community support.

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MEDIUM COMPANIES BETWEEN 150–499 U.S. EMPLOYEES

NO. 1: Blue & Co., LLC In addition to the scholarship program, Independence Bank has a long-standing tradition of doing what is right and fair for customers, communities, and employees.

Since 1997, the Bank family has expanded from merely twenty-two employees to more than 425, with total assets increasing from $40 million to $3.7 billion.

decade, the extra effort put in by Bank employees has been recognized by the organizations that oversee the survey and program. Each year, it is a central rallying point for employees. In each community where there is a location, the acknowledgment is a point of pride and motivation.

Through its commitment to it customers, employeees, and communities, Independence Bank is driving forward by doing GOOD. “The Bank has seen tremendous growth over the years,” Chairperson Chris Reid reflected. “But, for us, it’s never been about the bottom line. The key factor to our success is our people. We always aim to recruit and hire the best people, motivate them to achieve maximum results, and fairly reward them.

We trust them, learn from them, and help them understand our values as a Bank family.”

The Best Places to Work in Kentucky program is a crucial partnership for Independence Bank. For over a

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Greg Mullican, Independence Bank CEO, said, “I’ve proudly worked alongside our Bank leaders for over two decades.

I continue to see compassion poured into every aspect of who we are. Our core values will guide us into the future as we continue to listen to those who strengthen our communities.”

2 Coastal 3 Community Financial Services Bank 4 Car-Part.com 5 CHI Saint Joseph Health, Saint Joseph Mount Sterling 6 Southcentral Kentucky Community & Technical College 7 UofL Health - Shelbyville Hospital 8 Longship 9 BFW/Marcum Engineering 10 AE Electrical Solutions Frankfort, KY 11 Ryan Fireprotection 12 KECH, Inc. 13 Dentons 14 Louisville Tile Distributors 15 Abound Credit Union

16 East and Westbrook Construction 17 Commonwealth Credit Union 18 Stites & Harbison, PLLC 19 Dean Dorton 20 Kentucky Lottery Corporation 21 STOBER Drives, Inc. 22 UofL Health - Medical Center East 23 L&N Federal Credit Union 24 CHI Saint Joseph Health, Saint Joseph Berea 25 Elizabethtown Community & Technical College 26 Associations International LLC 27 Grace Health 28 CLARK Material Handling Company 29 Independence Bank 30 LockNet 31 Park Community Credit Union

Through its commitment to its customers, employees, and communities, Independence Bank is driving forward by doing GOOD. Equal Housing Lender. Member FDIC

2024 BEST PLACES TO WORK 29

MEDIUM COMPANIES

MEDIUM COMPANIES

1

4 BLUE & CO., LLC

Previous Rank: 6 No. of Years Ranked: 13 Industry: Accounting Primary Location: Louisville No. of Kentucky Employees: 122 No. of U.S. Employees: 476

2

Survey Administrator: Cassie Clark, Total Rewards Specialist Company Executive: Brad Shaw, Managing Director Web Address: www.blueandco.com

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COASTAL Previous Rank: 3 No. of Years Ranked: 2 Industry: Technology Primary Location: Lexington No. of Kentucky Employees: 69 No. of U.S. Employees: 446 Survey Administrator: Sarah Madison, People & Culture Manager Company Executive: Sara Hale, President, Co-Founder Web Address: www.coastalcloud.us

COMMUNITY FINANCIAL SERVICES BANK Previous Rank: 3 No. of Years Ranked: 5 Industry: Banking Primary Location: Benton No. of Kentucky Employees: 258 No. of U.S. Employees: 258 Survey Administrator: Allen Waddell, Chief Human Resources Officer Company Executive: Jason Jones, President Web Address: www.yourlifeyourbank.com

CAR-PART.COM Previous Rank: 1 No. of Years Ranked: 4 Industry: Technology Primary Location: Lexington No. of Kentucky Employees: 172 No. of U.S. Employees: 217 Survey Administrator: Allison Wood, HR Generalist Lead Company Executive: Jeff Schroder, President/CEO Web Address: www.car-part.com

5 CHI SAINT JOSEPH HEALTH, SAINT JOSEPH MOUNT STERLING Previous Rank: Not Previously Ranked No. of Years Ranked: 1 Industry: Healthcare Provider/Social Care Primary Location: Lexington No. of Kentucky Employees: 330 No. of U.S. Employees: 330 Survey Administrator: Sandra Turqueza, HR Director Company Executive: John Yanes, Predsident Web Address: www.chisaintjosephhealth.org

6 SOUTHCENTRAL COMMUNITY & TECHNICAL COLLEGE Previous Rank: 13 No. of Years Ranked: 10 Industry: Education Services Primary Location: Radcliff No. of Kentucky Employees: 240 No. of U.S. Employees: 240 Survey Administrator: Sherri Forester, Vice President of Administrative Service Company Executive: Dr. Phil Neal, President & CEO Web Address: www.southcentral.kctcs.edu

Spotlight Profile SKYCTC’s mission is to improve South Central Kentucky’s economic prosperity through higher education focused on career development, community partnerships, and economic growth. SKYCTC embraces a culture of inclusiveness. Around that culture of inclusiveness exists intentional plans for celebrating and recognizing the successes of our students and our employees. The faculty and staff continue to build a framework that guides institutional efforts to increase levels of engagement and success for our students, employees, and community members. The foundation for our efforts has been described as our culture of caring. SKYCTC’s culture of caring shines through our faculty, staff, and students, and has been described as our ‘special sauce.’ Ultimately, our culture of caring provides a nurturing environment for faculty and staff to do their best work, and for students to thrive and succeed. This is what makes SKYCTC special and why employees stay.

Spotlight Profile

Celebrating

2 0 YE AR S O F THE BE ST PL ACES TO WO RK I N KENT UCK Y

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We believe we are called to serve, not only our communities, but also all of our employees, who we refer to as “caregivers”. We consider all of our employees, clinical and non-clinical, as caregivers who help to solidify our culture with their individual skills and talent while caring for our patients, and for each other. We strive to recognize the importance of every person to our organization in pursuit of our mission in tangible ways, such as a culture that promotes support of individuals by the organization, their leaders and their colleagues. We have robust communications that aim to engage, inform and educate caregivers so they have all the information they need to perform, and feel supported in, their work.

