Richard Rodriguez
Claire McInnis, Satori Capital
In today's competitive job market, finding a company that not only offers a good paycheck but also fosters a thriving, supportive, and enriching work environment can make all the difference in an employee's career and well-being.
Fort Worth Inc.’s Best Companies To Work For in Fort Worth is comprised of 45 companies that stand out as exemplary workplaces for employees to flourish professionally — and personally — because of philosophies that foster a positive and supportive environment.
Many infuse a sense of fun and humor, encouraging employees to tote around their personalities. Almost all it seems cultivate transparent communication at all levels of the organization.
There are also a handful that include George Washington’s birthday as a company-paid day off.
We were of the belief that George W. I’s birthday was so 20th century.
It’s not so.
What Makes a Healthy Workplace Culture?
What does it take to make our annual honor roll, which the magazine began producing annually in 2016? First, this contest is run and judged independently of the magazine’s ownership and staff by the Workforce Research Group, a Humble, Texas, research firm that’s behind some 24 Best Places to Work programs across North America and drills deep daily on what engages people in the workplace.
Companies and other organizations that enter our contest submit answers to Workforce on questions ranging from employee benefits to work from home and vacation policies, communication from the top, wellness initiatives, opportunities for advancement, training and mentorship, diversity, and fun stuff like office happy hours and outings to a sporting event, including your World Champion Texas Rangers. (It’s always baseball time in Texas.)
Entering companies also agree to allow their employees to be surveyed anonymously by the Workforce Research Group to really explore how they perceive their employer.
Workforce analyzes this information and produces our annual Best Companies to Work For in Fort Worth. Workforce ranked employers in the small, medium, and large company categories, with large companies having 250 employees or more.
It is also worth noting that the magazine’s ownership and staff have no say in who wins this contest and how employers rank. The 2024 issue of the magazine and Workforce Research Group’s rankings were released Aug. 15 at a luncheon at River Ranch Stockyards.
SMALL (15-49 EMPLOYEES)
1. Satori Capital
What they do: Finance
Employees: 35
If there is a moral to this story, it’s that pancakes, doughnuts, and compliments will take you to the very top. Satori, whose investment strategy includes the embrace of the principles of conscious capitalism, is the top finisher among small companies.
The firm’s “Surprise and Delight” moments certainly couldn’t have hurt.
A number of times each month, the firm’s management team surprises team members with fun celebrations to commemorate National Pancake Day, National Doughnut Day, and National Compliment Day, among the rest.
Satori Capital’s mission is to create, fund, and inspire businesses that elevate humanity. That, naturally, includes its “outstanding team members.”
“We consider it our responsibility to be stewards of our team members’ careers and their well-being. After all, our team members devote their time, energy, and talent to the work we do together. In return, we strive to ensure they work in a caring, supportive, and positive environment, and that they feel as special and valued as they are."
A doughnut and recognition that, “Hey, eat that thing; you’ve got plenty of room for it” never hurt.
2. Curnutt & Hafer
What they do: Legal
Employees: 21
Kelly Curnutt and Doug Hafer founded the firm in 2000, vowing to change the way firms do business, including an intentionality about a positive company culture.
“In the words of an attorney who recently joined our firm this year, ‘My wife is glad to see me happy again. I’ve never worked at a place like this. It's like family.’”
“First Fridays” are staff trainings over lunch. “Second Fridays” are for attorney mentoring and lunch and learns. One partner grilled burgers at his house for an alfresco training on deposition strategies. Those are all very good Fridays.
The firm makes a 3% contribution to employees’ 401(k) regardless of whether the employee also contributes.
That really is free money.
3. Energy Domain
What they do: Business Services
Employees: 17
At Energy Domain, Fridays are for unplugging. Management gives employees off most Fridays.
“Most of our employees will check emails or Slack throughout the day but are not required or expected to respond to any noncrucial requests.”
Every other Friday, however, is pickleball followed by lunch. All are invited to play or spectate — maybe speculate?
“We believe that if a team enjoys and cares for the people they work with, are given the tools and empowerment needed to do their job, and are working toward a defined common goal, they will always be successful,” management says. “Our biggest strength is our people, so we work hard to provide each employee with the flexibility they need to be present in all areas of their life.”
4. North Texas Community Foundation
What they do: Nonprofit
Employees: 20
The North Texas Community Foundation works on the concept that its employees are not merely colleagues, “but allies united by a shared passion for making a difference in the community we serve.”
