News Summary
A total of 65 companies in East Tennessee have been recognized for their outstanding workplace cultures at the Knox News Top Workplaces Awards. Pinnacle Financial Partners was named the top midsize workplace for the eighth consecutive time, while organizations like Axle Logistics and Knoxville Orthopaedic Clinic also received accolades. The awards are based on anonymous employee feedback and highlight local firms’ commitment to employee engagement and exceptional service.
Tennessee – A total of 65 companies in East Tennessee have been recognized for their exceptional workplace cultures at the Knox News Top Workplaces Awards held on July 23 at The Mill & Mine. This prestigious event highlights organizations that provide fulfilling work environments and demonstrate a commitment to employee engagement and customer service excellence.
Among the honorees, Pinnacle Financial Partners stood out in the midsize category, earning the title of the No. 1 Top Workplace for the eighth consecutive time. The financial institution also received the Direction Award, which acknowledges its efforts in establishing a workplace culture that inspires employees by providing a clear sense of direction in the company’s goals and operations.
The Top Workplaces ranking is based entirely on anonymous employee feedback collected through a comprehensive survey by Energage. The evaluation measures various elements of workplace culture, including alignment, execution, connection, and employee satisfaction. Organizations with at least 35 employees were eligible to participate in the survey, and over 1,000 businesses in the Greater Knoxville area were invited to share their insights.
In addition to Pinnacle Financial Partners, Axle Logistics has made significant strides in the industry, marking a period of remarkable growth. The company emphasizes fostering a creative environment for its employees, encouraging a philosophy of “building your own empire” as part of its recruitment and retention strategy. This approach helps to attract talent and maintain a motivated workforce.
An ongoing trend among the honorees is the focus on employee development and engagement. Knoxville Orthopaedic Clinic (KOC) was recognized as a Top Workplace for the third time, previously attaining this honor in 2021 and 2022. KOC, which employs over 1,000 staff across various locations, is renowned for its orthopaedic care and emphasizes the importance of team member engagement as critical to its success.
The ranking has also led to national recognition, with nineteen Knoxville companies being named as USA Today Top Workplace 2025 winners. This highlights the substantial achievements of local businesses in creating environments where employees feel valued and contented in their roles.
Other notable companies include Paschal Solutions, which has transitioned from a small office operation to a leading nuclear safety contractor serving high-profile clients such as the Y-12 National Security Complex in Oak Ridge. This progression illustrates the growth and adaptability of East Tennessee businesses in various sectors.
Pinnacle Financial Partners not only leads in workplace culture but also maintains a strong presence in the region’s banking sector. As of June 30, 2025, the company reported approximately $54.8 billion in assets, making it the second-largest bank holding company headquartered in Tennessee and the fourth-largest in the Knoxville Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA). The bank operates five branch offices in Knox County, reinforcing its commitment to the local economy.
The survey conducted by Energage plays a vital role in determining the Top Workplaces ranking, as employees reveal what they appreciate about their jobs, allowing for a nuanced understanding of workplace dynamics. This collective feedback ensures that the awards honor those organizations that genuinely care about their employees and demonstrate effective practices in creating a positive work environment.
As the awards evolve and more businesses participate, the Top Workplaces list continues to represent a beacon of excellence, showcasing the best organizational practices that contribute to employee satisfaction and business success in East Tennessee.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Knox News: 2025 Top Workplaces in East Tennessee
- Citizen Tribune: Knoxville Orthopaedic Clinic Earns Top Workplace Distinction
- Pinnacle Financial Partners: Top Workplace in Knoxville
- Knox News: Top Workplaces Nomination Deadline Extended
- Tennessean: Best Places to Work in Tennessee 2024
Author: STAFF HERE BRISTOL WRITTER
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