I’m happy to announce that Mead & Hunt was named Employer of the Year by Women’s Transportation Seminar-South Carolina chapter (WTS-SC)! WTS is an international organization dedicated to shaping the future of transportation for the public good through the global advancement of women. This award honors firms who have gone above and beyond in support of these goals. Mead & Hunt is now in the running to win the national award.
I nominated Mead & Hunt for this award because they really listen. In my senior year of engineering school, I was 49 years old. Since my career was not going to last decades, I did an enormous amount of research on the best firms to work for; Mead & Hunt was at the top of the list for employee satisfaction and retention. Whether reading posts online or speaking with employees, the message emerged that this company takes care of its employees.
After a couple of years working for the company, I can verify that the company really does put people first. All levels of leadership up to the CEO have an open-door policy; I have been able to speak openly about my goals and concerns. During my interview for the job, I expressed my desire to work on stormwater design projects, even though the position was roadway design. They hired me and taught me both roadway and stormwater, but my main responsibilities were in the areas of my interest. In the first year, I was able to design million-dollar stormwater projects. During my annual review, I spoke frankly about my career goals and requested training in new areas. This year, I made a lateral career move that aligns with my goals and interests; it is wonderful to evolve as an engineer without leaving the company.
In addition, I have seen firsthand how Mead & Hunt is dedicated to supporting and encouraging women in transportation careers. I’ve worked at Mead & Hunt for two years; all the women I am in contact with are in some form of leadership. I am in an entry-level position, but I lead the community outreach for our region and have been the lead designer for a few projects. I work with women project managers, mentors, lead designers, and ones in executive and managerial positions. Of the roughly 300 women at Mead & Hunt, around 50 are in positions of leadership. As for supporting WTS, one of my mentors at the firm originally introduced me to the organization. As a company with over 35 offices around the country, we have a diverse workforce and are committed to growth, both technically and relationally. One of the best ways to do that is through membership in organizations that reflect our strong, people-first values like WTS.
No company is flawless, but a great company will do its best to retain great people. At Mead & Hunt, people are the priority.
