2018 Employers of Choice

2018

EMPLOYERS OF

CHOICE

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2018

2 | Sunday, September 2, 2018

EMPLOYERS OF CHOICE

Courier names 2018 Employers of Choice KARRIS GOLDEN

2018 Employers of Choice

newsroom@wcfcourier.com‌

‌ nemployment rates in Cedar U Valley communities range from 2.2 to 4 percent — an average of roughly 3.1 percent overall.

This means those who seek new jobs have many choices; it’s an employee’s market.

According to Inc. magazine, job-seekers take these five things into account before accepting a job offer: salary and compensation; career growth opportunities; work-life balance; location/ commute; company and culture.

Each 2018 Courier Employer of Choice honoree has addressed all of the above.

To meet the challenge, they all had to address the area’s low unemployment rates and other factors present in their particular industries that can make recruiting, engaging and retaining employees challenging.

Advanced Heat Treat Corp.

Kryton Engineered Metals Inc.

BankIowa

PDCM Insurance

Bartels Lutheran Retirement Community

The Accel Group LLC

Buchanan County Health Center In 2018, companies nationwide, including Courier honorees, grappled with regulatory, political and economic changes that impact their bottom lines.

For some, forecasts indicate even tougher issues on the horizon.

Despite this, employee-nominators say their companies found ways to add even more value to competitive wages, flexible scheduling and work environments, excellent benefits packages, generous paid time off and wellness programs.

The 2018 group also is as di-

verse as ever, indicating the Cedar Valley offers a variety of employment opportunities: small to large companies; urban and rural settings; for-profits and not-for-profits; a few decades to nearly a century old; and individual, family, multinational and employee-ownership.

Several newcomers made the list as well as regulars and one marking its ninth time being honored. There are providers of various types of health care and lifestyle services along with manufacturers, financial professionals and public and commer-

Cedar Falls Utilities Cedar Valley Hospice Cedar Valley Medical Specialists

cial services.

Forbes magazine and Bloomberg note that to remain competitive in any industry, companies must differentiate themselves in recruiting. They also must provide robust employment offers and then remain attractive to employees well beyond the hiring process. Those

Tyson Fresh Meats UnityPoint Health-Allen Hospital Veridian Credit Union Western Home Communities Woolverton Printing that rise to the top in terms of employee engagement and loyalty regularly seek input and engage their staff in the life of the business.

In this section, you’ll learn about the 2018 Courier Employers of Choice whose employees say they work at places that do all this — and more.

EMPLOYERS OF CHOICE

Sunday, September 2, 2018 | 3

VERIDIAN CREDIT UNION

Veridian Credit Union ‘inclusive, empowering’ KARRIS GOLDEN

Veridian Credit Union

newsroom@wcfcourier.com‌

‌WATERLOO — Stacy Phillips hoped she’d make friends when she started at Veridian Credit Union 19 years ago.

Veridian exceeded her expectations, giving her a “second family.”

“Veridian has allowed me to grow as an individual and encourages continual growth into the future,” said Phillips. “They seek out better ways to serve their members as well as their employees, with a ‘What can we do to help’ perspective.”

Joe Lichty has worked at Veridian for 15 years. Flexible scheduling and a great work environment are among many reasons he enjoys his job.

“Veridian Credit Union is the best workplace because of the work culture we have built over a lot of years,” he said. “We are inclusive and empowering. Many

www.VeridianCU.org Employees: 800-plus in the Cedar Valley and Cedar Rapids, Des Moines and Council Bluffs-Omaha regions Business focus: not-forprofit, member owned financial services Leads the field in: providing low-cost savings, checking, loan, insurance and investment products COURTESY PHOTO‌

Phillips and Lichty are among Veridian Credit Union has an Employee Involvement Committee scores of employees who said they found a home at Veridian. that engages in community volunteerism throughout the year. Many nominations said the credit union’s compensation package is employees make this a career unparalleled in the Cedar Valley. because of the relationships they “Employee engagement is one build with coworkers.” of the things we pay close atten-

tion to,” said CEO Monte Berg.

“We offer competitive salary (and) retirement package, an incentive-based wellness plan and up to 100 percent of full family health coverage.”

In addition, Veridian’s executive team meets with all new employees to explain the credit union’s vision, mission and values and organizational structure.

It’s also an opportunity for all to share information about families, hobbies and other interests.

These sessions are the first of many times an employee will interact with members of the credit union’s senior management.

“We have a culture based on helping people,” Berg explained.

“I appreciate the openness and ability to connect with people throughout the organization.”

Each part- and full-time employee also has access to ongoing educational and professional development as well as opportuni-

ties to advance.

“Since day one, I have been given the chance to learn new skills to better myself and help our members,” said Michael Manager, who’s been at Veridian 20 years. “Acknowledgements are an expectation in the Veridian culture. In one-on-ones as well as other programs ... we are recognized for going above and beyond for the organization.”

With 28 years at Veridian, Berg believes the credit union’s foundation is in supporting members and employees.

“What I like about our culture is that it’s service oriented,” he explained. “We serve our member-owners. We serve each other, and we’re here to serve the community. … We try to provide an environment and resources to thrive in the workplace and outside the workplace.”

Veridian is thriving too, he added.

CEDAR VALLEY HOSPICE

Employee development is key at Cedar Valley Hospice KARRIS GOLDEN

Cedar Valley Hospice

newsroom@wcfcourier.com‌

WATERLOO — From Shannon Melcher’s perspective, she and her Cedar Valley Hospice colleagues see their work about being of service.

