Commission changes

Despite last summer’s landmark court settlement by the National Association of Realtors, which was expected to lower commissions, Denver-area real estate companies say they have experienced few changes.

“We have seen a change, but so far it has been a modest change,” said Jon Larrance, broker-owner of Corcoran Perry Co., which ranked sixth for small businesses on this year’s Top Workplaces list.

The lawsuit also set the stage for higher commission rates and “paved the way for real estate agents to charge upfront retainers like lawyers and other respected professionals do. The best practitioners will always demand the highest compensation rates while part-time agents fight over clients looking for the deepest discounts.”

New Home Star Market Strategist Dan White said while agent commissions might decrease, real estate companies can keep agent pay steady by increasing fees.

A tough market

Real estate agents continue to navigate a challenging market with interest rates above 6%. Despite inventory increasing in the past few months, home prices remain elevated, and sales aren’t keeping pace.

The metro recorded 1,061 closed sales for the first quarter of 2025. That’s up 7% from 988 in 2024, up 22% from 870 in 2023, down 8% from 1,147 in 2022, and up 20% from 885 in 2021.

The median home sale price in March for the Denver metro was $599,000. That’s down 3.9% from its April 2022 peak, but it still shows an annual appreciation of almost 7% over the past five years.

The housing market has remained largely stagnant for the past two years, following a surge during the pandemic.

That may encourage some agents to leave the job.

“Yes, the market is challenging, and some agents will leave,” said operations manager Liliana Mendez with Madison & Co. Properties, which ranked first for midsize businesses on this year’s Top Workplaces list.

“However, experienced, well-supported agents—like those at Madison—are well-positioned to thrive and gain market share.”

Stacie Staub, West + Main CEO, said the company has lost a few agents and doesn’t anticipate losing many more.

“We have better retention and higher growth than our competitors, partly because our fees and commission splits are more affordable than most, allowing agents to maintain their license with us even if they are not doing as many sides as they typically do,” she said.

Real estate companies need to provide support to their agents, said New Home Star market director Chris Laskowski.

“As a leader in new home sales, we pride ourselves on our ability to bolster sales agents in slower selling seasons and celebrate alongside them during busy ones—something all new home sales companies should do to retain talented agents.”

Larrance said that despite predictions that agents would flee the industry, that isn’t happening, and he hasn’t seen a significant reduction in the number of real estate licenses.

“It’s not that expensive to maintain an active real estate license while having a full-time job in another industry,” he said.

However, buyers and sellers face additional risks when working with part-time agents.

“The upshot of that is we see more unprofessional behaviors and unethical treatment of the consumer played out by those part-time agents due to the fact that they are not actively engaged in the business or the changing regulations,” Larrance said.

Will agencies close or merge?

Colorado real estate companies anticipate more shakeups in their industry, including agency closures and mergers.

Earlier this year, Rocket Companies, a leading mortgage broker, acquired Redfin, a digital real estate brokerage. The Wall Street Journal reported that Compass is in advanced talks to acquire Berkshire Hathaway’s HomeServices of America, which includes Denver-based Kentwood Real Estate.

White with New Home Star, which ranked 60th among the best small businesses, predicts that mergers and the increasing prevalence of homebuyers using internet listing sites like Zillow, Redfin, and Realtor.com will lead to a leaner workforce with fewer real estate agents.

Smaller brokerages may struggle, Mendez said. However, Madison’s strong foundation, reputation, and adaptability position us for continued success, even with market shifts.

Staub said West+Main, which ranked second for midsize businesses this year, is often approached about potential interest in selling or merging. She said the industry is experiencing mergers and acquisitions not only between brokerages but also with finance, mortgage, and title companies.

While 14% of employees nationwide work from home, the rate is 28% in Boulder and 22% in Denver.

That’s unlikely to change.

Stanford economists Nicholas Bloom and Steven Davis assessed reactions to remote work changes following the return-to-office orders of companies like Amazon. They concluded that these mandates will not significantly impact remote work, and U.S. companies do not anticipate a substantial shift back to the office.

That’s good news for employers because a Pew Research Center survey revealed that 48% of remote workers would seek new jobs if required to return to the office.

Denver area employers continue to offer hybrid options

“We offer a hybrid work environment that entrusts employees with the best approach to work—for them and their team,” said Liz Johnson, publication relations director for Pinnacol Assurance.

“Some team members come in regularly, while others choose to work remotely.”

Kathleen Hoxworth, vice president of communications and talent strategy at Elevations Credit Union, said the credit union has no plans to modify offering hybrid work.

“After the disruption of COVID, we landed on a model that works very well for our staff. Although there are some positions that require employees to be onsite full-time, many of our staff are hybrid with the expectation that they are in the office at least 50% of the time,” Hoxworth said.