It also casts a wide net in recruiting new allies, posting open positions with the Fort Worth Metropolitan Black Chamber of Commerce and the Fort Worth Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.
“We work with our community partners for help in identifying talented and diverse candidates,” officials say.
NTCF was founded in 1981 with the mission to drive meaningful change through charitable investment. It serves a network of more than 300 donors and makes grants to nearly 1,200 nonprofits annually.
5. Wier & Associates
What they do: Engineering
Employees: 41
Wier & Associates, a firm that provides civil engineering, land surveying, and land planning-related services, got creative for engineering week this year.
The company, which celebrated its 45th anniversary last year, broke into teams to build cars out of office supplies. Prizes were handed out for creativity and distance traveled.
Who knew a stapler had so many dimensions?
"We believe our company is the best place to work because our company produces great work while having a family culture,” management says. “Our leadership has an open-door policy and encourages employees to come in anytime about personal or professional issues they may have. No question is off the table — we want everyone to feel heard and valued.
6. REEDER Construction
What they do: Construction
Employees: 42
Since 1994, REEDER Construction has been involved in winning friends and influencing people.
For instance, the company throws a potluck lunch in which employees bring their favorite childhood dish.
It set a record for most animal chicken nuggets at one potluck. (I made that part up.)
Workforce development and diversity are key components to REEDER’s model.
Employees participate in two leadership training courses. One is Dale Carnegie, a one-time, eight-week course designed to improve leadership skills focusing on human relations. The second is the quarterly leadership program called Human Dynamics.
7. FPI Builders
What they do: Construction
Employees: 17
Staff development remains the No. 1 priority at FPI Builders because it’s good for people and good for business.
“Personal integrity is key to our mission and vision,” says Kevin Drake, CEO. “Clients and architects expect it, and we demand it of ourselves.”
FPI Builders aims to create a workplace where employees can learn, improve, and feel valued, fostering a positive atmosphere in an industry known for poor work environments.
"We have a survey we give every employee when they start to better understand their interests. For their birthdays, we will put together a personalized gift based on their interests, and one of the owners will deliver it to them."
8. Trinity REIS
What they do: Real Estate/Renting/Leasing
Employees: 15
Headquartered in the Near Southside, Trinity Real Estate Investment Services, founded in 2017, is a commercial real estate brokerage firm, specializing in the investment sales of single-tenant, net lease properties nationwide.
"Since Day 1, our focus has been on building a company that we can be proud of, with a strong reputation and a commitment to attracting top talent,” says CEO Kyle McCollum.
That includes tools to offer the team greater flexibility to work from home.
They also like to par-taay.
The company throws several reoccurring events every year, including a charity golf tournament benefiting Folds of Honor, Halloween, Oktoberfest, table tennis tournaments, and crawfish boils.
“We have a great team that likes to have fun.”
9. Joe Hall Roofing and Contracting
What they do: Construction
Employees: 20
Joe Hall Roofing and Contracting, in business since 1989, has a strategy on recruiting and retaining Generation Z employees.
It’s a culture of fun, innovation, and flexibility.
“We leverage technology and encourage the input of our Generation Z employees in refining our workflows and systems,” says CEO Tina Hall, who along with husband Brett Hall co-own the business. “This inclusivity fosters a sense of ownership and autonomy, allowing them to work in ways that best suit their individual styles.”
The company’s social media presence, she says, “showcases the lively, engaging side of our workplace, serving as a magnet for potential recruits from Generation Z.”
10. Ronald McDonald House of Fort Worth
What they do: Nonprofit
Employees: 26
Since 1981, the Ronald McDonald House of Fort Worth has loaned its expertise and compassion to families with seriously ill or injured children.
That family-centered mindset in its mission extends to employees.
“We care for each other in a professional, welcoming, and open way,” says Jennifer Johns, CEO. “But more than that, the organization is committed to providing employees with a safe and inclusive environment through competitive pay, generous benefits, and professional development.”
The nonprofit offers a generous paid time off policy to “encompass what would generally be given as employer-paid holidays.” Staff members receive 18 days of paid time off per year after 90 days, pro-rated for the first year of employment.
11. Varghese Summersett
What they do: Legal
Employees: 41
Taylor Swift concert tickets? It’s no wonder Varghese Summersett is a repeat winner from 2023.
Providing concert tickets to team members is one of the fun things one of the fastest-growing law firms does. That has included Ms. Swift, Tyler Childers, and Beyonce. Yeah, boy.