“Our employees often have a hard time being recognized,” explained Melcher, CVH development associate. “We are motivated by the privilege of serving at life’s most difficult times, and we find our reward in the appreciation from our patients’ families and communities.”

The knowledge that patient care hit the mark is vital, she added: Together, we share a sense of gratitude for being able to serve.”

In recent years, CVH executive leaders and managers have made

www.CVHospice.com Employees: 115

BRANDON POLLOCK, COURIER STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER‌

Nurse Marsy Becker chats with Barbara Michaelsen at Cedar Valley Hospice in Waterloo. more of a targeted effort to ensure they regularly provide employees with feedback, said Michaela Vandersee, executive director.

For one, employees take the Gallup Q12 survey. The annual, anonymous survey focuses on 12 targeted questions related to em-

ployee engagement. Among the results are an overall engagement score and a comparison of how the testing organization’s results compare with others in Gallup’s database.

The feedback can then be used to make improvements in

Business focus: compassionate, end-of-life and palliative care to patients and those who grieve Leads field in: innovative programs and community partnerships key areas, said Vandersee. While most scores were exemplary and aligned with other feedback, one score wasn’t as high as leaders want: Employees feel their opinions count.

“It wasn’t a horrible score,

but it wasn’t what we expected,” said Vandersee. “We have to acknowledge that, because that’s how we will work toward doing better.”

Through departmental meetings, all engagement areas were discussed. Leaders also used the sessions to ask for advice, she added.

“We talked about what it looks like to them to have their opinion listened to and asked what they need … to feel like they’re being heard,” said Vandersee. “Then, we worked out an action plan, and teams are responsible for making sure they’re following them.”

It speaks to an attitude of mutual openness and trust that’s consistent across the organization, said Jennifer Siech.

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EMPLOYERS OF CHOICE

“I love the culture, the benefits and

the flexibility.”

- Amy, Loan Officer

After 15 years at Veridian, Amy enjoys feeling empowered and valued each day. Experience the Veridian difference and find your new career today.

We’re honored to be named a top Employer of Choice for the second year in a row.

veridiancu.org/careers

EMPLOYERS OF CHOICE

Sunday, September 2, 2018 | 5

PDCM INSURANCE

JOIN OUR GROWING TEAM OF HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS

Our comprehensive benefits package includes:

COURTESY PHOTO‌

Feedback and good communication are core values at PDCM.

Core values at the heart KARRIS GOLDEN

newsroom@wcfcourier.com‌

‌WATERLOO — As president of PDCM Insurance, Chris Fereday leads a company with more than 100 years in the Cedar Valley.

To do so, he tends to focus on basic values.

“We continually ask ourselves what kind of corporation do we want to work for, and then we create that,” he said. “If you listen, clients and employees tell you what’s important to them.

Then we try to do that, and it goes a long way.”

Take PDCM’s corporate values, which include things like “do what’s right,” “take ownership” and “live a balanced life.” Fereday said it comes from recognizing that employees are loyal to a company that understands their personal needs.

“Over the last five years, we’ve doubled in size as an agency,” Fereday explained. “We’ve done that through newer product offerings, merger and acquisition activity.”

That growth also was driven by the belief that engaged employees pass that positivity onto clients, said John Monaghan, a PDCM partner.

PDCM Insurance www.PDCM.com Employees: 60 Business focus: customized insurance plans for individuals and businesses through use of trademarked Risk Reduction Approach Leads field in: Experienced, engaged insurance professionals who serve clients and the community “We have a unified motivation to serve our clients and have fun at work,” he explained. “Culture isn’t a pingpong table or Kegerator you roll out on Friday afternoons; culture is caring about people and doing what’s right. That’s what resonates well with employees.”

Likewise, many nominators said that while they receive and and enjoy competitive, lucrative wage and benefit packages, the real perk is PDCM’s atmosphere of collaboration and respect.

“PDCM’s values are displayed throughout the building as a reminder to both employees and clients why we do what we do,”

said Nathan Link. “A couple of them relate to living a balanced life and giving back to pay forward. We hear from top management at least once a month with updates on successes and potential opportunities.”

Kelsey Foust said the things she learns at PDCM help her grow professionally and personally.

“Within our department, our team leader conducts monthly trainings specific to our departmental needs and within the company,” she added. “Monthly lunch and learns are offered on various topics, like public speaking, emotional IQ and interpersonal communication.”

PDCM also exposes staffers to things like using “SMART goals,” Foust added. This tool ensures goals are “specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and timebound.”

Fereday and Monaghan like to hear efforts to engage and empower employees have paid off, and they don’t rest on their laurels.

“I think we continually look for feedback from employees,” said Monaghan. “When we get that feedback, we respond.”

•Premier Wages

•403(b) and IPERS

•Health, Vision, and Dental Insurance

•Paid Time Off •Tuition Assistance

See why over 250 healthcare professionals call us their Employer of Choice by joining our growing team!

Apply online at bchealth.org/careers

BCHC is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Thank You

for voting PDCM Insurance Employer of Choice in the Cedar Valley!

Here’s to our dedicated employees who make it possible to provide SMARTER insurance solutions.

