Perspectives 2023 Best Firms To Work For Awards – Zweig Group

BranchPattern is thrilled to share that we have received two of Zweig Group’s “2023 Best Firms To Work For Awards!” Zweig Group is the leading research, publishing, and advisory resource for architecture, engineering, planning, & environmental consulting firms.  

Awards are given in multiple categories based on firm size and discipline. BranchPattern’s awards include: 

• In multi-discipline firms, we ranked #10 (out of 66) 
• In firms with 100-199 employees, we ranked #6 (out of 38) 

The Evaluation 

Awarded firms are ranked based on a variety of factors from both management and staff perspectives including: 

• Firm Culture 
• Workplace Practices 
• Employee Benefits 
• Employee Retention Rates 
• Professional Development 

This in-depth evaluation acts as a strong and industry-customized benchmarking tool, providing valuable insights into the present employee experience within top AEC firms.  

Our Commitment to Employees 

Being recognized alongside other fantastic firms is not just a point of pride, but a heartfelt confirmation of the positive atmosphere we cultivate every day at BranchPattern. This recognition reflects our ongoing commitment to creating a warm and supportive culture that prioritizes the well-being of our incredible team. 

Since our founding in 1991, our leadership has fostered a workplace culture that values employee well-being and we consistently work to make BranchPattern a safe and welcoming place for both clients and employees alike. We are committed to analyzing industry trends, listening to the perspectives of our employees, and providing benefits that enhance their lives. Our workforce stands as our most prized asset, and we will continue to invest in their well-being long-term. 

Contribution to our retention rate of 85% are firm culture, workplace practices, employee benefits, and professional development. What do we do differently in these categories? 

Firm Culture 

BranchPattern is a building consultancy committed to Improving Life through Better Built Environments®. We live our purpose through the work we do and how we do it.  

Our core values: 

• Genuine: Build genuine relationships 
• Progressive: Find progressive solutions 
• Advocate: Advocate for people and the environment 

Workplace Practices 

• Employees choose their attire based on their daily needs, without adhering to a rigid dress code. 
• Snacks and beverages are available in each office 
• Fun and friendly environment with a daily focus on strong cultural values 
• Themed monthly socials (optional) 
• Employee rewards and recognition program that acknowledges when our people go above and beyond the call of duty. 

Employee Benefits 

• Time Off: In addition to unlimited Owner Time Off, BranchPattern provides employees with ten annual holidays including your birthday and two floating holidays.
• Insurance: BranchPattern offers a comprehensive benefits package with 100% employer-provided health coverage. We also offer major medical, dental, vision and more.
• 401(K): BranchPattern offers a 401(K) savings/retirement plan that all new employees are automatically enrolled in after 30 days of employment.
• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Continuing Education
• And more! 

Professional Development 

• 03: An 03, also known as a One-on-One, is a scheduled meeting where every employee connects with their direct manager. It serves as a designated forum for open-ended and expected discussions between employees and their managers. 
• Professional Development Plan (PDP): We work with every employee to create a customized Professional Development Plan (PDP) aligned with their growth objectives. This structured approach promotes employee development by incorporating SMART goals, enabling managers to assist individuals in recognizing their strengths and determining the most effective ways to leverage them. 
• Annual Reviews: We annually evaluate employees’ yearlong performance based on their core competencies and firm values. We consider this evaluation crucial for facilitating meaningful conversations and enhancing communication between employees and managers. 

What Do our Employees Have to Say about Working at BranchPattern?  

“When you work for a company that truly values people over profits, you can feel it. I know my contribution to our work is helping make our world better, and I see that in both the actions of our leadership team, and the projects that BranchPattern chooses to pursue.” – Caitlyn Ziegler, Corporate Services

“I am so proud to work at BranchPattern. I get to improve life through better built environments with extremely talented and passionate people every day!” – Andrea Zugelder, Project Coordinator  

“Having worked in various roles throughout the AEC industry over the last 10 years, I have seen a variety of approaches in promoting employee satisfaction and overall wellness while also maintaining a healthy bottom line.  BranchPattern supports their employees personally and professionally while implementing a successful business model that is centered around creating better built environments for everyone.” – Brian Blacka, Project Executive & LEED Volume Team Lead 

How Leadership is Shaping our Future 

“BranchPattern’s leadership team recognizes that people are the very essence of our success. Securing a ‘Best Places to Work’ award is a testament to the relentless dedication and hard work embodied by our exceptional team. Every member of #TeamBranchPattern helps contribute to a company culture that thrives on collaboration, fuels innovation, and embraces inclusivity while moving to fulfill our mission of Improving Life through Better Built Environments. The recognition of this award serves as a celebration of the collective triumphs we’ve achieved together.” – Sarah Gudeman, Principal & Building Science Practice Lead 

“We see this award not just as a recognition of our past efforts but as a motivation to reach even greater heights. Our commitment to excellence and employee satisfaction will continue to drive us forward, and we are confident that the positive momentum we’ve built will propel us to new successes.” – Rick Maniktala, Principal & Engineering Practice Lead