The firm also took employees out to spray the ball around Topgolf to celebrate a month of “wins and growth.”
Varghese Summersett utilizes a number of practices that it says sets it apart, including rewarding employees with items or experiences they have said wanted to do through a survey.
On “Workshop Wednesday,” team members join for a lunch-and-learn session where partners present timely and relevant information."
12. M2G Ventures
What they do: Real Estate/Renting/Leasing
Employees: 20
M2G Ventures, a female-founded, certified women-owned commercial real estate firm, provides more than 11 employer-paid holidays, including Washington’s birthday, aka Presidents Day.
Acknowledging Washington’s birthday is a helluva thing in the 21st century, by George.
The firm offers 20 days of paid time off in the first year.
M2G recently implemented a new short-term incentive program that recognizes employees for meeting “stretch goals.” Employees are financially rewarded for these achievements, outside of standard bonus structure.
The company’s Mental Health Initiative Donor Soiree is the firm’s 501(c)(3) fundraising event. Team members are encouraged to attend for a night of education, fine dining, live art experiences, and an auction.
13. Semmelmann Interiors
What they do: Interior
Employees: 26
Semmelmann Interiors, founded in 2019, has very quickly become a top player in the industry. That status has allowed it to recruit and retain talent, particularly Gen Z.
"We invest heavily in high-level marketing initiatives, ensuring our brand stands out and attracts top talent,” says Susan Semmelmann, owner, president, and CEO. “By consistently demonstrating our industry leadership and commitment to employee development, we create an environment where talent feels valued, engaged, and motivated to stay and grow with us."
The company’s formal diversity and inclusion training incudes:
Implicit Bias Training: Addressing unconscious biases to promote fair treatment and decision-making.
Cultural Competency Workshops: Fostering understanding and respect for different cultural perspectives within the workplace.
14. HF Custom Solutions
What they do: Advertising/Marketing/PR
Employees: 19
HF Custom Solutions is a full-service promotional product company, offering a comprehensive suite of services, including design, sourcing, customization, packaging, and shipping, all aimed at elevating one’s branded apparel, merchandise, and logoed items.
The company, it says, “makes great ideas happen.”
Team members also might make great — or not — renditions of “Love Will Keep Us Together.”
That’s right, Captain and Toni Tennille, karaoke is part of the office’s “spontaneous shenanigans.”
HF Custom Solutions recognizes employee achievements with the weekly Brady Avenue Award and the Bluebonnet Circle Award, presented each month to the team member who has “stacked good days on top of good weeks for a month prior while living our core values.”
15. PSK LLP
What they do: Accounting
Employees: 44
Established in 1964, PSK is a full-service accounting firm based in Arlington and serving more than 20 states.
“The leadership at PSK is intentional about developing relationships within the team and with clients.”
PSK encourages work-life balance, maintains a family-like and collaborative environment, promotes teamwork, provides the tools for employees to advance and fosters open communication.
Half of the employee base has been with the firm for five years or longer with almost 30% working at PSK for more than 10 years.
“We are proud of our 60-year history and know our team members will keep us as a viable, vibrant place to work."
16. Valor
What they do: Finance
Employees: 38
Since its founding in 2018, company executives at Valor have remained unwavering in their commitment to employees’ health and well-being.
And despite doubling its employee count year over year, the company has made significant achievements in increasing support for team members and earning recognition for its accomplishments.
Valor has become a regular on best-companies-to-work-for lists, including finishing at the very top in this category last year.
Valor utilizes the Culture Index™ to bring in talent without regard to age, race, gender, etc.
Valor’s talent base is more than 50% female overall, with over 40% of executive leadership being female. Almost 50% of staff is under 40. Valor’s employees have come from varying industry backgrounds to ensure no person fits a “mold.”
17. Cancer Care Services
What they do: Nonprofit
Employees: 38
The local nonprofit, operating since 1946, says it is small and nimble enough to create a work culture that meets the needs of the team.
“As needs arise, we are flexible enough to make positive adjustments,” says Melanie Wilson, CEO. “We also listen to our team.”
As an example, the organization formerly did not cover any part of employees' insurance for dependents. However, team members shared their concerns about the burden of taking on the full cost of employee-plus-family premiums. The organization adjusted, now covering 65% of those premiums, which “was very well-received by our team.”
“We continue to evolve as our workforce changes, and we are committed to cultivating a safe space for all, per our inclusiveness statement."