PDCM.com | 800-373-2821

EMPLOYERS OF CHOICE

6 | Sunday, September 2, 2018

UNITYPOINT HEALTH-ALLEN HOSPITAL

Nurturing culture of care, respect KARRIS GOLDEN

UnityPoint HealthAllen Hospital

newsroom@wcfcourier.com‌

‌WATERLOO — In 36 years, Kim Lodge has seen UnityPoint Health-Allen Hospital from many angles.

“I would say UnityPoint-Allen Hospital is the best because of the way the team members are treated: respectfully and (with) high esteem,” she said. “It is difficult work, and we are given the tools we need to provide ideal patient care.”

Kim French agrees. She has logged 26 years and believes UPH-Allen cares about employees and families — and co-workers support each other.

“A family where both spouses work at UnityPoint recently had a house fire, and everyone came together to help them out,” said French. “It was inspiring.”

Clear focus and direction creates trust, said Lodge.

“Pam, our leader, provides a vision of where we are going and how we are going to get there,” she explained. “Daily, she lets us know what she expects in our culture by how she treats us, and she’s a role model for how we should treat others.”

www.UnityPoint.org/Waterloo Employees: 3,200 Business focus: not-for-profit community hospital with more than two dozen medical and clinical specialties COURTESY PHOTO‌

Employees on the UnityPoint Health-Allen Hospital Engagement Committee participate in an innovation simulation activity.

CEO Pam Delagardelle is grateful that UPH-Allen team members have received the message she and other leaders have sent. She’s also “humbled, grateful and proud” that employees regularly nominate the facility as an Employer of Choice.

“Our people are amazing; they keep me energized,” she said.

“Health care is stressful. This is an incredibly complex industry.

But our team is often at our best under pressure.”

In July, when a tornado touched down at a sister hospital

in Marshalltown, Delagardelle saw employees demonstrate their commitment to service.

“I am so proud of how our team members from Marshalltown, Waterloo and Grundy Center pulled together to take care of a community in crisis.

We had to encourage each other to take time to rest; everyone wanted to be sure we were there for patients who needed us. …

We take care of each other and we get through those stressful days together.”

That’s at the heart of what makes UPH-Allen, she added.

BUCHANAN COUNTY HEALTH CENTER

Work-life balance important KARRIS GOLDEN

newsroom@wcfcourier.com‌

INDEPENDENCE — Kelsey ‌ Reck knows it can be tough for a long-standing institution to keep up with the times.

Her employer, Buchanan County Health Center, is among the Cedar Valley’s historic organizations that has made strides toward keeping up with an ever changing market, she said.

Please see BUCHANAN, Page 9

Becky Booggess, left, teaches a spin class at Buchanan County Health Center.

MATTHEW PUTNEY, COURIER PHOTO EDITOR‌

Leads field in: cares for more inpatients, outpatients and emergency and cardiac patients within 10-county service area than any other facility The entire health system emphasizes clearly defined core values.

“We work hard to live our ‘FOCUS’ values every day,” explained Delagardelle. “Our val-

ues are the foundation for the culture we’ve built here. We have people who truly care about the patients, families and guests they serve.”

“FOCUS” describes key values of UPH employees. F stands for “foster unity”; O, “own the moment”; C, “champion excellence”; U, “unity begins with you”; and S, “seize opportunities.”

“People stop me in the grocery store (and) at church and tell me how much our team members impacted them during a health care visit or inpatient stay,” said Delagardelle. “Sometimes, our team members literally give the shirt off their back or the shoes they’re wearing to a patient in need. One of our people worked with a young man who couldn’t drive and personally took him to get his license.”

Volunteers Nurses Donors Teammates Our people are amazing.

Techs Physicians Partners Mentors Advocates Leaders

EMPLOYERS OF CHOICE

Sunday, September 2, 2018 | 7

TYSON FRESH MEATS

Leading the Cedar Valley in diversity KARRIS GOLDEN

newsroom@wcfcourier.com‌

‌ ATERLOO — With nearly W 3,000 employees, Tyson Fresh Meats is the city’s third-largest employer.

In terms of workforce, Tyson also is most representative of the area’s full demographic makeup.

“The Tyson Fresh Meats Plant is the No. 1 diverse employer in the Cedar Valley,” said Gwen Timmerman, Tyson community liaison.

The plant’s team members represent 48 nationalities, said Thomas Hart, plant manager.

“It’s amazing,” he said. “We really try to lift up all of the cultures as much as we can. We want everyone who comes in the door to be treated the same and have the same opportunities.”

The move toward such diversity happened somewhat organically, he added. It started in the early 1990s, when Bosnian refugees relocated to Waterloo.

In subsequent years, the plant became a top employer for other

refugees — from Burma, Liberia and Democratic Republic of Congo.

“They find us through word of mouth — friends who wind up here for certain reasons,” said Hart. “We do help by trying to recognize as many languages as we can. … If there is a language barrier, we try to find a way to overcome that.”

There are currently eight prominent languages at the plant and more than 40 offline interpreters. In addition, signage and boards display translations in the primary languages spoken there, to ensure as much understanding as possible.

“We’ve made a strong effort to engage employees,” said Hart.

“We have a long way to go, but I believe we’re doing a lot of things well.”

When an employee is ready, the plant also assists with free English as a second language courses.