Various programs allow us to continue to recognize the important roles our caregivers play in the success of our service to patients and communities.

7 UOFL HEALTH - SHELBYVILLE HOSPITAL Previous Rank: 22 No. of Years Ranked: 2 Industry: Healthcare Provider/Social Care Primary Location: Shelbyville No. of Kentucky Employees: 193 No. of U.S. Employees: 193 Survey Administrator: Lorie Kleier, Executive Assistant II Company Executive: Tom Miller, CEO, UofL Health Web Address: www.uoflhealth.org

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MEDIUM COMPANIES

8 LONGSHIP Previous Rank: 22 No. of Years Ranked: 2 Industry: Transportation/Logistics Primary Location: Lexington No. of Kentucky Employees: 135 No. of U.S. Employees: 162 Survey Administrator: Courtney Parker, Chief of Staff Company Executive: Kenneth R Schomp, President Web Address: www.longship.us

9 BFW/MARCUM ENGINEERING Previous Rank: 24 No. of Years Ranked: 2 Industry: Engineering Primary Location: Paducah No. of Kentucky Employees: 101 No. of U.S. Employees: 163 Survey Administrator: Melissa Yates, General Counsel, HR Manager Company Executive: Mark Workman, Executive Vice President, Principal Web Address: www.bfwengineers.com

10 AE ELECTRICAL SOLUTIONS Previous Rank: 15 No. of Years Ranked: 4 Industry: Construction Primary Location: Frankfort No. of Kentucky Employees: 171 No. of U.S. Employees: 171 Survey Administrator: Tina Jasper, Asst. HR Director Company Executive: John Phillips, CEO/President Web Address: www.aees.com

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RYAN FIREPROTECTION Previous Rank: Not Previously Ranked No. of Years Ranked: 1 Industry: Construction Primary Location: Louisville No. of Kentucky Employees: 42 No. of U.S. Employees: 445 Survey Administrator: Kerry Hamlin, Talent Acquisition Director Company Executive: Dan Ryan, CEO Web Address: www.ryanfp.com

DENTONS Previous Rank: 17 No. of Years Ranked: 2 Industry: Legal Primary Location: Louisville No. of Kentucky Employees: 136 No. of U.S. Employees: 310 Survey Administrator: Kulwant Singh, Business Services Talent Manager Company Executive: Keith Bice, Managing Partner Web Address: www.dentons.com

12 KECH, INC. Previous Rank: Last ranked in 2022 No. of Years Ranked: 5 Industry: Services Primary Location: Williamsburg No. of Kentucky Employees: 161 No. of U.S. Employees: 498 Survey Administrator: Rodney Ramsey, HR Manager Company Executive: Chris Carpenter, CEO Web Address: www.kechco.com

Spotlight Profile Engaged employee-owners at AE Electrical Solutions contribute to the company’s success by dedicating themselves to strengthening and sustaining the organization.

AE’s workforce values align with their personal beliefs, creating a workplace where they feel a strong sense of belonging. This positive culture allows them to influence and shape the company as they progress in their careers.

AE empowers its employee-owners to share feedback and ideas, actively guiding the company towards greater strength and appeal to future team members. AE provides ample opportunities for career advancement, comprehensive technical and leadership training, and the satisfaction of directly impacting the company’s value. This influence is exercised through safe and efficient work practices, maintaining high quality, delivering exceptional customer service, and responsibly managing company assets.

Spotlight Profile Dentons is the world’s largest global law firm, with more than 12,500 professionals and offices in more than 160 locations, including Kentucky. Across more than 80 countries, Dentons helps clients grow, protect, operate, and finance their organizations by providing uniquely global and deeply local legal solutions. Learn more at Dentons.com.

14 LOUISVILLE TILE DISTRIBUTORS Previous Rank: 11 No. of Years Ranked: 9 Industry: Distribution Primary Location: Louisville No. of Kentucky Employees: 121 No. of U.S. Employees: 277 Survey Administrator: Crosby Hall, Chief Administrative Officer Company Executive: Dub Newell, CEO Web Address: www.louisville-tile.com

MEDIUM COMPANIES

MEDIUM COMPANIES

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ABOUND CREDIT UNION Previous Rank: 15 No. of Years Ranked: 4 Industry: Banking Primary Location: Louisville No. of Kentucky Employees: 354 No. of U.S. Employees: 354 Survey Administrator: Jill Krimm, Chief People Officer Company Executive: Ray Springsteen, President/CEO Web Address: www.aboundcu.com

COMMONWEALTH CREDIT UNION Previous Rank: 10 No. of Years Ranked: 6 Industry: Banking Primary Location: Frankfort We’re No. of Kentucky employees: 361 hiring!

No. of U.S. employees: 361 Survey Administrator: Travis Flora, Director of Culture and DEI Company Executive: Karen Harbin, President/CEO Web Address: www.ccuky.org

Spotlight Profile Abound Credit Union is the largest state-based credit union in Kentucky and a proud supporter of advancing community and school-aged financial awareness. Our dedicated team of 350-plus employees stay connected to our community and the mission we enthusiastically embrace to improve the lives of our member owners in all that we do. It is through the efforts of our team members that we deliver next-level experiences, products, and services to our members. We proudly and passionately serve our communities and members and strive to uphold the ideals of the credit union movement and mission.

16 EAST AND WESTBROOK CONSTRUCTION Fair Chance Previous Rank: 25 Employer No. of Years Ranked: 2 Industry: Construction Primary Location: Buckner No. of Kentucky Employees: 227 No. of U.S. Employees: 300 Survey Administrator: Timothy Ernst, HR Director Company Executive: Jonathan Westbrook, President Web Address: www.eastandwestbrook.com

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Spotlight Profile Commonwealth Credit Union’s Team 1 Culture sets us apart and is the key to being named a Best Place to Work in Kentucky. At Commonwealth CU, our team members come first. We believe that an engaged and empowered team will provide extraordinary experiences to each other, which will then ripple out to the members and communities we serve. Our culture is led by our Director of Culture and DEI, who is supported by Culture Champions in every branch and department. Leader development is a centerpiece of our culture. When leaders get better, everybody wins! Our Leadership Institute oversees 4 leader development programs that includes everyone from our Aspiring Leaders to Existing Leaders. Finally, there’s our benefits. Our benefits package is among the best around.

