As we continue to grow in size and service lines, it’s crucial to remain focused on Putting People First. Creating workplaces where employees not only feel safe and secure but also appreciated and connected can be difficult to achieve. We believe we do just that, and our New Orleans office recently proved it.
PUTTING OUR EMPLOYEES FIRST
In June, the GIS New Orleans office was recognized as one of the top workplaces in the Greater New Orleans Area. Awards are based on employee feedback about the company’s culture, growth opportunities and commitment to local communities. This award is an exceptional honor, given the number of industries and opportunities available to our New Orleans staff.
“Our team knows we look out for and care about each other,” said Andrew Bruzdzinski, Chief of Execution Services and New Orleans office tenant. “We want to make sure everyone has what they need to be their best, which I think everyone understands and appreciates.”
The New Orleans office opened in 2020, amidst COVID quarantines and a push for continued telework. While some may have experienced reluctance to return to an office, the New Orleans GIS staff enjoyed being in their new location while retaining the ability to work from home when it suited their work/life balance.
“You know you have a good environment when people want to be there despite a pandemic,” said Bruzdzinski.
PROVIDING ADDITIONAL SUPPORT
Not only does GIS create a healthy work environment, as demonstrated in New Orleans, it also holistically tends to employees through career development, mental health, and community care. At all locations, GIS employees come together to pull through difficult times.
“We are a sizable company, yet we maintain a small, intimate family atmosphere,” said Mark Pregeant II, GIS CEO. “In every GIS location, we want to make sure everyone feels compelled to lift up those around them, and we all feel supported throughout each work day.”
FAMILY-LIKE CULTURE
Through the GIS Helping Hands Foundation, a 501c3 organization, GIS employees can contribute funds to help coworkers through financial burdens, such as recovering from hurricanes, medical issues, and personal hardships. GIS employees also have opportunities to volunteer their time to directly give back to local causes they care about. GIS strives to be a good neighbor and environmental steward in every community.
Adam Toups, Vice President of Construction Management, knows his New Orleans team agrees. “There’s definitely a sense of family here. It’s heartening to see so many relationships that developed within this company.”
As Mark Pregeant II emphasizes, GIS values the commitment that employees have towards the company and the many years that countless team members have dedicated:
“We pride ourselves on being capable and trusted. Not just with our customers, but with each other. And you can see that in our team. Some of our people have been with us for decades – they choose to hang their hat with GIS. I truly value the collective commitment we show to each other.”