“These interpreters on our teams do more than translate at

Tyson Fresh Meats www.Tyson.com Employees: 2,900 Business focus: produce branded beef and pork products for retail and foodservice partners Leads field in: service, quality, innovation and growth in the global food market

THOMAS NELSON, THOMAS.NELSON@WCFCOURIER.COM‌

David Day practices his kicks prior to competing in Tyson’s Pork Cup with the Waterloo Karenni Nation team Aug. 11. work,” said Hart. “They’re leaders in the community and help with so much more outside of work with things like getting a driver’s license.”

The plant also offers a chap-

laincy program to help team members navigate issues at work and in their personal lives.

Across the board, the Tyson employment package has helped recruit and retain employees,

said Hart. Production wages now range from $16 to $19.50 per hour. Maintenance workers start $21 per hour, and administrative employees start at more than $30 per hour.

In addition, there is a company stock purchase program, retirement savings and vacation and holiday pay. Tyson offers a 70 percent tuition reimbursement program, and has arranged for some courses to be taught at the plant.

WOOLVERTON PRINTING CO.

It’s a family affair at Woolverton Printing Co. KARRIS GOLDEN

newsroom@wcfcourier.com‌

‌CEDAR FALLS — Among the city’s longest tenured employers is Woolverton Printing Co. Woolverton is locally owned and has been led by the same family for four generations.

In turn, several generations of employees have appreciated the small company’s focus on quality products and services, stable jobs and a family atmosphere.

“Woolverton is a very down-to earth-company that cares very much about their employees and their families,” said employee Velma Cordes of Stout.

John Lynch, CEO

In 2013, Sheila Cordes, her daughter and co-worker, was diagnosed with stage IV colorectal cancer. “(Woolverton) worked with us every inch of the way for four years,” Velma

recalled.

During Sheila’s illness, co-workers rallied around her.

They also were active in community fundraisers that helped defray her medical expenses.

Sheila died in July 2017 at age 50.

More than a year later, Woolverton offers reminders of Sheila, and Velma is grateful her co-workers grieve with her. www.woolverton.com “They care,” said Velma. “The boss has sat down and talked to Employees: 40 me on numerous occasions to Business focus: progressive, ask me how I’m doing.” high-quality design, content, Other employees have expeprinting and fulfillment rienced similar support from co-workers and managers, Leads field in: innovative Velma added; that’s the way digital and press solutions things are at Woolverton.

Growth has been another constant since the company got its company at the turn of the 20th century in Osage. start more than 100 years ago.

Roy Woolverton founded the In 1920, he moved the business

Woolverton Printing Company

to the city. According to company records and Courier archives, the move was professionally and personally beneficial.

Here, Woolverton expanded his business to include commercial clients while maintaining a core church clientele. He also enrolled his daughters in Iowa State Teachers College, now the University of Northern Iowa.

Years of strategic, targeted business development followed.

Almost 20 years after moving to a 21,000-square-foot facility in the Industrial Park, Woolverton has expanded its building to more than 41,000 square feet.

8 | Sunday, September 2, 2018

EMPLOYERS OF CHOICE

— Tyson Foods is proud to be nominated for 2018 Employer of Choice.

Visit us at tysonfoods.com

EMPLOYERS OF CHOICE

Sunday, September 2, 2018 | 9

KRYTON ENGINEERED METALS INC.

Living a ‘faith, family, work’ motto KARRIS GOLDEN

newsroom@wcfcourier.com‌

‌CEDAR FALLS — For years, Kevin Harberts was unsure of his company’s future, struggling to get by and sometimes worrying if it would get back to even.

Through trial, error and introspection, the owner and president of Kryton Engineered Metals now believes he’s found the right path — for the company and his own leadership philosophy.

“You can pay lip-service and tell employees ‘we’re family — rah, rah, rah,’ but if you don’t do more than give lip service, it doesn’t go very far,” he said.

“When you tell people you care about them, you help them through life — that’s what you do. If something happens and you don’t, what good is that?”

Ian Davis and his co-workers take Harberts at his word.

“The culture is what really sets Kryton apart from other companies,” Davis explained. “Kevin

Buchanan From 6

“Even while taking on a large variety of projects to update the facility, the management team is still very in tune to what employees need,” she said. “Family, quality of life and work-life balance are all huge areas of emphasis amongst the management and their staff.”

Fourteen years ago, Lisa Johnson decided to leave a job at a much larger hospital to work at BCHC. “I believe it was one of the best choices I have made, not only in my working career but also for my family,” she said.

BCHC CEO Steve Slessor places particular emphasis on employee engagement. He believes there has been progress and plans continued growth.

“We’ve been working pretty

has said he wants a family atmosphere and holds true to that motto.”

Harberts models his beliefs, Davis added. He and his co-workers said they’re impressed by Harberts’ frankness, ability to admit mistakes and the trust he instills.

Kryton is a family that helps all its members, said Jason Mathern.

“Recently, we’ve had some unfortunate things happen to a few of our employees,” he explained.

“One employee was dealing with a lost loved one and another with his wife’s (illness).”

The way Kryton’s senior management dispatched with business aspects of employees’ struggles was instructive, Mathern added.

“Knowing these employees would be off for a very long time, it was never an option to do anything but fully support them in their tough journey ahead,” he said. “I can’t say enough about

Buchanan County Health Center www.BCHealth.org Employees: 250 Business focus: multiservice health care center with 18 clinical and 15 medical specialties, wellness center, longterm care and retirement community Leads field in: assisting its community members “at every life transition”

hard on that piece,” he said. “It’s certainly a journey that is not over.” Being honored as a Courier Employer of Choice for the second time in his five-year tenure as CEO is a “milestone that we’re doing some of the things right.”

