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called LiftCommand and is specifically designed for lift station and sewer system operators, managers, and utilities directors to track your sanitary sewer system, verify permit compliance, and plan for sustainable growth. DEVELOPING LEADERS. However, despite company growth and innovative developments, finding talent is a top
HEADQUARTERS: Cary, NC NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES: 420 YEAR FOUNDED: 1983 OFFICE LOCATIONS:
A WithersRavenel team gathering.
supervisor, the challenges they will face, and strategies to deal with them. It’s also launched cohorts in its Leadership Academy under WR University, which helps employees develop the leadership skills needed to be great leaders and people managers. HEALTHY HABITS. In addition to training, wellness is a key focus at WithersRavenel and the company was recently recognized as one of the healthiest small businesses in the state of North Carolina. In fact, it finished third place in the Triangle and Triad competitions among companies with 100-499 employees in the annual Healthiest Employers awards program. Specifically cited in the Healthiest Employers’ recognition was WithersRavenel’s unique Thrive program which offers micro-training sessions, a testament to their recognition of the diverse needs of their teams in the midst of a hectic workday. Succinct 15-minute, live sessions are conducted through video conferences and are conveniently recorded and made accessible via their SharePoint app for those unable to attend in real time. After the content delivery, they actively facilitate open discussions to promote social connections and provide a platform for participants to share ideas and recommendations related to the topic. WithersRavenel’s Thrive committee includes individuals from throughout the company who generate the program ideas. Additional company initiatives include running and walking clubs, wellness-centered events, team contests, and programs linked with its company health plan. Physical and mental health are both key components of the programming, along with financial and emotional well-being.
challenge in all areas – ranging from recruiting, retaining, and developing talent. To combat this, the company has put an outstanding HR team in place that it considers a true business partner to the practice areas and support teams. “We’re investing in our team members by providing professional and personal development opportunities, including leadership training and we have an internal development program called WR University with six pillars,” Canfield says. He says that the industry, as a whole, is still feeling the effects of the 2008 recession which led to many people leaving the business, and in turn, creating a scarcity of project managers. “The recession was a learning experience for most of us,” he says. “At the time, I was leading our land development group and our company went from around 280 employees to fewer than 100 in a year. We were not nearly disciplined enough with respect to business processes, and I learned quickly that my business acumen needed to increase to enhance our future sustainability.” As a result, this led to a goal of balancing revenue between private and public sector work and implementing business-related requirements dealing with timesheets, invoicing, AR, unbilled time, and more. “Projects are the lifeblood of our organization and we will continue to develop and train our teammates who have a desire to manage projects,” he says. “I want to develop more project managers within our organization as it provides growth opportunities and also leads to more positive client experiences.” WithersRavenel has several programs that revolve around training and professional development. The firm provides supervisors with training about what makes a great
Asheville, NC
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Cary, NC
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Charlotte, NC
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Greensboro, NC
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Pittsboro, NC
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Raleigh, NC
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Southern Pines, NC
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■ Wilmington, NC MARKETS: Public and private sector clients across North Carolina SERVICES:
Asset management
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Design and planning
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Economic development
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Environmental
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Funding and finance
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Geomatics (survey, SUE, and remote sensing)
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GIS
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Land and site development
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Stormwater
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Water and sewer utilities
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THE ZWEIG LETTER FEBRUARY 12, 2024, ISSUE 1524
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