The Gerald R. Ford International Airport was named one of the 2021 Best and Brightest Companies to Work For in West Michigan.
The award recognizes organizations that have thoughtful and innovative approaches to human resources. An independent research firm evaluates entries based on a variety of categories, including employee enrichment and retention, education and development, compensation and benefits, recruitment, communication, selection and orientation, among others.
“As the gateway to West Michigan, we have been very intentional in bringing together a team who exemplifies the best of what our region has to offer,” said Maureen Lynch, human resources director for the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority. “Our culture attracts hardworking, innovative and passionate individuals who care about our community.
“One of the values ingrained in our core is our guest experience – our team goes beyond that and extends the same level of service to their fellow team members. We’re honored to be recognized by Best and Brightest as a top employer in the region because it’s truly a testament to the hardworking people who make up the Ford Airport.”
Best and Brightest entries this past year also focused on organizational leadership in combating the COVID-19 pandemic. As an essential service, it was impossible for Ford Airport to shut down, often providing services to traveling health professionals and other first responders. Through its Fly Safe. Fly Ford. perspective, the Ford Airport took a number of steps to ensure its team was as safe as possible, including extensive cleaning, having its business team work from home and holding virtual monthly meetings to share updates.
In addition to mandatory mask covering, physical distancing and enhanced sanitation protocols, the Ford Airport installed protective guards, increased signage promoting best practices and offered COVID-19 testing to enhance the safety and experience of its guests. The Ford Airport team worked around the clock to ensure the extra measures were followed.
Companies included on this year’s list will be honored on July 20 during a virtual program, with the winning companies also competing for 13 elite awards in each category. A winner that has excelled in all categories will be honored with a “Best of the Best Overall” award. The elite award winners will be revealed during the digital presentation.