“Giving people the ability to

Kryton Engineered Metals www.KrytonMetals.com Employees: 90 Business focus: manufacturers spun metal component and fabrication parts Leads field in: evolving to adapt to changing world of production technology

COURTESY PHOTO‌

Kevin Harberts is CEO of Kryton. our ‘Faith, Family, Work’ motto; we truly live that here at Kryton.”

The sense that employees believe they’re valued and feel loyal to Kryton wasn’t there in the past, said Harberts.

During the mid-2000s, the company struggled to fill or-

grow professionally and keep advancing themselves — and hopefully want to grow within our organization — helps relationship-building with our important partners as well.”

For example, there is a program that helps certified nurses aids continue with their education and advance.

“We’ve had our first one become (a registered nurse),” said Slessor.

“She has stayed with us and filled a much-needed RN position.”

Two more CNAs will soon become RNs, and there are RNs professing toward becoming certified nurse practitioners.

The program came about from an ongoing dialogue between staff and management — feedback that was crucial to filling an unmet need. “We definitely do our best to listen to our employees and do absolutely make changes based on their feedback.”

ders. Customers were dissatisfied. Employees updated their resumes.

The future was uncertain, said Harberts. If most things didn’t change, he’d face closure. He realized he must first fix the biggest problem: himself.

“For the first 20 years, I didn’t

know what my purpose was,” he recalled. “I thought, ‘I’ll build this company. I’ll build things.

And I’ll help people and organizations.’ I didn’t realize my real purpose in life is to take care of these 90 people who work here at Kryton.”

Once Harberts acknowledged this, he started trying to become the leader his employees deserved.

He also started investing in his employees’ future. That included more and better compensation and benefits; well-defined career advancement options; educational opportunities; and improved work spaces.

Today, Harberts focuses on the people, he said. He and the management team tweak old models and try new things, based on staff feedback.

THANK YOU TO OUR EMPLOYEES

For making us a Cedar Valley Employer of choice.

7314 Chancellor Dr, Cedar Falls, IA 50613 (319)266-1771 • htpp://krytonmetals.com/

EMPLOYERS OF CHOICE

10 | Sunday, September 2, 2018

CEDAR VALLEY MEDICAL SPECIALISTS

Compassion, understanding at the heart of CVMS KARRIS GOLDEN

newsroom@wcfcourier.com‌

‌ ATERLOO — Debbie SeW bekow embraces the business model of her employer because it emphasizes cooperation, communication and coordinated care.

“Cedar Valley Medical Specialists is a family-oriented company,” she said.

She and her co-workers approach their work, patients and each other with compassion and understanding, added Sebekow, who works in CVMS administration offices.

“Our company takes great pride in helping patients and the families of all that we serve,” she said. “They really care about the welfare of patients and their families, who come to rely on them.”

Established in 1995, the founding CVMS physicians set out to provide independent, comprehensive, centralized administrative and practice management for health care professionals.

Their goal was to maintain individual, independent physician ownership while securing cost-effective professional business management. To that end, they pooled business services like transcription, information technology, transcription and records, accounts payable and receivable and more.

This model has allowed physicians, advanced practice and mid-level practitioners and support staff in a wide array of healthcare specialties to concentrate on patients and their care, said Connie Hix, CVMS human resources manager.

The success of the plan also spurred steady growth over twoplus decades, she added.

“Putting all that together under one roof allowed each physician to stay in their own office location,” Hix explained. “We have 52 physicians in more than 20 different specialties and offices all around the area.”

Today, CVMS remains 100 per-

Cedar Valley Medical Specialists CedarValleyMedical.com Employees: 402 Business focus: independent group of medical specialists and professionals serving northeastern Iowa in eight counties and 11 regional hospitals Leads field in: high quality, cost-efficient patient care through effective delivery of services and resources cent locally owned, which allows its health care providers to serve a higher number of patients at a wider variety of hospitals.

Physicians appreciate that their primary emphasis can be on health care, not office management.

“With Cedar Valley Medical Specialists, it’s always patients first,” said Dr. David Congdon. “I can focus on taking care of people, performing my surgeries and making sure my patients get better.”

The highly competitive market for health care employees and the metro area’s low unemployment rate can pose staffing challenges, said Hix. Prospective employees gravitate to CVMS because it offers flexibility and a competitive edge.

This includes desirable clinic work hours and excellent compensation, health benefits, paid time off and an attractive retirement plans.

“I think a lot of our long-term employees appreciate benefits are very good within this area,” she explained. “For many, taking care of patients in the clinic setting and working with providers is an attractive option.”

Physicians and staff members note the appeal of working within a system that minimizes bureaucracy while prioritizing patient care.

We want to thank our healthcare and administrative professionals for making Cedar Valley Medical Specialists a great place to work and an Employer of Choice.

Why Employees Choose Us: • • • •

A team-oriented environment Committed to excellent patient care Quality employee benefits A satisfying and rewarding career

FOR MORE DETAILS ON OPEN POSITIONS, PLEASE VISIT: VISI

319-235-5390 4150 Kimball Ave. Waterloo, Iowa 50701

EMPLOYERS OF CHOICE

Sunday, September 2, 2018 | 11

THE ACCEL GROUP

A culture of business, employee growth KARRIS GOLDEN

The Accel Group

newsroom@wcfcourier.com‌

‌WAVERLY — When Mike Byl joined The Accel Group, he was the insurance agency’s sixth employee. It was the early 1990s. The company was housed in a small storefront. Cell phones were rare and came in bags. Business transpired on paper, not computers.