18. McDonald Sanders
What they do: Legal
Employees: 34
McDonald Sanders, founded in 1951, is one of the oldest law firms in Fort Worth with a long history of advising clients instrumental in the development of Fort Worth, Tarrant County, and North Texas.
"McDonald Sanders employs a comprehensive strategy to recruit and retain a diverse workforce,” the firm’s management says. “This involves hosting open recruiting events and recruiting through the Sunbelt, which is a diversity recruiting program. We are also actively supporting various organizations and maintaining memberships in esteemed entities like the Fort Worth Hispanic Chamber of Commerce."
McDonald Sanders’ legacy is continued not only through its legal work but also through its involvement and support of local causes.
To that end, the firm encourages team members to participate in community service during normal business hours without losing pay or using vacation time.
The firm also provides opportunities for employees to engage with local health or human service initiatives. The firm also donates to “various charities that are important to our employees.”
19. Fort Construction
What they do: Construction
Employees: 25
The founding of Fort Construction in 2005 is no fish tale.
Founder Scott Price, a Fort Worth Inc. Entrepreneur of Excellence winner in 2022, moved to Fort Worth for a job opportunity that, as he says, “turned out badly.”
He put a bet on himself.
Fort Construction maintains a high employee retention rate with a workplace culture that encourages and cultivates professional growth, comradery, and a healthy work-life balance and by putting team members’ well-being first.
And Fort Construction team members indeed do some fishin’.
Each spring, the company hosts a guided fishing trip at Lake Texoma for employees, their families, clients, and subcontractors. So, naturally, in the fall, they have a fish fry with what they pulled in at Texoma.
MEDIUM (50-249 EMPLOYEES)
Richard Rodriguez
Roderick Thomas, Post L Group
1. Post L Group Construction
What they do: Construction
Employees: 50
Roderick Thomas came into our office and handed me a sheet of paper, outlining three primary reasons Post L Group Construction is an attractive place to build a career, starting with a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Secondly, the company provides “clear paths” for career advancement, professional development, and membership opportunities.
Lastly, Post L Group has cultivated and nurtured a strong company culture that is supportive and inclusive and where team members feel valued and respected.
“We use our work to do more than build buildings,” says Monica deLaGarza, vice president of marketing and strategy. “We see each project as an opportunity to work, earn a living, and grow community.”
Post L, she says, has a passion for construction and for helping people reentering the workforce, such as military veterans, women returning to work, second-chance post-incarceration, and opportunities for youth in need of a career path.
The company’s apprenticeship program pairs these new construction employees with coaches and resources such as training, tools, and certifications.
“We also use our network to connect these employees with other trade contractors after their first year if the person has an interest in a career in plumbing, electrical, concrete, etc."
2. Wick Phillips
What they do: Legal
Employees: 118
Wick Phillips jokes — I think — that, yes, even a law firm can be a great place to work.
"It may be somewhat unbelievable to hear that a law firm is a great place to work, but it is true,” the firm’s leadership says. “At least if we're talking about Wick Phillips.”
The firm is celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2024
Leadership says that with core values centered around service, the strong level of respect is evident in the daily operations and in the people at all levels. The firm makes a conscious effort to integrate and foster development for employees through mentorship, connection, collaboration, women's initiatives, and activities.
“Wick Phillips is a fun and modern environment where people genuinely like each other and enjoy working together toward a common goal of service — to clients, to the firm, and to each other."
3. Imperial Construction
What they do: Construction
Employees: 50
Imperial Construction, founded in 2000 and based in Weatherford, is a general contractor that builds commercial and institutional buildings in Texas, much of those in Fort Worth-Dallas.
Imperial Construction has been successful, in part because of the hands-on engagement of ownership.
“Employees appreciate the opportunity to work alongside the owners,” the company says. “The firm's culture is tight-knit, with many long-term employees that have helped grow the company.”
Imperial builds commercial buildings, such as offices, industrial buildings, large retail and hospitality developments, and health care facilities; a wide range of education facilities for K-12 schools and higher education institutions; government facilities for municipalities, state entities, and the federal government."
Company events include Bulls Night Out for staff and family with a tailgate party with food and drinks, and night at rodeo grounds.
The Imperial ladies enjoy pedicures and lunch in Clearfork. A morning of pedicures and mimosas concludes with lunch and the afternoon off.
4. Steele & Freeman Inc.
What they do: Construction
Employees: 88
The Can-Do Crew.
The company’s culture and the comradery fostered by the Can-Do Crew are at “the heart of what our employees love about working for Steele & Freeman.”