It includes the basics like health, dental, & vision insurance, & expands to extras like 401k, birthday and work anniversary holidays, a walking track and gym, paid parental leave, tuition reimbursement & more. Come grow with us!

Spotlight Profile At East & Westbrook, our mission is to professionally build complex structures and lasting relationships. Since 1977, we have believed that it’s not enough to get the project done on time and on budget because true success is also measured by how you get there. That’s why our entire team relentlessly lives our company values, passionately honors our award-winning history, professionally executes our client’s project goals, and innovatively strives to improve the future of our industry one project at a time.

For us, it’s all about our Culture.

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STITES & HARBISON, PLLC Previous Rank: 7 No. of Years Ranked: 18 Industry: Legal Primary Location: Multiple Cities No. of Kentucky Employees: 214 No. of U.S. Employees: 340 Survey Administrator: Pam Keeney, Business Development Coordinator Company Executive: Marjorie A. Farris, Chair Web Address: www.stites.com

DEAN DORTON Previous Rank: 4 No. of Years Ranked: 20 Industry: Accounting Primary Location: Lexington No. of Kentucky Employees: 371 No. of U.S. Employees: 371 Survey Administrator: Katie Burks, Senior HR Generalist Company Executive: David Bundy, President/CEO Web Address: www.deandorton.com

MEDIUM COMPANIES

MEDIUM COMPANIES

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KENTUCKY LOTTERY CORPORATION Previous Rank: 19 No. of Years Ranked: 5 We’re hiring!

Industry: Gaming-Lottery Primary Location: Louisville No. of Kentucky Employees: 165 No. of U.S. Employees: 165 Survey Administrator: Michele Sullivan, VP, Human Resources Company Executive: Mary Harville, President & CEO Web Address: www.kylottery.com

UOFL HEALTH - MEDICAL CENTER EAST Previous Rank: 20 No. of Years Ranked: 2 Industry: Healthcare Provider/Social Care Primary Location: Louisville No. of Kentucky Employees: 227 No. of U.S. Employees: 227 Survey Administrator: Frank Reeb, Senior HR Manager Company Executive: Tom Miller, CEO, UofL Health Web Address: www.uoflhealthnow.org

Spotlight Profile

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Winning at the Kentucky Lottery goes beyond its entertaining games and the millions of dollars in scholarships and grants it funds annually. Winning first starts with its employees. The Lottery offers a nurturing work environment where employees not only succeed in their daily roles but also have growth and advancement opportunities at every level. The company provides an engaging workplace for employees to coalesce through ongoing education, topnotch wellness and benefits programs, robust retirement plans, and platforms to share their ideas and use their voices. Employees consistently say that they value the family-like atmosphere of genuine caring for one another, and you will often hear references to “my KLC family.” This caring is what really makes the difference at the Lottery and in its giving when Kentuckians are in need.

Lottery employees take to heart the company’s mission in funding college scholarships and grants – making a difference in the lives of young Kentuckians.

21 STOBER DRIVES, INC. Previous Rank: 8 No. of Years Ranked: 7 Industry: Manufacturing Primary Location: Maysville No. of Kentucky Employees: 168 No. of U.S. Employees: 168 Survey Administrator: Amy McCord, Marketing Manager Company Executive: Peter Feil, General Manager Web Address: www.stober.com

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L&N FEDERAL CREDIT UNION Previous Rank: 16 No. of Years Ranked: 9 Industry: Finance Primary Location: Louisville No. of Kentucky Employees: 280 No. of U.S. Employees: 305 Survey Administrator: Peggy O’Bryan, Chief People Officer Company Executive: Chris Brown, President / CEO Web Address: www.lnfcu.com

Spotlight Profile For more than 65 years, L&N Federal Credit Union has been known for providing exceptional products and services for our members. Our founding members started with a vision and mission and those guiding principles are still in place today. With assets over $2 billion and an array of products and services, L&N can offer everything necessary for someone’s personal or business financial needs. Our L&N family is dedicated to serving over 112,000 members across the Commonwealth. L&N has 23 branches located in Louisville, Southeast and Northern Kentucky and Southern Indiana.

Our projected growth for the future is bright and we continue to expand our branch network to serve our members. We are proud to be recognized as a consecutive Best Place to Work in the state of Kentucky!

We are proud of our commitment to our Mission to bring people together, to enrich their quality of life and build permanent relationships with our members.

24 CHI SAINT JOSEPH HEALTH, SAINT JOSEPH BEREA Previous Rank: 26 No. of Years Ranked: 2 Industry: Healthcare Provider/Social Care Primary Location: Lexington No. of Kentucky Employees: 199 No. of U.S. Employees: 199 Survey Administrator: Sandra Turqueza, HR Director Company Executive: John Yanes, President Web Address: www.chisaintjosephhealth.org

Spotlight Profile

We’re hiring!

We believe we are called to serve, not only our communities, but also all of our employees, who we refer to as “caregivers”. We consider all of our employees, clinical and non-clinical, as caregivers who help to solidify our culture with their individual skills and talent while caring for our patients, and for each other. We strive to recognize the importance of every person to our organization in pursuit of our mission in tangible ways, such as a culture that promotes support of individuals by the organization, their leaders and their colleagues. We have robust communications that aim to engage, inform and educate caregivers so they have all the information they need to perform, and feel supported in, their work. Various programs allow us to continue to recognize the important roles our caregivers play in the success of our service to patients and communities.

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ELIZABETHTOWN COMMUNITY & TECHNICAL COLLEGE Previous Rank: Last ranked in 2022 No. of Years Ranked: 3 Industry: Education Services Primary Location: Elizabethtown We’re No. of Kentucky Employees: 250 hiring!

