People Power: Helix Electric's Non-Union Success
Putting people first is Helix Electric, Inc.'s first priority and reason behind the company's success. As an "open shop," or non-union electrical contractor, Helix Electric prides itself on providing employees with a higher level of freedom and opportunities. One of the ways Helix does this is by training and advancing its personnel. The company believes it is responsible for providing specific technical skills for its more than 1,500 employees.
"This focus on developing employees from within the organization means that clients will constantly benefit from repeated successes, while Helix retains, educates and promotes the best people in the industry," said Gary Shekhter, Helix president and CEO.
As a leader in the electrical contracting field, Helix Electric sends its employees to Helix University, which combines in-house instructors/trainers, technology and video material. Helix educates its employees on a variety of disciplines, from the latest advancements in electrical installations and engineering to project management, scheduling and budgeting.
"We cultivate our people from within the organization, and support our best performers with a wide variety of classes," Shekhter said. "Our quality craftsmen are constantly honing their skills and are ready to seamlessly transfer to from one project to the next."
Job advancement is based on performance, which not only sharpens the employees' competitive edge, but also the overall quality and performance of the company, Shekhter said. He said a critical component behind Helix's success is the company's open-door policy. Under this policy, employees may contact any member of the senior management team to discuss both personal and professional issues.
"Every Helix employee plays a vital role in the company," Shekhter said. "We maintain a culture of mutual respect, trust, openness and candor. New ideas are encouraged, considered and acted upon."
To encourage communication among staff, Helix Electric also distributes employee newsletters, "safety grams," and an employee opinion survey to gauge employee opinion and consensus on critical issues. The company holds two "tailgate" meetings a week to discuss safety issues.
Maintaining quality staff is one of the driving forces behind Helix's non-union stance. Several of the company's senior managers and employees have been working with Helix for more than 15 years, a rarity in the industry. Traditionally, design/build electrical and construction companies have higher turnover rates due to fluctuations in the market, according to Shekhter. However, Helix employee's enjoy a high degree of job security and stability. The company has a backlog of projects that extends well into 2008. Helix Electric also offers its employees a competitive benefits package, including 100-percent employer paid medical and dental insurance, a 401k plan, paid vacation, a $50,000 term life policy, and educational reimbursement.
"The fact that Helix has managed to maintain its non-union status in a highly unionized environment speaks volumes about employee satisfaction," Shekhter said. "Our employees feel a tremendous sense of long-term job security; there is a significant amount of pride and intense loyalty working for Helix."
About Helix Electric:
Founded in 1985, San Diego-based Helix Electric, Inc. has become one of the largest electrical contractors in the United States. The company specializes in design/build, engineering, and installation projects. Helix Electric's services encompass all facets of electrical construction including residential, commercial, and industrial projects, medium voltage power distribution, energy management systems, emergency power systems, fire alarm systems, along with mass transit and rail work. For more information please visit www.helixelectric.com.