“We organically have the teamwork mindset that other companies strive to achieve,” says executive management. “We are proud of our 23 Fundamentals and believe they convey what is truly unique about us as a team and the way we work. Steele & Freeman employees view each other as family, and that treatment extends to our employees’ families.”
Flexible hours are offered to all employees to guarantee that the company’s core fundamental of putting family first can always be met. Other benefits include 100% employee health coverage and a 401(k) match up to 6%.
Social events, like the annual fishing retreat and monthly company poker tournament, encourage team bonding.
That end-of-year bonus never hurt.
5. United Way of Tarrant County
What they do: Nonprofit
Employees: 71
The United Way of Tarrant County’s culture of caring and support for its community extends to its team members.
“Whether through celebrating successes, giving employees opportunities to engage with each other inside and outside of the workplace, or providing resources for them to grow professionally and personally, our organization takes a holistic approach to serving our staff members,” representatives of the organization say.
“We are deliberate about inclusion and ensuring employees contribute their full selves to work because we recognize how our differences make our workforce stronger. Our policies and practices aren’t what make us a great company to work for — it’s our people.”
The nonprofit also allows full-time employees up to eight hours each quarter — four days a year — to volunteer.
That’s “walking the talk.”
“We try to instill fun in the workplace, but our employees bring it to life with their engagement and passion."
6. Baker Firm — Fidelity National Title
What they do: Insurance
Employees: 63
The Baker Firm has planned trips for employees to Mexico; Nashville; Biloxi, Mississippi; and, most recently, Possum Kingdom.
The objective: team building and cultivating mutual respect among the team.
"We work hard to create an environment that our employees can be proud of,” says Nikki Jackson, senior vice president/escrow officer of Baker Firm. “We want each employee to feel like they are a part of something that works toward the greater good for their personal development in their career, our customers, and our community.”
The Baker Firm recognizes the importance of work-life balance, opportunity for advancement, and enjoying the place where you work.
“We spend a lot of time together, and it is important to us to have a space that you can enjoy.”
The firm recognizes through its annual awards night. Top producers, milestones in the company, and superlative awards for employees who go the extra mile are acknowledged and celebrated. There is also semi-annual profit sharing, as well as employee appreciation events, bonuses, gift cards, and happy hours.
7. Baird, Hampton & Brown Inc.
What they do: Engineering
Employees: 132
Founded in 1992, Baird, Hampton & Brown has been consistently named “Best Place for Working Parents” and “Best Firms to Work For.”
“We pride ourselves on fostering an environment where every team member thrives,” says Trace Strevey, president. “Our unique benefits, like company-paid health care, generous parental leave, and flexible schedules, reflect our commitment to employee well-being, but what truly sets us apart is our unwavering support for personal and professional growth.”
That includes licensure reimbursement, mentorship programs, and professional memberships. “We invest in our employees' success. At BHB, you're not just an employee, you're part of a supportive community dedicated to your growth and fulfillment.”
The firm’s recruiting and retention committee works to ensure a diverse pool of applicants. It regularly evaluates schools the firm recruits from.
“Every year, we aim to select a new or different school in order to attempt to reach a different audience.”
Pi Day and Star Wars Day are intermixed with Hawaiian Shirt Day to ensure the firm isn’t all work and no play.
8. CornerStone Staffing
What they do: Staffing
Employees: 72
CornerStone Staffing’s Fort Worth office opened in 1991. It has grown into one of the company’s most successful, management says.
“CornerStone Staffing is a great place to work because we've made our employees a priority. We provide opportunities for employees to express themselves through committees, volunteer opportunities, and anonymous surveys.”
Achievement incentives include quarterly and annual bonuses and incentive trips for top performers.
CornerStone organizes quarterly team-building activities in which employees from different branches assemble to play pickleball, ride go-carts, and hit golf balls on the driving range.
This helps encourage teamwork with other branches, the company says.
“We pull together and support each other through tough times. We look to our core values of Faith, Compassion, Integrity and Self-Discipline in all that we do.”
9. The Blum Firm
What they do: Legal
Employees: 66
Founded in 1980, The Blum Firm is a leader in estate and tax planning, known for providing creative, customized estate planning solutions to high-net-worth clients across the country.
“We owe it all to the hard work, dedication, and expertise of our team,” says Marvin Blum, founder and managing partner. “We believe in investing in our people and providing opportunities for growth and advancement.”