No. of U.S. Employees: 250 Survey Administrator: Whitney Taylor, Chief Human Resources Officer Company Executive: Dr. Juston C. Pate, CEO Web Address: www.elizabethtown.kctcs.edu

ASSOCIATIONS INTERNATIONAL LLC Previous Rank: 14 No. of Years Ranked: 12 Industry: Association Management Primary Location: Lexington No. of Kentucky Employees: 180 No. of U.S. Employees: 180 Survey Administrator: Alex Collins, Head of Human Resources Company Executive: Mark Meikle, CEO, Chairman of the Board Web Address: www.associationsinternational.com

Spotlight Profile ECTC has served north central Kentucky for 60 years and it’s our mission that makes us a Best Place to Work. We strive every day to add value to the lives of our students and return that value to our community. Partnering with the community and regional employers, we educate, empower, and equip the diverse members of our region to compete in a complex workforce and live better lives. Our faculty, staff, and leadership share a commitment to inclusiveness, integrity, and collegiality, fostering a positive, caring culture not only for ECTC teammates, but also the students and partners we serve. Our teammates are dedicated to our students and excited to see their contributions have a positive impact in our communities and our commonwealth.

27 GRACE HEALTH Previous Rank: 24 No. of Years Ranked: 2 Industry: Healthcare - Provider Primary Location: Corbin No. of Kentucky Employees: 467 No. of U.S. Employees: 467 Survey Administrator: Patty Miller, HR Generalist Company Executive: Michael Stanley, CEO Web Address: www.gracehealthky.org

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MEDIUM COMPANIES

28 CLARK MATERIAL HANDLING COMPANY Previous Rank: 9 No. of Years Ranked: 6 Industry: Manufacturing Primary Location: Lexington No. of Kentucky Employees: 235 No. of U.S. Employees: 252 Survey Administrator: Sherry Myers, HR Manager Company Executive: Dennis Lawrence, President & CEO Web Address: www.clarkmhc.com

29 INDEPENDENCE BANK Previous Rank: 2 No. of Years Ranked: 16 Industry: Banking Primary Location: Owensboro No. of Kentucky Employees: 419 No. of U.S. Employees: 419 Survey Administrator: Dana Kabalen, Human Resources Manager Company Executive: Greg Mullican, CEO Web Address: www.1776bank.com

30 LOCKNET Fair Chance Previous Rank: 30 Employer No. of Years Ranked: 4 Industry: Services Primary Location: Nicholasville No. of Kentucky Employees: 211 No. of U.S. Employees: 211 Survey Administrator: Katie Willie, Strategic HR Company Executive: Chad Miller, CEO Web Address: www.locknet.com

31 PARK COMMUNITY CREDIT UNION Previous Rank: 12 No. of Years Ranked: 12 Industry: Banking Primary Location: Louisville No. of Kentucky Employees: 284 No. of U.S. Employees: 294 Survey Administrator: Lisa Brangers, VP of Human Resources Company Executive: Jana Erny, President/CEO Web Address: www.parkcommunity.com

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THE MOST SURPRISING WAY TO REDUCE STRESS AND BE MORE PRODUCTIVE

PRODUCTIVITY EXPERTISE

A

s a fellow participant in our culture, I continue to experience how I get worked up about the ideals of productivity and expertise. These may be separate subjects, but for me, they’re entwined. When I tap into the mood of ambition, automate my life, and ask myself, “How much can I accomplish today?” I can also lose touch with my learner’s mindset.

This sends me spinning, and I need affirmation of my accomplishments: “See how hard I work. See how focused and effective I am!” This is all about a lower-level, task-centered identity that blurs life’s meaning and purpose with our cultural values.

All along, another reality has been ever-present. I look out the window and see the trees waving in the spring breeze, and they seem indifferent to whether I accomplish my goals. I find this strangely calming.

AMBITION 2024 BEST PLACES TO WORK 39

WHEN WE ASK, “WHAT CAN I LEARN FROM THIS?” EVERYTHING SHIFTS.

LEARNER’S MIND PERSPECTIVE

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Even as I sit here and write this article, I’m aware it is another item on my To-do list, another task with a deadline. Also, as a coach and author, I am “an authority.” A tension emerges between needing to have answers and being open to the constant flow of questions and curiosities all around. In telling the world all I know; I lose touch with the listening mind.

No one wants to fail, but we tend to learn from failure because it’s often a reality check. If we are to move forward, we are usually forced to consider how to approach failure from a different perspective that begins with the self.

Beyond taking care of the self, the second part is ensuring that the self is cared for by being in community with others.

We live in a merit-based society. Our unique knowledge and authority reward us. The struggle is real. We are supposed to be able to figure out whatever’s ailing us, to be tough and on guard. If we’re stressed, we’re supposed to try yoga or meditation, not because we should grow as spiritual beings but because it will help us continue to survive and deal with chronic stress.

When we constantly (and sincerely) ask, “What can I learn from this?” everything shifts. We don’t feel the need to defend our actions. We keep ourselves in the more childlike stance of awe and wonder.

Yet, a learner’s mindset goes against the idea that one needs to have all the answers. It serves many purposes. It keeps us humble and helps us be less defensive when someone gives us instructions.

You might notice that you hear a lot of language, such as “learner’s mindset,” in coaching contexts. We use it in our vocabulary when working in organizations big and small. What does it mean when a leader functions in openness and learning instead of defensiveness and a commitment to “being right”? It’s easy to believe we’re all open to new learning. But think about when you’re under pressure. How do you behave under stress when things haven’t been going right?

What’s “easy” is to blame. It’s at least our habitual default. When things aren’t going the way we want them to, it’s easy to trust our assessments that the world and others aren’t living up to our standards and expectations.

Think about the last time you failed at something. What was your first response?

But isn’t there enormous literature on how much we learn through failure? Why is that?

A learner’s mindset helps us stave off the effects of stress because it assumes we aren’t supposed to know everything. But even that is not the main point.

A learner’s mindset helps us engage with others because it assumes that in not knowing all the answers, we must get the answers, assurances, or experiences through others. This mindset appears in the latest and most recent research, which has been taking place for about a century. Social engagement–being in community with others–is better for our health than just any other activity you can name.

With intention, though, you will experience different results. You’ll be more productive because you’ll be more engaged when you work, more sustainably in your practices, and healthier in mind, body, and soul.

Finding even little spots here and there to engage with others will reduce your stress and increase your wellbeing.

In each challenging moment, practice reframing what you might initially see as stress into an opportunity for learning.