In 25 years, the Accel Group has grown to nearly 80 employees, with offices here and in Cedar Falls. In January, Accel also merged with the former Millhiser Smith Agency in Cedar Rapids. “(The merger) definitely improved our reach into Cedar Rapids, Iowa City and Coralville,” said Byl, Accel president.

Years of progress put space at a premium, and employees adapted. While the Waverly headquarters is a “great facility,” said Byl, it’s “busting at the seams.”

The same goes for Cedar Falls.

www.AccelAdvantage.com Employees: 75 Business focus: Independent, full-service insurance and financial products BRANDON POLLOCK, COURIER STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER‌

From left, Traci Magsamen and Jamie Harken collaborate on some work at the Accel Group in Waverly.

With that in mind, a larger building is under construction on the southern edge of town.

“We want to develop space that allows us to have the space to grow as our business continues to grow,” Byl explained. “We’re studying how that’s going to occur and where those people will be.”

Accel hopes to spark an interest in insurance among prospective employees in their 20s and 30s.

Currently, most new employees are recommended by staff members, who promote Accel as a great place to work, said Tina Miller, human resources director.

She has started attending area college career fairs to educate prospects about available opportunities.

“We want to raise awareness about who we are and what we do,” she said.

Leads field in: commercial, crop and livestock insurance; employee benefits and retirement plans; and personal home, auto, life and health policies For several years, Accel has achieved steady growth through methodical hiring processes and targeted retention efforts, said Byl. “In the last decade, we’ve probably grown at a percentage of 10 to 12 percent per year,” he said.

“Our approach as an agency is to take the time to ensure we’re hiring people who fit with the work

culture. That’s why we have the quality of staff we have today.”

Frequently, existing and prospective employees seek amenities like collaborative work spaces, comfortable outdoor areas, stand-up desks and the ability to work remotely, he added.

“As an agency, we’re trying to be more creative about how we recruit and retain employees,” he added. “We want to be an employer of choice for millennials, as we look to a future where they comprise 75 percent of the workforce.”

Focused recruitment and retention efforts have mutual benefits, said Miller.

“Opportunities for continued learning and development are supported by the agency,” she said. “All continuing education and training is paid for and additional designations are offered for everyone.”

We stand out, because of our OUTSTANDING TEAM. JOIN US and experience the difference.

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Individual, Business and AgriBusiness Solutions

EMPLOYERS OF CHOICE

12 | Sunday, September 2, 2018

WESTERN HOME COMMUNITIES

Offering employees flexibility, support Beth Hines, behind the wheel, takes Barbara Heisinger for a spin. Beth serves as household coordinator at Nation Cottage and helped raise funds to purchase a Polaris Ranger so residents in a nursing level of care could get outside and enjoy rides in the fresh air.

KARRIS GOLDEN

newsroom@wcfcourier.com‌

‌CEDAR FALLS — New employees want to make a good first impression — and preserve it.

That was Tammy Schmitt’s goal when she started working at Western Home Communities.

She was pleased when her employer made a good impression, too.

“From your first day on the job, you are welcomed with open arms and made to feel like a part of the team,” she recalled.

Three weeks in, she feared losing some of the credibility she’d built up in her short time at WHC. “I received news from my dad that my mom was being transported to Iowa City Hospitals via ambulance because of a problem that was discovered during an emergency room visit,” she said. “I immediately went to my supervisor and was told not to worry about my job — to go and be with my family.”

Flexibility and employee support are the primary reasons Matt Garcia relocated so he could work at WHC in 2014.

In particular, he was impressed by the mission statement: “Western Home Communities is a charitable, Christian service organization that assertively create fulfilling lifestyles for residents, their families and our employees.”

“What drew me was … the part that reads ‘we assertively create fulfilling lifestyles,’” explained Garcia. “I am happy to do my best to support this work.”

Growth has been top of mind at Western Home Communities the past several years, thanks to multiple renovations and expansion projects. Most recently, that includes a $52 million expansion that offers a variety of community-based services.

Likewise, professional development is one way WHC supports growth among its employees, said Bethany Wentink.

chasing and so much more.”

Rochelle Kane believes working for WHC has helped her broaden her opportunities. She’s found the workplace culture to be uplifting and encouraging.

“I have had opportunities to participate in things like the Cedar Valley Leadership Institute and Jaycees,” she said. “It’s great working at a place that values me

and this community.”

The organization’s emphasis on professional and personal growth is empowering, said Traci Johnson.

“There are numerous opportunities throughout the company for advancement as well as learning other areas of employment (at) Western Home Communities,” she added.

Thank you,employees....

Western Home Communities cook Jacob Schafer works on food prep for the lunch crowd at Caraway Cafe, a new restaurant inside Jorgensen Plaza that is open to the public.

COURTESY PHOTO‌S

“(WHC) believes in education and empowers individuals to pursue their dreams,” she said.

“They offer scholarships and tuition reimbursement. They help people get their CNA and CMA. There’s also flexible scheduling for those in nursing school, money to take up to four college classes per year, textbook pur-

Western Home Communities WesternHomeCommunities.org Employees: 780 Business focus: long-term care and independent residential retirement community living

...for caring, serving and creating a strong workplace culture.

