KL Engineering creates its workplace culture by adhering to the theme of making a better experience for its employees.
“It’s a bit of a guiding beacon that can show itself in a lot of different ways, but we are intentional about making this place enjoyable to come to work each day,” said Ryan Schanhofer, president of the transportation engineering firm. “It’s an employee-centric organization.”
The firm provides employees flexibility to enjoy work-life balance and encourages team members to try new ideas and find creative solutions.
“There is a lot of autonomy here. You’re able to carve your own path, but you’re afforded the flexibility to make your work and your life exist in harmony. We allow people to shape their own schedules,” Schanhofer said.
KL Engineering has four Wisconsin offices, and Scott Cramer, its chief operating officer, makes it a point to know employees personally.
“You realize that the little things are really the big things. Just simply knowing someone’s kid’s name is important and people appreciate your being present and listening,” Cramer said. “You have to go beyond saying you care and listen to their ideas and concerns.”
The firm also encourages people to work across disciplinary boundaries, especially when they are younger or new to the company.
“We don’t have silos in how we do our work,” Schanhofer said. “We help integration and build relationships and let people really experience different fields of engineering and see where they fit and what they enjoy.”
Cramer said innovation and creative thinking is encouraged at KL Engineering.
“We’re big on failing — but failing forward. We love to see young people try new things and stretch themselves,” he said. “There are some leaders who are threatened by a 28-year-old walking in and telling them how to change. For me, that’s cool. I’m glad you’re smart. We hired the right person.”