The firm fosters a culture of collaboration and teamwork. All are encouraged to contribute their ideas and expertise. It also emphasizes a healthy work-life balance, including offering work-from-home arrangements.
The firm, the founder says, offers competitive salaries and benefits packages, including health, dental, and vision insurance, a 401(k)-retirement plan, and paid time off.
The firm has also implemented Paycor HRIS technology in recruitment processes.
“We highlight meaningful work and purpose, providing continuous learning and development opportunities. We have found these initiatives are attractive to Gen Z and are also welcomed by individuals in other generational groups"
10. Lena Pope
What they do: Nonprofit
Employees: 224
Lena Pope, the legendary Fort Worth nonprofit at work for young people for more than 90 years, has become self-aware through studies and reviews such as these.
"Our leadership teams compare results to previous years to look for trends and progress,” says Cathy Sheffield, chief advancement officer. “We compare with similar organizations to examine how we perform in our industry. We share global survey results agency-wide and refine results to include department specific findings. We created groups across all departments tasked with addressing areas of improvement identified in our last survey.”
For several years running, Lena Pope has been selected a “best place for working parents.”
The mission, of course, is a big part of the appeal to team members.
Since 1930, Lena Pope has lived its mission to equip children, families, caregivers, and community with a strong foundation through counseling, education, and behavior interventions.
“I choose to work here because I absolutely love everything we do,” says one employee. “The dedication to the community, the children and the families, their success and progress; it’s simply amazing.”
11. Byrne Construction Services
What they do: Construction
Employees: 100
Byrne is a 100-year-old, family-owned commercial construction company based in Fort Worth, specializing in municipal, commercial office, higher education, aviation, and historic renovation projects.
The company has strong employee retention, fostered by Byrne Family Days, BBQ competitions, golf tournaments, clay shoots, and professional development resources.
Its mantra “People Build Buildings” drives “our focus on employee well-being, fostering a family atmosphere that enables individual growth and overall satisfaction and pride in their work and in Byrne."
Byrne is also the largest Hispanic-owned contractor in Fort Worth. As such, diversity is at the core of workforce values.
“We prioritize hiring and providing opportunities for minorities while actively increasing women representation across all roles, not just in the home office but also on-site,” says Tracey Hart, director of human resources. “We take pride in seeing women and minorities represented at every level within Byrne, fostering an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive.”
And then, of course, no one should ever neglect to mention the company’s gathering and happy hour space — the Byrne Biergarten.
12. Muckleroy & Falls
What they do: Construction
Employees: 63
I’m writing this with visions of Chuck Barris — who remembers Chuck Barris? — dancing in my head.
On the “Gong Show,” if a judge found an act particularly bad or not entertaining, they could hit a large gong to end the performance.
At Muckleroy & Falls, it’s completely different.
“We have a giant gong we ring in the office every time we win a new project,” says Taylor Hale, president of the company.
So, the gong is merely the beginning of the company’s next big thing among big things it constructs on the commercial landscape.
"Muckleroy & Falls values the hard work and dedication of its team members and recognizes their efforts by rewarding them with team bonding events, department dinners and outings, happy hours, annual bonuses, and more,” says Hale.
The company does important things by committee.
The Culture Committee, with an elected representative from each department, plans those fun events.
The Benefits Committee analyzes benefits packages and brainstorms ideas for improvement. It engages with the Strategic Planning Committee to evaluate and propose new benefits.
13. Sproles Woodard LLP
What they do: Accounting
Employees: 50
The Sproles survey responses reflected a firm led by partners who demonstrate a “genuine willingness” to listen to team members and consistently prioritize employee well-being over personal interests.
“Our office culture is characterized by a strong sense of teamwork, where collaboration thrives, and individuals support one another toward shared objectives,” says Dalio Losch, tax manager. Reflecting on my journey over the past six years, I have witnessed a positive growth that speaks volumes about the nurturing environment Sproles fosters."
Sproles has a legacy, in practice since 1933.
The firm offers tuition reimbursement for advanced or post-graduate work, business education workshops or conferences, professional certifications, and other work-related courses.
"Generally speaking, employees contribute less than $50 per month from their paycheck to cover medical, dental, vision, and insurance benefits,” excluding, of course, dependent add-ons.
Fun firm outings include Top Golf, which serves as a means to unwind and recharge, particularly after busy seasons. Pro sports events are regular things, and “partners express their appreciation by treating the entire staff to nice lunches on a regular basis.”
