THE FUTURE IS NOW. BY OB STAFF Working on this issue’s cover package on the Future of Work — a followup to a package of stories we ran in January 2021 — was a reminder of just how chaotic the past few years has been for workers and employers in every sector. The COVID-19 pandemic rapidly upended workplace norms. Some institutions fully embraced remote work and haven’t gone back. Others shifted to a hybrid model and have continued to work that way, where others have found that a return to office worked best for them. And many sectors — like manufacturing and retail — couldn’t shut down, instead grappling with ever-changing protocols. This issue went into production during the first weeks of President Donald Trump’s second administration, which saw a spate of executive orders — many rescinded or blocked by judges within days — and job cuts at the federal level. The impact of these cuts on Oregon’s economy — and the economy as a whole — has yet to be seen. In addition to federal changes, the private sector is undergoing rapid shifts, with many large companies canceling diversity, equity and inclusion programs. In short, it’s a strange time to be covering the economy. But some things are evergreen. The companies on this list — some appearing for the first time, while many are repeat honorees — have shown a powerful commitment to workplace best practices. The list that follows was compiled this winter based on surveys submitted late last year, completed by employees of the participating companies. Employees rate their satisfaction with their company, a factor that makes up 71% of companies’ 100 Best scores. They also rate the importance they attach to work environment, management and communication, decision-making and trust, career development and learning, and benefits and compensation. Employers also answer a questionnaire on benefits, and companies are given points for employee participation. Companies on this list offer a wide range of benefits — from paid gym memberships and free event tickets to healthy breakroom snacks or company wellness programs. But there are always common themes in survey responses from employees of great companies: They feel valued. They feel like part of a whole. They have the flexibility to live their lives. When we spoke to them four years ago, some of our story subjects’ predictions about the future of work turned out to be dead wrong — while others turned out to be on the money. While the future of work in many sectors is just as uncertain in 2025 as it was in 2021, the companies on the pages that follow know what it takes to find and keep employees who love coming to work every day. Congratulations to all the companies on this list. 42
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