Southeast Minnesota's 2026 Best Places to Work Announced

Regional program recognizes top employers for workplace excellence

Apr. 13, 2026 at 2:40pm

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A minimalist, photorealistic studio still-life image of a sleek, geometric trophy award made of brushed metal and glass, floating on a clean, monochromatic background to symbolize workplace excellence and employee recognition.A prestigious award honoring Southeast Minnesota's top employers for cultivating exceptional workplace cultures.Wabasha Today

Workforce Development, Inc. (WDI) has announced the 2026 Best Places to Work in Southeast Minnesota, marking the 16th year of the regional initiative that honors employers setting the standard for workplace culture, employee engagement, and organizational excellence. Three organizations with local ties were recognized, including Riverland Community College, Cooperative Response Center, Inc., and Freeborn-Mower Electric Cooperative.

Why it matters

The Best Places to Work awards highlight the importance of creating positive work environments that attract and retain top talent. In a competitive job market, these honors signal to job seekers that the winning employers prioritize employee well-being and satisfaction.

The details

The winners were chosen through a comprehensive survey process administered by national consulting firm Personnel Dynamics. Fifteen companies from 11 counties in Southeast Minnesota were named to the list, demonstrating a clear commitment to fostering workplaces where people want to stay, grow, and contribute. The award recipients were celebrated at the annual Workforce Development Forum and will be able to display the 'Best Places to Work' logo on their marketing materials.

  • The 2026 Best Places to Work in Southeast Minnesota were announced on April 13, 2026.
  • The annual Workforce Development Forum where the winners were celebrated took place on April 9, 2026.

The players

Workforce Development, Inc. (WDI)

A regional organization that partnered with local Workforce Development Boards to administer the Best Places to Work program.

Riverland Community College

A local college recognized as a Large Employer Best Place to Work.

Cooperative Response Center, Inc.

A Mid-Size Employer named to the Best Places to Work list.

Freeborn-Mower Electric Cooperative

A Small Employer recognized as a Best Place to Work.

Personnel Dynamics

A national consulting firm that administered the comprehensive survey process to determine the Best Places to Work winners.

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The takeaway

The Best Places to Work awards in Southeast Minnesota highlight the importance of fostering positive workplace cultures that prioritize employee well-being and satisfaction. In a competitive job market, these honors signal to job seekers that the winning employers are committed to creating environments where people want to stay, grow, and contribute.