LARGE (250-PLUS U.S. EMPLOYEES)
Richard Rodriguez
Scot Bennett, The Beck Group
1. The Beck Group
What they do: Construction
Employees: 860 (65 in Fort Worth)
The Beck Group was founded in 1912 on a unique business model, the company says, one that integrates architecture, construction, and sustainability “to transform how our clients design and build.”
“The Beck Group has led the industry by example,” the company says. “We foster a culture of inclusivity and innovation. We want everyone to be comfortable being authentic because better processes and outcomes result from working together.”
The company’s annual LAW Awards recognizes teams who excel in nine areas, including community, leadership, and safety. The company also hosts safety appreciation lunches for project teams that includes giveaways of include gift cards, YETIs, and Beck swag, among other things.
“We prioritize the safety of our people, partners, vendors, and clients through training, safety protocols, and communication to show our commitment. Our work matters because we do more than build buildings — we build communities and people too."
2. Higginbotham
What they do: Insurance
Employees: 3,153 (550 in Fort Worth)
Higginbotham, a privately held insurance, financial, and HR services firm that ranks among the top independent insurance brokers in the nation, is fast growing.
“We have a multigenerational, diverse workforce of thousands of employees in offices coast to coast, and we’re constantly growing,” the company says. “We’re a people-first company that’s family to our employees, accountable to our clients, teammates to our carriers, and generous to our communities.”
Higginbotham, an employee-owned company, says it is committed to not only recognizing but valuing employee differences in creating an environment in which every individual’s unique strengths and abilities are developed and valued.
“We also believe that if our employees mirror the diverse makeup of our communities and customers, we will be able to better understand, and more effectively, respond to market changes.”
3. Weaver
What they do: Accounting
Employees: 1,356 (139 in Fort Worth)
Weaver leadership says it is invested in supporting not just the professional growth of team members but also in their ability to lead balanced lives.
“At Weaver, our people are the foundation of everything we do and are our formula for success,” the firm says. “We lean on each other as members of the Weaver family to help each other succeed at work and in life.”
As a result of feedback from annual surveys, Weaver says it has implemented two companywide virtual weeks, added four recharge paid days off — that is, paid days off to provide opportunity to rest, relieve stress, prioritize mental health — and added new holiday time off, increased PTO to start at 20 days, among other things.
4. USI Insurance Services
What they do: Insurance
Employees: 8,571 (35 in Fort Worth)
Founded in 1994, USI Insurance Services provides “a culture that is safe, respectful, fun, and professional.”
“Our office is somewhere you can look forward to coming into work because your friends are there looking forward to working with, laughing with, and creating solutions with you,” the company says. “We allow flex time for working around personal family needs and have excellent benefit offerings."
The company says it strives to be one of employees who are representative of our “prospects, clients, and communities” by upholding a professional environment that is inclusive and seeks out diversity of thought and background.
5. HUB International
What they do: Insurance
Employees: 602 (95 in Fort Worth)
HUB International Fort Worth is carrying on the legacies begun by William Rigg and most recently Gus Bates.
“HUB Fort Worth’s core values include a Servant’s Heart, Team Culture, and Trustworthiness, founded on the principal of ‘Don’t tell me how much you know, just show me how much you care.’”
That culture is one of “bringing people together often,” internally and externally, and having found a balance that works well between hybrid work and consistent weekly in-person fellowship.
“Leadership asks questions often, listens, and works together to tackle opportunities and speed bumps together,” the firm’s leaders say.
The firm has launched several courses in partnership with Blue Ocean Brain, a certified diversity supplier, to roll out learning modules to drive diversity, equity, inclusion, and community awareness and conversations.
6. Crossland Construction Company
What they do: Construction
Employees: 1,769 (40 in Fort Worth)
Crossland is a family-founded business whose growth, company officials say, hasn’t compromised its hometown family feel.
“Crossland isn’t just a workplace. It’s a community where lifelong friendships are formed. We're firm believers that the right culture naturally produces committed and happy employees who, in return, will deliver outstanding service and create satisfied clients and partners along the way."
For team members celebrating milestone anniversaries with the company, the company hosts a formal dinner and recognition program. The company pays for the hotel room, meal, and open bar.
The employees are recognized individually by company leadership and presented with a certificate and gifts. Additionally, new parents get a year’s supply of diapers and other gifts.
7. CLA
What they do: Accounting
Employees: 7,856 (40 in Fort Worth)
People and communities are the core of CLA’s culture and purpose, the 81-year-old firm says.