You live our mission every day.

Leads the field in: innovative, individualized care for those living with dementia

www.WesternHomeCommunities.org/Careers

EMPLOYERS OF CHOICE

Sunday, September 2, 2018 | 13

BANKIOWA

Staff takes pride in being ‘BankIowans’ had their stories of success supported by BankIowa.

Lori Eschen has been at the bank 28 years and said she can’t imagine working anywhere else.

“I started part-time on nights,” she said. “I have worked my way up the ladder and now hold an AVP position in the operations area.”

KARRIS GOLDEN

newsroom@wcfcourier.com‌

INDEPENDENCE — As a ‌ BankIowa employee based in Cedar Rapids, Mark Sillman could feel somewhat isolated from co-workers.

That hasn’t been the case, he said.

“BankIowa is a very large team,” Sillman explained. “Anyone at any time would jump in and help or do whatever is needed to assist you. Team members are constantly recognized for their contributions, from small to large.”

Including others and widening the circle has been essential to the institution’s development, said Rob Robinson, CEO. BankIowa’s history in Buchanan County goes back more than 90 years. In the early 1990s, the institution began making inroads into Waterloo, Cedar Falls and Cedar Rapids.

In addition to branches here and in those cities, BankIowa offers locations in Jesup, Lamont and Norway. It currently posts $650 million in assets, with aims at $1 billion.

Through growth, expansion and changing times and technology, the bank remains a closely held, privately owned institution, said Robinson.

“That has a huge influence.

The majority ownership is a family, and they’re very interested in the well-being of employees,” he explained.

Staff have more than just an employment stake; 10 percent of the bank’s ownership comes from the employee stock ownership program.

“Employees have taken it upon themselves to promote that,” said Robinson. “When you have an influence every day on our bottom line, its a very good sales tool and big motivator.”

It speaks to a high level of employee engagement, he added. A common staff trait is to pitch in

THANK YOU

for naming Advanced Heat Treat an Employer of Choice for the past two years.

JOIN OUR TEAM. APPLY AT AHTJOBS.COM

COURTESY PHOTO‌

BankIowa employees participate in a local parade.

BankIowa www.BankIowa.com Employees: 140 Business focus: commercial banking services for business and consumer clients Leads field in: mortgage lending and investment and trust services and differentiate themselves.

“When you ask our employees about what our culture is, they’ll say that we try to put employees first whenever we can,” said Robinson. “Because we’ve been that way forever, people have a lot of

faith and confidence in that.”

Employee Kristi Vandenburg said she’s one of those people.

“The way BankIowa treats staff and endless opportunities we have … always amazes me,” she said.

Vandenburg started at BankIowa in an entry level position. “(I) knew that in order to learn the business and prove myself, I had to learn from the ground up,” she explained. “We are never treated as anything less than an asset.”

She took advantage of a tuition reimbursement program available to full-time employees.

Her experience is similar to those of other employees, who

Support is evident, said Shelly Whited, noting the institution offers $1,000 college scholarships to children of staff members.

Faith and confidence bestowed by employees is the foundation of BankIowa’s work culture, said Alison Urbina, president.

EMPLOYERS OF CHOICE

14 | Sunday, September 2, 2018

CEDAR FALLS UTILITIES

Marking 9 years as Employer of Choice KARRIS GOLDEN

Cedar Falls Utilities

newsroom@wcfcourier.com‌

‌CEDAR FALLS — Nine times.

That’s nine years — in a row.

That’s how long Cedar Falls Utilities employees have claimed a place for their company on the Courier’s list of Employers of Choice.

Adulation hasn’t diminished.

“We are blessed with the best,” said Ashley Hovey. “The management is fantastic. The co-workers are great. Everyone is very supportive of each other.”

Newcomer Mike Litterer was grateful to secure employment at CFU. “I am continually impressed with the organization’s commitment to our community and employees,” he said.

Many employees appreciate the company’s open flow of communication in all directions.

Hovey noted online tools that allow employees to track personal development, as well as regular feedback from her manager.

“Family comes first here,” she added. “There is a wonderful family- and work-life balance here.”

www.CFU.net Employees: 194 Business focus: municipal provider of communications, gas, water and electrical services

COURTESY PHOTO‌

A CFU employee interacts with a customer at a customer appreciation event.

plained. “They gave me a lot of grace and support as my wife was Employee Joe Smith pointed battling cancer this past year. to the public utility’s mission: That meant the world to me.” “to provide our customers with As CFU general manager, Steve innovative, high quality services that bring the best value to the community.”

“I love working for a company that has such a mission and delivers on it,” Smith said.

At CFU, Smith also found a support network that extends beyond work hours.

“They are family-centered and care about my quality of life at home and in the office,” he ex-

ADVANCED HEAT TREAT

MATTHEW PUTNEY, COURIER PHOTO EDITOR‌

Steve Pasker, left, and Adam Kane, right, remove a cooled rack of parts and bushings at Advanced Heat Treat in Waterloo.

Employee longevity cherished plied for my position, I had never heard of AHT and had no knowl‌WATERLOO — Jennifer Lassen edge of what they did,” she said.

Today, she now knows AHT’s believes she works at one of “the Cedar Valley’s best-kept secrets.”

“Three years ago, when I apPlease see ADVANCED, Page 15 KARRIS GOLDEN

newsroom@wcfcourier.com‌

Leads field in: providing innovative, high quality public services

Bernard wants employees to have everything they need to do their jobs.

