Airfoil Group has been named a 2026 Inspiring Workplaces Finalist, joining a distinguished group of organizations such as AutoLeap, COS, Equifax Canada, Hitachi Energy, Macmillan Publishers, RS, Staples Canada, SurveyMonkey, and Union Pacific Railroad. The 2026 Inspiring Workplaces Finalist distinction is part of the world’s leading PeopleFirst HR & Workplaces Awards, in association with Engagedly, which celebrate organizations that prioritize employee experience and workplace culture.

From the pool of shortlisted finalists, the highest-ranked organizations will be recognized as winners at an exclusive event in Chicago on June 17, 2026.

This year’s finalists represent a diverse range of organizations that are redefining what it means to put PeopleFirst in the modern world of work. From innovative scale-ups to established global brands, each finalist has demonstrated a commitment to building cultures rooted in trust, inclusion, wellbeing, and meaningful employee experience. Their stories highlight not only policies and programs but also real impact, where people are empowered to thrive and organizational performance follows.

Matt Manners, Founder of The Inspiring Workplaces Group, commented: “Over the past decade and more, we have seen extraordinary organizations step forward to prove that putting PeopleFirst is not a soft choice, it is a strategic one. In a world facing increasing economic uncertainty, technological disruption, and difficult political challenges, the need for strong, PeopleFirst leadership has never been greater.”

“These finalists represent the very best of what PeopleFirst cultures can achieve. They are demonstrating that when organizations prioritize trust, inclusion, wellbeing, and purpose, they don’t just support their people, they strengthen performance, resilience, and long-term impact. That is the future of work, and it’s inspiring to see it in action.”

Being Named a 2026 Inspiring Workplaces Finalist

Entrants from around the world submit the same entry form, sharing their PeopleFirst story. The rigorous application consists of six key elements that IW believes are fundamental to creating a PeopleFirst culture and, by extension, an Inspiring Workplace. These elements are: Culture and Purpose; Leadership; Wellbeing; Inclusion & Belonging; Employee Voice; and Employee Experience.

Organizations of all sizes and industries enter a category defined by the number of people within the business.

These submissions are then reviewed by a local panel of independent expert judges who score them according to a clear set of criteria. From the shortlisted finalists announced today, the highest-ranked organizations will be announced as winners on June 17, 2026.

Key Takeaways

• Recognition: Airfoil Group is a 2026 Inspiring Workplaces Finalist, joining top organizations across North America.

• PeopleFirst Focus: The awards honor organizations that prioritize trust, belonging, and employee experience.

• Diverse Finalists: Finalists include innovative scale-ups and established global brands.

• Rigorous Evaluation: Submissions are judged by independent experts on six key PeopleFirst elements.

• Evergreen Impact: Inspiring Workplaces Finalists set the standard for modern workplace culture and leadership.

Conclusion

Being named a 2026 Inspiring Workplaces Finalist signifies Airfoil Group’s commitment to PeopleFirst values, trust, and impactful workplace culture, positioning the organization among North America’s leading employers.

FAQ

What does it mean to be a 2026 Inspiring Workplaces Finalist?

A 2026 Inspiring Workplaces Finalist is an organization recognized for prioritizing PeopleFirst values, such as trust, inclusion, and employee wellbeing, and is selected from a competitive pool of entrants across North America.

Where can I find the full list of 2026 Inspiring Workplaces Finalists?

The comprehensive list of 2026 Inspiring Workplaces Finalists, including Airfoil Group and other leading organizations, can be found here.

How do Inspiring Workplaces Finalists compare to other workplace awards?

Inspiring Workplaces Finalists are recognized for their commitment to PeopleFirst cultures, which emphasizes trust, inclusion, and employee experience, distinguishing them from other workplace awards that may focus solely on benefits or perks.