“Many qualities make CLA a great place to work,” the firm says.
Those include a culture of inclusion, belonging, and acceptance, with an emphasis on building relationships. The firm also says it listens with “empathy and is committed to action. Continual enhancements to the firm’s wellness opportunities based on the feedback receive team members is one example.
"We believe the best way to serve our clients and communities is to support our people in building their ‘inspired careers,’” the firm says. “An inspired career is distinctly personal, made up of a unique blend of experiences, strengths, and choices.”
8. First Financial Bank
What they do: Banking
Employees: 362 (28 in Fort Worth)
First Financial Bank, officials there say, encourages transparent communication, which manifests itself through team meetings, and one-on-one check-ins with team members.
The bank also streamlines processes, designed to remove barriers and empower employees to do their best work.
“Employee and leadership training is offered to foster a culture of respect, inclusivity, and collaboration where diversity is respected and supported,” bank officials say.
Team member achievement is recognized in three ways. One is the “WOW” card, on-the-spot recognition that can be given to any team member from another team member.
The Shining Star Award is presented annually within each region. The awarded team member earns an incentive and is invited to attend a leadership meeting in Abilene.
9. ID Technology LLC
What they do: Manufacturing
Employees: 525 (97 in Fort Worth)
ID Technology manufactures and integrates industry-leading solutions for labeling automation, coding, and marking for the food, beverage, pharmaceutical, personal care, household, and industrial goods industries.
“ID Technology is committed to being responsible, being honest, keeping employees safe, and helping employees grow,” the company says. “Our employees are challenged and rewarded. They make friends and have fun, while positively impacting our customers' operational performance and efficiency every day.”
Gen Z, ID Technology is looking for you.
The company actively engages with the Fort Worth school district and local college to attract young talent. Recruitment efforts focus on offering opportunities for off-shift roles and remote work.
10. Burns & McDonnell
What they do: Engineering
Employees: 14,500 (213 in Fort Worth)
Burns & McDonnell returns for its seeming perennial appearance on Best Companies to Work For.
In total, Burns & McDonnell brings together a team of more than 14,500 consultants, engineers, architects, construction and craft professionals, and more to design and build critical infrastructure.
Worldwide, the company is made up of 75 offices.
The company is 100% employee owned.
On the first working day in April, the company celebrate its founders and the entrepreneurial precedent they set in 1898. It includes lunch served by officers and a silent auction benefiting the company’s annual charity.
Other events throughout the year include a company picnic, employee meet-and-greets, potlucks, a holiday party, college game day apparel days, team-building activities, and more.
11. LJA Engineering
What they do: Engineering
Employees: 1,979 (57 in Fort Worth)
Another employee-owned firm, LJA Engineering, founded in 1972, not only attracts the best and brightest, but “we continuously work to engage and retain our employee-owners so that they grow with the company.”
Young professionals and middle managers at LJA have direct access to professional development courses to help them succeed through growing their communication, team-building, and problem-solving skills.
Companywide events mark success.
Those include a summer picnic at the Fort Worth Zoo for all employees and their families; the “Piece of the Pie” event that celebrates LJA’s stock price performance; employee birthday cookie celebrations — sign me up — and the week off during the holidays are others.
12. Southside Bank
What they do: Finance
Employees: 831 (177 in Fort Worth)
Southside is so committed to employee culture, it even has a hashtag: #InThisTogether."
“We deeply believe that our team members are our greatest asset. Just as we prioritize exceptional service for our valued customers, we are committed to fostering a supportive and enriching environment for our personnel.
“One of our goals within the walls of Southside is to develop a work culture where every team member feels valued, empowered, and motivated to contribute their best.”
The bank’s success, after all, is derived not only from its innovative products and services, but also the passion, dedication, and resilience of team members.
13. Apex Capital Corp.
What they do: Finance
Employees: 378 (333 in Fort Worth)
Apex Capital Corp. officials in Fort Worth proclaim most proudly that it is the best place to work in Fort Worth.
“We provide rich benefits, world-class wellness, training and development opportunities, and foster an environment of transparency, connectedness, learning, innovation, and fun,” says Chris Bozek, company president. “We believe in doing the right thing. We go about our work in a positive and optimistic way, believing we can get the results we want and have fun while doing it.
Workforce development initiatives include internal and external training and development programs; company-sponsored external training and certifications; mentorship programs; and career pathing and coaching programs.
The benefits package includes no co-pays on office visits, very low deductibles, and no cost on generic prescriptions.