University of Calgary named one of Alberta’s top employers

For the sixth year in a row, the University of Calgary has been named as one of Alberta’s Top Employers. The annual ranking recognizes employers across the province that are leading in their respective industries in offering “exceptional places to work.”  

The judges of the annual competition “compare employers to other organizations in their field to determine which offer the most progressive and forward-thinking programs.” The competition is open to organizations large and small in both the public and private sector. The judges examine an employer’s physical workplace, atmosphere, health, financial and family benefits, time off, employee communications, performance management, training and skills development, as well as involvement in the community.  

“The University of Calgary works hard to attract and retain exceptional faculty and staff,” says Dr. Ed McCauley, president of the University of Calgary. “And we continue to evolve our proactive programs and services to support our people, particularly during these challenging economic times in Alberta.” 

There was a list of reasons the judges selected the university again this year, including RenewFest. The annual winter festival — with a central bonfire (pictured above), snowshoeing and workshops on healthy living — encourages employees to try something new, develop healthy habits and create a community of caring.  Another reason cited by the judges is the university’s commitment to cultivating a family-friendly culture, with onsite child-care options and flexible work options.

The university has more than 6,000 employees contributing their significant energy and experience on five campuses in two countries. “Our employees and their accomplishments inspire pride and a sense of community,” says McCauley.

Over the years, I’ve seen how our colleagues bring outstanding commitment, skill and passion to their professional duties, as well as to our vibrant campus culture.

The Alberta Top Employer award adds to a long list of recent achievements for the university, including being ranked as sixth top research university in Canada, Canada’s Greenest Employers (2019) and one of Canada’s Best Diversity Employers (2017, 2018, 2019).  

First published in 2006, Alberta's Top Employers is an annual competition organized by the editors of Canada's Top 100 Employers. In 2019, the number of Alberta winners was increased from 70 to 75.