BZI Announces #1 Ranking in 2025 Construction Top Workplaces for Midsize U.S. Companies
In a landmark achievement that underscores its commitment to people, innovation, and culture, , a nationally recognized leader in the steel and construction industries, has proudly announced that it has been ranked the #1 company in the “Construction Top Workplaces 2025” award category for U.S. firms with 500–999 employees. The award was presented by Energage, a respected workplace research firm that bases its rankings entirely on employee feedback.
The recognition is part of the Top Workplaces national program, which celebrates organizations that excel in cultivating environments where employees feel empowered, engaged, and appreciated. In this year’s rankings, only 137 construction organizations from across the country made the list, and BZI emerged at the very top among midsize companies in the construction sector—a feat that sets it apart not just within its niche of specialty steel erection, but across the broader construction industry.
A Culture Built Around People
The foundation of BZI’s success lies in its people-first philosophy, which the company has nurtured from its beginnings. Rather than viewing employees as resources, BZI sees them as partners in its mission to transform the construction industry through purpose, passion, and innovation.
“Our culture is not an afterthought—it’s at the center of everything we do,” said James Barlow, CEO of BZI. “Receiving this honor, especially knowing it was based purely on feedback from our team members, is both humbling and deeply meaningful. We strive to create an environment where our people can grow professionally and personally, and this award affirms that we’re moving in the right direction.”
That emphasis on culture isn’t just a corporate talking point—it’s embedded in how BZI operates on job sites, in offices, and across all levels of the organization. The leadership team regularly seeks employee input on policies, safety protocols, career development initiatives, and work-life balance strategies, ensuring that every team member feels heard and valued.
Measuring What Matters: The Survey Behind the Award
What sets the Top Workplaces program apart is its reliance on real, unfiltered employee feedback collected through confidential surveys. Administered by Energage, the survey evaluates companies based on a set of research-backed statements that measure drivers of engaged workplace cultures, including alignment, execution, connection, and leadership.
According to Bob Helbig, Director of Media Partnerships at Energage, BZI’s recognition is well-deserved:
“BZI has created a people-first culture where employees can thrive. This award can’t be bought; it’s earned through employee feedback. The message from employees is clear: BZI is a leader in the industry for unleashing the power of people to accomplish great things.”
Unlike many industry rankings that rely on revenue, growth rates, or executive nominations, the Top Workplaces honor is uniquely merit-based, built entirely on the perceptions and experiences of those who know the company best—its employees.
Transforming Construction Through Innovation and Integrity
BZI is not your typical steel and construction firm. Known for its cutting-edge engineering capabilities, proprietary technologies, and a deep-rooted commitment to safety, BZI has positioned itself as a catalyst for innovation in an industry often slow to embrace change.
The company operates primarily as a specialty steel erector, serving large-scale commercial and industrial projects throughout the United States. What sets BZI apart is its comprehensive project lifecycle integration—offering services that extend from pre-construction planning and 3D modeling to field execution and post-construction support. This holistic approach improves productivity, lowers costs, and enhances job site safety.
But beyond its technical accomplishments, it’s the culture of excellence and mutual respect that fuels BZI’s ascent. From internal mentorship programs to safety incentive systems and on-the-job upskilling, BZI invests in the long-term success of its workforce.
“We’re in the business of building—whether it’s structures, careers, or communities,” added Barlow. “That means ensuring that our team members are equipped not only with the right tools but with the right environment to thrive. This award validates our belief that prioritizing people leads to better business outcomes and stronger teams.”
Reshaping the Future of Construction Workplaces
At a time when the construction industry is grappling with labor shortages, retention issues, and safety concerns, BZI is proving that creating a values-driven, employee-centered culture is not only possible—it’s necessary. The company continues to draw national attention not only for the quality of its work but for its ability to attract and retain top-tier talent in a competitive market.
The company’s efforts go beyond the workplace, too. BZI supports local communities through partnerships with educational institutions, trade programs, and veterans’ organizations, helping more people discover fulfilling careers in the skilled trades.
This sense of shared purpose has been particularly evident in BZI’s response to evolving workforce needs. The company has introduced flexible scheduling, career advancement tracks, and mental health resources to help employees manage both personal and professional challenges. These are just a few of the reasons BZI stood out in the Top Workplaces 2025 survey.
A Commitment That Continues
While the award is a celebration of what BZI has achieved so far, company leadership is treating it as a call to continue raising the bar.
“Our mission doesn’t stop here,” said Barlow. “This recognition is the result of years of intentional effort, but it also challenges us to keep evolving—to continue creating an environment where everyone, from field workers to project managers to support staff, feels inspired to do their best work.”
He added, “We’re honored to be recognized among such outstanding peers in the construction sector. As we look to the future, we remain focused on innovation, excellence, and—most importantly—our people.”