I don’t say this lightly. I know it’s easier said than done. It is hard. It takes practice.

Dr. Chad Prevost serves Big Self School as a leadership and wellbeing coach.

A certified Enneagram and LCP 360 practitioner, he leads transformative workshops and retreats to improve trust, performance, and communication.

Find out more at bigselfschool.com.

Yours in the work, Dr. Chad Prevost

LARGE COMPANIES OVER 500 U.S. EMPLOYEES

NO. 1: Amgen 2 Deloitte 3 Vaco 4 Farm Credit Mid-America 5 Boardwalk Pipelines 6 Steptoe & Johnson PLLC 7 Central Bank & Trust Co. 8 Wieland 9 CHI Saint Joseph Health, Saint Joseph London 10 Marquette Transportation Company, LLC 11 Jack Henry 12 Pathways, Inc. 13 ISCO Industries

14 Republic Bank 15 AssuredPartners 16 Total Quality Logistics 17 Commonwealth Hotels, LLC 18 LBMC 19 CHI Saint Joseph Health, Saint Joseph Hospital 20 T.J. Regional Health 21 New Vista 22 Bastian Solutions 23 Galen College of Nursing 24 Addiction Recovery Care, LLC 25 UK King’s Daughters 26 Consumer Cellular

2024 BEST PLACES TO WORK 43

LARGE COMPANIES

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5 AMGEN

Previous Rank: 1 No. of Years Ranked: 4 Industry: Life Science/Biotechnology Primary Location: Louisville No. of Kentucky Employees: 33 No. of U.S. Employees: 15,160

2 DELOITTE Previous Rank: Not Previously Ranked No. of Years Ranked: 1 Industry: Consulting Primary Location: Frankfort No. of Kentucky Employees: 634 No. of U.S. Employees: 171,000 Survey Administrator: Mohan Kumar, Managing Director Company Executive: Daniel Helfrich, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Deloitte Consulting Web Address: www.deloitte.com

Survey Administrator: Latisha Woods, Senior Manager, Corporate Affairs Company Executive: Adam Bibelhauser, Senior Director and Site Lead Web Address: www.amgen.com

4 FARM CREDIT MID-AMERICA Previous Rank: 5 No. of Years Ranked: 12 Industry: Finance Primary Location: Louisville No. of Kentucky Employees: 965 No. of U.S. Employees: 1,665 Survey Administrator: Kim Abbott, HR Generalist Company Executive: Dan Wagner, President and Chief Executive Officer Web Address: www.fcma.com

Spotlight Profile

3 VACO Previous Rank: Last ranked in 2020 No. of Years Ranked: 2 Industry: Staffing Primary Location: Louisville, Lexington No. of Kentucky Employees: 15 No. of U.S. Employees: 5,930 Survey Administrator: Sarah Grunkemeyer, Regional Marketing Director Company Executive: Clif Freeman, Anchor Partner Web Address: www.vaco.com

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Farm Credit Mid-America is a financial services cooperative working to secure the future of rural communities and agriculture by providing reliable credit and financial services. As a proud member of the Farm Credit System, Farm Credit Mid-America provides services to farmers, producers, agribusinesses and rural residents throughout our territory in Arkansas, Indiana, Kentucky, Missouri, Ohio and Tennessee. Services include loans for real estate, operating, equipment, rural living and other related services. In addition to loans, Farm Credit Mid-America also provides crop insurance and vehicle, equipment and building leases. We achieve our shared purpose by embracing common values and a culture that keeps customers at the heart of all that we do. We believe that our success is rooted in family and relationships. Because of this, we value the importance of family and encourage a work-life balance that allows our team members to invest in these vital relationships.

BOARDWALK PIPELINES Previous Rank: 10 No. of Years Ranked: 2 Industry: Midstream/Refiners & Pipelines Primary Location: Owensboro No. of Kentucky Employees: 315 No. of U.S. Employees: 1,268 Survey Administrator: Jillian Kirkconnell, Director, Public Relations, Communications & Sustainability Company Executive: Stan Horton, CEO Web Address: www.bwpipelines.com

Spotlight Profile Our success is deeply rooted in our people and culture.

We are dedicated to creating work environments across all locations and operations that not only allow our people to flourish but also feel valued and supported.

We are committed to providing a positive, productive, and encouraging work atmosphere. Our competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits programs are tailored to attract and retain top talent, demonstrating our recognition of their invaluable contributions.

Additionally, we recognize the importance of work-life balance and offer flexible working arrangements to accommodate our employees’ varied lifestyles. We offer robust training and development programs designed to expand our employees’ skill sets and guide them in their professional development. We encourage our employees to support their local communities by volunteering, and we have established two paid days off specifically for them to participate in company-sponsored volunteer events.

LARGE COMPANIES

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WIELAND Previous Rank: 2 No. of Years Ranked: 3 Industry: Manufacturing Primary Location: Louisville No. of Kentucky Employees: 119 No. of U.S. Employees: 3,024 Survey Administrator: Kendall Arnett, Manager, Employee Communications and Engagement Company Executive: Dr. Erwin Mayr, CEO Web Address: www.wieland.com

STEPTOE & JOHNSON PLLC Previous Rank: 9 No. of Years Ranked: 7 Industry: Legal We’re Primary Location: Louisville hiring!

No. of Kentucky Employees: 46 No. of U.S. Employees: 722 Survey Administrator: Jared Bedekovich, Marketing & Communications Specialist Company Executive: Christopher L. Slaughter, CEO Web Address: www.steptoe-johnson.com

We’re hiring!

Spotlight Profile Spotlight Profile

Copper connects the world. It is indispensable - and used in practically everything! For over 200 years, Wieland has been shaping the future of copper and copper alloys.

Today we have nearly 9,000 colleagues across 80 locations.

We play a leading role in the industry in quality, service and sustainability. We are pioneers committed to creative sustainable value throughout the generations - in economic, ecological and social terms. At Wieland, employees have a wide range of opportunities to unleash their potential.

Every employee is part of the company’s success. We are encouraged to decide and act with efficiency and transparency to help shape the future.

Steptoe & Johnson PLLC is a U.S. law firm recognized for its strengths in business, energy, labor and employment, and litigation. Steptoe & Johnson has over 400 lawyers and other professionals practicing in 18 offices in Colorado, Kentucky, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Texas, and West Virginia.

