Great employers have a knack for bringing out the best in their employees. In the Lehigh Valley, there is now an opportunity to recognize such organizations through the 2026 Top Workplaces awards. Organized by The Morning Call, this annual event celebrates outstanding workplace culture across the region. Any organization with 35 or more employees is eligible to participate, and nominations are open until August 8, 2025.
The initiative, now in its 14th year, invites nominations from anyone, regardless of whether the employer is public, private, for-profit, or nonprofit. School districts and government agencies are also encouraged to participate. The standout companies will be honored in early 2026, marking a significant achievement for those recognized.
The Nomination Process
Nominating an employer is a straightforward process. Interested parties can visit themorningcall.com/nominate or call 610-628-0921 for more information. There is no cost to participate, making it accessible for all organizations that meet the criteria.
Once nominated, employees will be asked to complete a brief 25-question survey. This survey, designed to take just a few minutes, evaluates various aspects of their workplace experience. Companies with the most positive feedback will qualify as a Lehigh Valley Top Workplace. The surveys will be conducted through October, providing ample time for employee participation.
Energage’s Role and Expertise
The surveys are conducted by Energage, a Philadelphia-based research firm that partners with media outlets in 65 markets nationwide. Energage has extensive experience in this field, having surveyed over 2 million employees across more than 8,000 organizations in the past year alone.
“Earning a Top Workplaces award is a celebration of excellence,” said Energage CEO Eric Rubino. “It serves as a reminder of the vital role a people-first workplace experience plays in achieving success.”
Energage’s involvement ensures that the process is both rigorous and fair, providing a credible benchmark for workplace excellence.
Historical Context and Impact
The Top Workplaces awards have become a prestigious recognition in the Lehigh Valley, with more than 1,000 organizations invited to participate in the 2025 awards. From this pool, 32 companies earned the distinction of being named a Top Workplace, based on employee feedback. This accolade not only boosts morale within companies but also enhances their reputation in the broader community.
The awards highlight the importance of workplace culture in today’s competitive job market. As more companies strive to create environments that foster employee satisfaction and productivity, the recognition serves as a powerful tool for attracting and retaining talent.
Looking Ahead
As the 2026 awards approach, organizations across the Lehigh Valley are encouraged to reflect on their workplace practices and consider participating in this esteemed program. With the nomination deadline fast approaching, now is the time for employees and employers alike to engage in this opportunity to showcase their commitment to excellence.
For those interested in nominating an employer or learning more about the awards, further details can be found on The Morning Call’s website or by reaching out directly via phone. As the region looks forward to celebrating its top workplaces, the initiative continues to underscore the critical role that positive workplace environments play in driving success and innovation.