“From my perspective, we’re pretty proud to be named an Employer of Choice again, because it says we provide an environment employees can flourish in and that employees take pride in where they’re at,” Bernard said.

It’s important that CFU provides employees what they need to do their jobs well, he explained.

As a result, he stresses attention to things others consider small details.

For example, field workers were fixing underground cables in July, when heat indices topped 100 degrees.

“They made a point of speaking up to thank management for giving them the tools they needed to do the job efficiently and safely,” Bernard recalled. “That’s really gratifying to hear.”

The company also employs a health and safety coordinator who goes to job sites and evaluates safety and ergonomics. A physical therapist helps employees stave off repetitive motion injuries.

It’s an added touch provided by few employers, said Bernard.

“It’s a sign that we want our employees to be healthy — to have no aches and pains and physical challenges when they go home in the evening.”

EMPLOYERS OF CHOICE

Sunday, September 2, 2018 | 15

BARTELS LUTHERAN RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

Faith-based focus positive for employees, residents KARRIS GOLDEN

Bartels Lutheran Retirement Community

newsroom@wcfcourier.com‌

‌ AVERLY — Employees at W Bartels Lutheran Retirement Community might compare their own growth and development to that of their employer.

Bartels opened in 1954 and has since served more than 5,400 residents. It has transitioned from being a “Lutheran home for the aged,” as its sign once read, to a multilevel retirement community with a true spectrum of options and services for retirement living, said Deb Schroeder, Bartels president and CEO. Bartels now encompasses nursing care, skilled nursing and rehab and Alzheimer’s and dementia care. It also offers an assisted living facility and two thriving independent living communities.

The organization has done all this while remaining at its original site on the northern part of the city. Many employees have followed a similar path — putting down roots at Bartels while continuing to learn and grow in their professions.

“Longevity abounds, and Bartels trains in-house to help staff move forward in their careers,” said Schroeder, who’s celebrating her 22nd year there. “Chris-

Advanced From 14

provides heat treat services and metallurgical solutions touch everything from pins in pacemakers to vehicle steering columns and even “jaws of life” equipment.

The company’s products and processes cross several industries, and its client list spans the globe.

“AHT truly cares about employee quality of life, always encouraging family first,” said Lassen. “Many benefits are provided, such as competitive wages, extremely lucrative (paid

BartelsCommunity.org Employees: 250 Business focus: progressive, not-for-profit Christian healthcare facility with “residents first” philosophy Leads field in: spectrum of services, including nursing care, skilled nursing and rehab, dementia care, assisted living and two independent living communities

tian values and a true ministry as a great place to live and work.” phasis on continuing to expand and helps Bartels Lutheran RetireIn keeping with Bartels’ faith- evolve both the services offered and ment Community to be known based focus, there’s a strategic em- the experiences of residents, their

families and employees.

Yordonna Kittle enjoys working for an employer with that sort of vision.

“Bartels is always implementing new ideas and better ways to serve our residents, with the most updated equipment and technology,” she added. “They strive very hard to make the environment … inviting to everyone who may stop by to visit, always keeping in mind not only the residents and family members but also employees.”

time off structure), ongoing professional training and tuition reimbursement.”

AHT’s investment in human www.AHTWeb.com resources is a foundational principle of founder and CEO Gary Employees: 170 Sharp, displayed at the compaBusiness focus: 4 labs ofny’s headquarters: “Loyal people fering multiservice metal are at the heart of Advanced Heat heat-treating Treat Corp.

Working at AHT means a lot Leads field in: state-of-themore than just starting work and industry metallurgical reearning a paycheck. Employsearch, development, equipment signifies a commitment ment and technology — commitment from you to the company and a life commitment from the company to you.” “(AHT) consistently practices Adam Dehl has worked at AHT our ‘core values’ of service, infor 22 years and said he can’t tegrity, loyalty, teamwork, pasimagine working anywhere else. sion and professionalism,” he

longevity is a cherished goal.

“Over 25 percent of the workforce has been with the company 15 years or more — a testament to how great AHT is,” said Lassen.

Founded in Waterloo in 1981, AHT is now recognized as a world leader in heat treatment and specializes in plasma/ion nitriding, noted Mikel Woods, president.

Over the years, the company has set industry standards through the use of finely calibrated equipment and controlled laboratory conditions.

“Because the work and equipment used is so unique, all employees are trained from the ground up,” she explained.

COURTESY PHOTO‌

A college sports rivalry with residents and staff at Bartels Lutheran Retirement community keeps things fun.

Advanced Heat Treat Corp.

said. “These values are a way of life at AHT.” When Dehl started at AHT, he was especially appreciative of benefits and perks that weren’t a norm at many industrial companies.

“The flexibility of schedule and vacation package are fantastic,” he explained. “The way they allow for work/home balance is the only way I got through having young kids. … Being able to come to work and know that you matter to your company is priceless.”

Dehl is among many employees who have stayed with AHT for more than a decade. For relative newcomers like Lassen, such

16 | Sunday, September 2, 2018

EMPLOYERS OF CHOICE

Residents First Join our team!

Independent • Assisted • Nursing • Skilled Rehabilitation • Memory Care Bartels Lutheran Retirement Community • 1922 5th Avenue NW • Waverly, IA 50677 319-352-4540 • www.bartelscommunity.org