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CHI SAINT JOSEPH HEALTH, SAINT JOSEPH LONDON Previous Rank: 13 No. of Years Ranked: 5 Industry: Healthcare Provider/Social Care Primary Location: Lexington No. of Kentucky Employees: 799 No. of U.S. Employees: 799 Survey Administrator: Sandra Turqueza, HR Director Company Executive: John Yanes, President Web Address: www.chisaintjosephhealth.org

Spotlight Profile We are called to serve, not only our communities, but also all of our employees, who we refer to as “caregivers”. Our employees, clinical and non-clinical, as caregivers who help to solidify our culture with their individual skills and talent while caring for our patients, and each other. In fulfilling our mission, we recognize the importance of each person in tangible ways, such as promoting a culture of safety that supports our caregivers by the organization, their leaders and their colleagues. Having received an A grade by LeapFrog (a national nonprofit watchdog that sets standards for excellence in patient care) highlights our goal of creating a safe environment. We have robust communications that aim to engage, inform and educate caregivers so they have all the information they need to perform, and feel supported in, their work. Various programs allow us to continue to recognize our caregivers’ vital roles in serving our patients and communities.

Spotlight Profile CENTRAL BANK Previous Rank: 4 No. of Years Ranked: 17 Industry: Financial Services Primary Location: Lexington No. of Kentucky Employees: 505 No. of U.S. Employees: 505 Survey Administrator: Andrea Creech, Benefits Manager Company Executive: Luther Deaton, Jr., Chairman, President & CEO Web Address: www.centralbank.com

46 2024 BEST PLACES TO WORK­­

We’re hiring!

Central Bank puts its employees first. Every Board decision is made by considering the impact to our employees.

For example, the 2024 insurance renewal reflected a 12% increase that would typically be proportionally shared between the Bank’s expenses and employees’ premiums.

However, the Bank footed the entire increase and employee premiums remained the same. The Bank had subsidized downtown parking for many years, however in 2023 the Bank decided to fully cover this expense for employees. We regularly and consistently meet with employees to foster relationships, gather feedback and ask for suggestions for improvement. Putting employees first isn’t just what we say, it’s the basis of how we operate.

10 MARQUETTE TRANSPORTATION COMPANY, LLC Previous Rank: 12 No. of Years Ranked: 2 Fair Chance Industry: Transportation Employer Primary Location: Paducah No. of Kentucky Employees: 164 No. of U.S. Employees: 1,912 Survey Administrator: J Frances Hagen, HR Specialist, Talent Development Company Executive: Damon Judd, CEO Web Address: www.marquettetrans.com

LARGE COMPANIES

11 JACK HENRY Previous Rank: 16 No. of Years Ranked: 12 Industry: Finance Primary Location: Elizabethtown No. of Kentucky Employees: 289 We’re hiring!

No. of U.S. Employees: 7,004 Survey Administrator: Kate Gravitt, Corporate Communications Specialist Company Executive: David Foss, Board Chair & CEO Web Address: www.jackhenry.com

LARGE COMPANIES

Spotlight Profile Ask our associates “why Jack Henry?” and they’ll tell you our culture is extraordinary. Our co-founders, Jack Henry and Jerry Hall, believed that business is about people and relationships keep us together. We still stand by that philosophy today and aim to put people first in all decisions we make. We have an inclusive community of talented individuals who rise together to meet challenges, improve, grow, and innovate.

Associates are part of a team from day one - fully immersed in building innovative fintech and surrounded by our unique culture. We believe that the rewards of a job well done should be very rewarding. That’s why we offer a whole range of benefits and programs covering physical, mental, and financial health - everything from flexible work arrangements to a generous 401(k) match and employee stock purchase plan. We have an inclusive community of talented individuals who rise together to meet challenges, improve, grow, and innovate.

13 ISCO INDUSTRIES Previous Rank: 7 No. of Years Ranked: 13 Industry: Manufacturing Primary Location: Louisville No. of Kentucky Employees: 254 No. of U.S. Employees: 763 Survey Administrator: Lilly Ledford, Recruiter Company Executive: James Kirchdorfer Jr., Chairman & CEO Web Address: www.isco-pipe.com

16 TOTAL QUALITY LOGISTICS Previous Rank: 21 No. of Years Ranked: 12 Industry: Transportation/Distribution Primary Location: Louisville No. of Kentucky Employees: 750 No. of U.S. Employees: 9,008 Survey Administrator: Angela Haulk, Executive Assistant Company Executive: Ken Oaks, CEO Web Address: www.tql.com

14 12 PATHWAYS, INC. Previous Rank: 18 No. of Years Ranked: 2 Industry: Healthcare Provider/Social Care Primary Location: Ashland No. of Kentucky Employees: 619 No. of U.S. Employees: 619 Survey Administrator: Veronica Nunley, Chief Business Development Officer Company Executive: Jennifer Willis, Chief Executive Officer Web Address: www.pathways-ky.org

Spotlight Profile

REPUBLIC BANK Previous Rank: 11 No. of Years Ranked: 9 Industry: Banking Primary Location: Louisville No. of Kentucky Employees: 878 No. of U.S. Employees: 1,012 Survey Administrator: Robin White, VP / Director of Employee Relations Company Executive: Logan Pichel, President & CEO Web Address: www.republicbank.com Fair Chance Employer

Pathways, Inc. is a Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic serving ten counties in northeast Kentucky including Bath, Boyd, Carter, Elliott, Greenup, Lawrence, Menifee, Montgomery, Morgan, and Rowan. Pathways employs over 600 staff who work diligently every day to fulfill its mission of strengthening individuals, supporting families, and serving communities. Employees love working at Pathways “because it is one of the few jobs where you can come to work every day and help improve the quality of someone’s life.” Pathways offers a family work atmosphere where coworkers and management strive to create an environment of open communication, share decision making, and staff feel their contributions are acknowledged and valued.

