The “Best Places to Work” in Southeast Minnesota were recently announced, marking the 15th annual celebration of exceptional workplace cultures in the region. This initiative, conducted by Workforce Development, Inc. (WDI) and the Workforce Development Boards of Southeast Minnesota and Winona, recognizes companies that excel in creating positive work environments across eleven counties, including Dodge, Fillmore, Freeborn, Goodhue, Houston, Mower, Olmsted, Rice, Steele, Wabasha, and Winona. A rigorous assessment by national consulting firm Personnel Dynamics identified fifteen companies as leading examples in employee engagement and workplace innovation.
This year’s honorees include Mower County’s Cooperative Response Center, Inc., located in Austin. The distinguished companies were categorized by size as follows:
- Small Employer (under 50 employees)
- City of Byron
- Arcadian Bank
- Rushford State Bank
- Southeast Service Cooperative
- Southern Minnesota Municipal Power Agency
- Mid-Size Employer (50-150 employees)
- Cooperative Response Center, Inc.
- Custom Alarm
- New Age Tree Service
- Pace International
- People’s Energy Cooperative
- Large Employer (Over 150 employees)
- Benike Construction
- City of Albert Lea
- Gemini, Inc.
- Olmsted County
- Strongwell
The winning companies gain more than just recognition. They are granted the privilege to use the “Best Places to Work” logo in their promotional materials, receive a custom event banner for display, and enjoy a year of accolades within their communities and respective industries. This award serves as a testament to their dedication to prioritizing employee well-being and fostering inclusive workplaces. The 2025 recipients were honored at the annual Workforce Development Forum held on April 3 at the Rochester International Event Center.
The Everyday Impact
The recognition of the “Best Places to Work” in Southeast Minnesota significantly impacts local communities and industries by emphasizing the importance of nurturing positive work environments. For job seekers, the award provides a clear indication of which employers prioritize employee satisfaction and development, thereby influencing career decisions and attracting talented individuals to the region.
For the companies themselves, the award not only enhances their reputation but also strengthens employee morale and attracts potential employees who value workplace culture. This recognition underscores a company’s commitment to leading with purpose and care, contributing to a more engaged and productive workforce. Overall, this initiative bolsters community pride and sets a benchmark for other companies striving to improve their workplace environments.