August 5, 2026
As demand for infrastructure projects continues to grow, so does competition for skilled workers. Competitive pay is important, but it's no longer the only factor employees consider when choosing where to build their careers.
In a recent Orlando Business Journal sponsored article, Cory Stanton, Phillips Talent Acquisition Manager, shared what today's employees are looking for in the workplace and why those priorities matter for employers hoping to attract and retain top talent.
Here are a few key takeaways.
Nobody wants to feel stuck in their job. Employees want to know there's a path forward, regardless of their role or rank.
That's why Phillips invests in career development across the organization. Employees have access to technical training, certifications, mentorship opportunities, and hands-on learning experiences that help them continue growing throughout their careers.
Whether someone pursues leadership, project management, operations, estimating, safety, or another area of the business, the goal is the same: to help employees build careers that align with their strengths and interests.
Creating those opportunities benefits the company as much as the individual. Clear pathways for growth help organizations retain talented employees, strengthen succession planning, and preserve valuable institutional knowledge.
The people doing the work every day often have the clearest perspective on how to improve it. They may spot a potential safety issue, identify a more efficient way to complete a task, or recognize an opportunity to strengthen project execution. Creating a workplace where employees feel comfortable sharing such observations benefits everyone.
Phillips encourages field employees to participate in conversations about planning, constructability, logistics, and project execution because their firsthand experience helps shape better decisions. Employees are encouraged to ask questions, offer ideas, and raise concerns throughout the life of a project.
When people know their perspectives are valued, they're more likely to think like owners instead of observers. That sense of ownership eads to better outcomes for both employees and clients.
People are more likely to build long-term careers with organizations where they feel respected, valued, and supported. Creating that kind of workplace doesn't happen by accident. It requires an intentional commitment to helping employees see themselves succeeding.
Phillips puts that philosophy into practice through leadership development programs like Pinnacle and Academy, which help employees prepare for expanded responsibility while fostering a collaborative culture that encourages continuous growth.
Creating that sense of belonging benefits everyone. Employees gain confidence to grow and lead, while organizations build stronger teams, develop future leaders, and retain the talent they've worked hard to attract.
The best workplaces don't just offer competitive pay. They invest in their people.
At Phillips, employees are encouraged to grow their skills, share their ideas, and build meaningful careers. From technical training and leadership development to a culture that values collaboration and promotes from within, Phillips is committed to creating an environment where people can succeed.
Build your future with Phillips. Explore open positions.