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15 ASSUREDPARTNERS Previous Rank: 19 No. of Years Ranked: 15 Industry: Insurance (non-healthcare) Primary Location: Louisville No. of Kentucky Employees: 247 No. of U.S. Employees: 713 Survey Administrator: Emily Hammer, Senior HR Generalist Company Executive: Cassondra Hustrulid, Rgional President Web Address: www.assuredpartners.com

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LARGE COMPANIES

17 COMMONWEALTH HOTELS, LLC Fair Chance Previous Rank: 6 Employer No. of Years Ranked: 6 Industry: Hospitality/Restaurants Primary Location: Covington No. of Kentucky Employees: 365 No. of U.S. Employees: 1,558 Survey Administrator: Nicole Wilson, Director of Human Resources Company Executive: Jennifer Porter, President Web Address: www.commonwealthhotels.com

18 LBMC Previous Rank: 5 (Previously Known as Strothman and Company) No. of Years Ranked: 1 Industry: Accounting and Business Consulting Primary Location: Multiple Cities No. of Kentucky Employees: 74 No. of U.S. Employees: 935 Survey Administrator: Michelle Endres, Chief People Officer Company Executive: Jim Meade, CEO and Bill Meyer, Shareholder, Kentucky Market Leader Web Address: www.lbmc.com

Spotlight Profile As we get ready to celebrate our 40th anniversary, LBMC is proud to be named a 2024 Best Place to Work in Kentucky.

This award follows the exciting news of LBMC’s expansion into the KY market when Strothman and Co. joined the firm in November. LBMC was also recently named a Fortune Best Workplace in Consulting and Professional Services and a four-time National Certified Great Place to Work. Among the many factors that make LBMC a great place to work is our strong, people-first culture focused on attracting and retaining top talent through a collaborative environment committed to growth, learning, and innovation, while delivering excellence to our clients. Our award-winning Talent Development Program supports the development of team members at every level of the organization, and our compensation program allows all to participate in the firm’s growth and success. Our flexible, hybrid and remote work options support a healthy work life balance while serving clients at the highest level.

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LARGE COMPANIES

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CHI SAINT JOSEPH HEALTH, SAINT JOSEPH HOSPITAL Previous Rank: Not Previously Ranked No. of Years Ranked: 1 Industry: Healthcare Provider/Social Care Primary Location: Lexington We’re No. of Kentucky employees: 1298 hiring!

No. of U.S. employees: 1,298 Survey Administrator: Drew Lane, Sr HR Business Partner Company Executive: Dr. Anthony Houston, CEO Web Address: www.chisaintjosephhealth.org

NEW VISTA Previous Rank: 14 No. of Years Ranked: 3 Industry: Nonprofit – Health & Human Services Primary Location: Lexington No. of Kentucky Employees: 705 No. of U.S. Employees: 705 Survey Administrator: Mickey Sexton, Chief Operating Officer Company Executive: Dee Werline, President and Chief Executive Officer Web Address: www.newvista.org

GALEN COLLEGE OF NURSING Previous Rank: 23 No. of Years Ranked: 7 Industry: Education Services Primary Location: Louisville No. of Kentucky Employees: 476 No. of U.S. Employees: 2,128 Survey Administrator: Shannon Mingus, Director of Human Resources Company Executive: Mark Vogt, CEO Web Address: www.galencollege.edu

Spotlight Profile Saint Joseph Hospital is Lexington’s first hospital, and has grown to serve residents of central and eastern Kentucky.

Established in 1877 by the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth, we continue the important work our foundresses began. We are more than a hospital we are a ministry. Our mission is to make the healing presence of God known in our world by improving the health of the people we serve, especially those who are vulnerable, while we advance social justice for all. Our vision is a healthier future for all, inspired by faith, driven by innovation, and powered by humanity. We believe we are called to serve our communities and are guided by our mission and vision in that work.

Our brand promise is Hello humankindness and we are inspired to give back by the simple acts of kindness by our employees and by our community.

20 T.J. REGIONAL HEALTH Previous Rank: Not Previously Ranked No. of Years Ranked: 1 Industry: Healthcare Provider/Social Care Primary Location: Glasgow No. of Kentucky Employees: 1,225 No. of U.S. Employees: 1,225 Survey Administrator: Stacey Biggs, EVP, Marketing, Planning & Development Company Executive: Neil Thornbury, CEO Web Address: www.tjregionalhealth.org

Spotlight Profile New Vista is a non-profit community mental health center with over 2,000 employees working at 74 program locations in 30 Kentucky counties. We serve the community by providing mental health, substance use, developmental and primary care services. We are a community of individuals dedicated to providing services to children, adults, and families regardless of their ability to pay since 1965.

New Vista is an equal opportunity employer committed to providing professional development, top-tier company culture and career advancement. At New Vista, we see the good ahead!

22 BASTIAN SOLUTIONS Previous Rank: Last ranked in 2022 No. of Years Ranked: 9 Industry: Engineering Primary Location: Louisville No. of Kentucky Employees: 271 No. of U.S. Employees: 1210 Survey Administrator: Emily Keenan, HR Business Partner Company Executive: Aaron Jones, President & CEO Web Address: www.bastiansolutions.com

24 ADDICTION RECOVERY CARE, LLC Previous Rank: Not Previously Ranked No. of Years Ranked: 1 Industry: Healthcare Provider/Social Care Primary Location: Louisa No. of Kentucky Employees: 1,239 No. of U.S. Employees:1,239 Survey Administrator: Arron Rhodes, Vice President, Human Resources Company Executive: Tim Robinson, Chief Executive Officer and Founder Web Address: www.arccenters.com Fair Chance Employer

Spotlight Profile At Addiction Recovery Care our mission is to create opportunities for people to discover hope and live their God-given destiny with values such as compassion, accountability, respect for the dignity of life, entrepreneurial innovation and stewardship. This mission extends not only to our patients, but our employees as well. Our goal is for each of our employees to find their God-given destiny while working together to assist some of the most vulnerable population of Kentucky and beyond in finding a new path within their life.

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LARGE COMPANIES

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UK KING’S DAUGHTERS Previous Rank: Not Previously Ranked No. of Years Ranked: 1 Industry: Healthcare Provider/Social Care Primary Location: Ashland No. of Kentucky Employees: 4,574 No. of U.S. Employees: 4,926 Survey Administrator: James Parsons, CHRO/Vice President Company Executive: Sara Marks, President/CEO Web Address: www.kingsdaughtershealth.com

CONSUMER CELLULAR Previous Rank: Not Previously Ranked No. of Years Ranked: 1 Fair Chance Industry: Telecommunications Primary Location: Louisville Employer No. of Kentucky Employees: 321 No. of U.S. Employees: 3,239 Survey Administrator: Sadia Maqsood, Employee Experience Manager Company Executive: Ed Evans, Chief Executive Officer Web Address: www.consumercellular.com

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In today’s dynamic workplace, integrating Generation Z (Gen Z) employees is not just an option; it’s necessary for companies striving to stay relevant and competitive...

Navigating Gen Z in the Modern Workplace: Strategies for Recruitment and Retention

It’s time to embrace the reality that Gen Z is here to stay, and they’re shaping the future of the workplace. Based on data from a recent Glassdoor report, the number of Gen Z members in the workplace will overtake the number of Baby Boomers this year. Born into a world shaped by technology and globalization, Gen Z brings a fresh perspective, innovative ideas, and values. Understanding and effectively leveraging these traits are crucial to harnessing the full potential of this generation in the modern workforce, especially in Kentucky.

A Gen Z employee may be unable to remember how processes and procedures were completed before the World Wide Web. Still, they have the digital fluency to show you how your current processes and procedures can be streamlined. Gen Z’s comfort with technology can drive innovation and efficiency. On the other hand, it will require your organization to adapt and grow.

Gen Z’s defining characteristics are their strong sense of social responsibility and desire for purpose-driven work. Unlike previous generations, who may have prioritized stability and financial security, Gen Z values authenticity, diversity, and social impact. They like employers who commit to corporate social responsibility, environmental sustainability, and inclusivity.

Additionally, Gen Z seeks a workplace culture that prioritizes flexibility, collaboration, and continuous learning. They value autonomy and seek opportunities for personal and professional growth. Employers offering a supportive and inclusive work environment are more likely to attract and retain Gen Z talent.

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Recruitment and Retention Strategies To effectively recruit and retain Gen Z employees, organizations must tailor their strategies to align with the values and preferences of this generation. Here are some key strategies: • Authentic Employer Branding Highlighting the company’s mission, values, and commitment to social responsibility can attract Gen Z candidates who align with these principles.

• Flexible Work Arrangements Offering flexible work arrangements, such as remote work options or flexible hours, can appeal to Gen Z’s desire for work-life balance and autonomy.

• Professional Development Opportunities Providing opportunities for skill development, mentorship, and career advancement demonstrates a commitment to employee growth and can help retain Gen Z talent.

• Diverse and Inclusive Culture Fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace culture where all employees feel valued and respected is essential for attracting and retaining Gen Z employees.

• Tech-Driven Recruitment Leveraging technology in the recruitment process, such as virtual interviews or online assessments, can streamline the hiring process and appeal to Gen Z’s digital preferences.

• Emphasis on Well-being Prioritizing employee well-being, including mental health initiatives and wellness programs, demonstrates care for employees’ holistic health and can enhance retention.

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So, how does this translate to the workforce in Kentucky?

Of the 100 companies on the Best Places to Work in Kentucky list, 68 indicated they had a strategy to recruit and retain Gen Z employees. If you think the recruitment and retention process may be complicated for your organization, look at what your peers are implementing: “We are keenly aware of the key professional priorities that matter to Gen Z, and we are incorporating those priorities into how we recruit and work. In Kentucky, we regularly recruit top talent from numerous universities and colleges, bringing Gen Z practitioners onto each team we have. These practitioners often become part of those same recruitment efforts, so the next class of candidates sees the possibilities of success from older generations and their close peers.

We endeavor to listen to national trends and our own Gen Z practitioners to continuously improve our work methods by emphasizing the vast benefits of team colocation, a clear commitment to workplace diversity, and encouraging and assisting new practitioners in developing a wide array of skills rather than focusing on specialization. We are consistently a top recruiter on Kentucky campuses, and these practitioners often form the core of our teams’ delivering results for the Commonwealth.”—Deloitte “Our workforce consists of 31% Gen Z employees.

We have strong relationships with high schools, colleges/universities, and trade schools. We have graphics, pictures, and a video on our career page for recruiting. We offer virtual interviews.

We appeal to this generation’s desire for experiences by sharing our campus amenities with discount rates, including tickets to shows, luncheons, and tasting/tours.—Logstill Distillery “Twenty-three percent of our workforce currently is Gen Z. We noticed that we needed to change benefits to ensure they did not feel left out. We lowered the age of our 401k from 21 to 18, and every eligible employee now participates in that age group.”—FNB Bank

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“Recruiting and retaining Generation Z employees requires understanding their unique characteristics, values, and preferences. ARC’s Strategy for Generation Z employees is as follows: 1. Flexible Work Environment 2. Emphasize Company Values 3. Utilize Technology in Recruitment 4. Provide Professional Development Opportunities 5. Embrace Diversity and Inclusion 6. Recognition and Feedback 7. Promote a Positive Company Culture 8. Offer Competitive Compensation 9. Prioritize Mental Health and Well-being 10. C reate Opportunities for Social Connection 11. Environmental Sustainability 12. Adapt Communication Styles” —Addiction Recovery Care, LLC “When recruiting, we consider that Gen Z is very digital, so using social media and college recruiting apps like Handshake can be effective. We promote benefits that matter to this generation, such as our culture, which promotes work/life balance and schedule flexibility with hybrid work opportunities.

We highlight our excellent healthcare benefits, generous PTO policy, and annual incentive plan.

We connect with Gen Z employees using various communication methods, including email, video conferencing, and face-to-face interactions. If we have a college intern who has been a high performer, we strive to keep them engaged and often recruit them as future employees.”

—Delta Dental of Kentucky.

As Gen Z continues to enter the workforce, your organization must adapt its strategies to attract, engage, and retain this dynamic generation.

Understanding Gen Z’s values, preferences, and priorities is key to creating a workplace environment that meets their needs and fosters growth, inclusivity, and innovation. The future belongs to those who embrace change, and by embracing Gen Z, organizations can position themselves for success in the 21st century and beyond.

Katie Raney KYSHRM Director