“This allows us to balance many employees’ wishes to spend some time working from home with our desire to maintain the strong, relationship-focused culture we’ve worked so hard to create.

Madison & Co. Properties plans to continue offering a flexible work model, said Liliana Mendez, operations manager.

“For Madison, a hybrid approach fosters greater productivity, agent/staff satisfaction, and business growth while ensuring a strong company culture through in-person events and collaboration opportunities.”

Keeping employees happy

Offering flexible options is good for employers and employees.

“For Elevations, it can lead to increased productivity and the ability to attract and retain top talent who value flexibility,” Hoxworth said.

“For employees, working from home offers greater work-life balance, reduced commuting time and expenses, and the flexibility to create a comfortable and personalized work environment. This arrangement can lead to higher job satisfaction and overall well-being, which in turn benefits the business through improved employee engagement and performance.”

Providing flexibility improves employee satisfaction.

“They tell us they are happier, more productive and better able to engage with family, hobbies and other meaningful pursuits and responsibilities,” Johnson said.

Offering a remote work option also presents opportunities to recruit top talent.

“Our work from home options afford us the opportunity to identify the best talent no matter where they are located,” said Julie Wooten, senior vice president of people services for Coral Tree Hospitality.

No. 1

Homewatch Caregivers of North Suburban Denver and Boulder County

Years ranked: 2
Founded: 2011
Headquarters: Longmont
Employees: 120, with 91 in Colorado
Facts: Homewatch Caregivers offers in-home services to people of all ages.

No. 2

Summit Wealth Group

Years ranked: 1
Founded: 2002
Headquarters: Colorado Springs
Employees: 66
Facts: Summit Wealth Group is a financial advisory firm that provides services, including financial planning, wealth management, and investment strategies.

No. 3

CoralTree Hospitality Group

Years ranked: 3
Founded: 2018
Headquarters: Englewood
Employees: 6,000, with 65 in Colorado
Facts: CoralTree develops and manages world-class independent luxury and lifestyle hotels and resorts.

No. 4

Brighton Hospice-Colorado

Years ranked: 3
Founded: 2020
Headquarters: Sandy, Utah
Employees: 672, 102 in Colorado
Facts: Brighton Hospice strives to provide patients and their families with the highest quality physical, emotional, and spiritual care.

No. 5

Footers Catering

Years ranked: 6, 4 consecutive
Founded: 1981
Headquarters: Arvada
Employees: 50
Facts: Footers Catering is a second-generation family-owned business that caters to more than 450 full-service events and feeds more than 100,000 guests each year. Footers prepares all its menus on-site to provide the highest quality possible.

No. 6

Corcoran Perry & Co.

Years ranked: 3
Founded: 1971
Headquarters: Denver
Employees: 122
Facts: Corcoran Perry & Co. is a locally owned and operated real estate company with a tradition of integrity, client service and satisfaction.

No. 7

Cain Travel Group Inc.

Years ranked: 8, 4 consecutive
Founded: 1975
Headquarters: Boulder
Employees: 62
Facts: Cain Travel is a full-service travel agency focused on corporate and group travel management. With an 80 percent female team, Cain Travel is proud to be one of the largest woman-owned companies in Colorado.

No. 8

Prime Jet

Years ranked: 1
Founded: 2002
Headquarters: Englewood
Employees: 86
Facts: Prime Jet is a premier provider of personalized private charter, aircraft management, and 24/7 logistics support for private luxury travel.

No. 9

Carlton Electric

Years ranked: 5
Founded: 1993
Headquarters: Denver
Employees: 101
Facts: Carlton Electric is a full-service electrical contractor that serves customers in Colorado and Wyoming.

No. 10

Strategic Alliance Business Group

Years ranked: 1
Founded: 2013
Headquarters: Fairfax, Virginia
Employees: 330, with 50 in Colorado
Facts: Strategic Alliance Business Group LLC is a privately owned professional services company, certified as both a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned and Women-Owned Small Business. It provides support to commercial and federal clients in program management, acquisition, strategic planning, mission operations, intelligence, logistics, and engineering.

No. 11

Xentity Corporation

Years ranked: 2
Founded: 2001
Headquarters: Golden
Employees: 74
Facts: Xentity specializes in data programs focused on big data, geospatial data, open data, and IoT/remote sensing.

No. 12

Denver Scholarship Foundation

Years named: 6, 3 consecutive
Founded: 2006
Headquarters: Denver
Employees: 85
Facts: The Denver Foundation Community Scholarship was established to support first-generation, economically disadvantaged college students pursuing post-secondary education.

No. 13

The Nakupuna Companies

Years ranked: 1
Founded: 2003
Headquarters: Honolulu, Hawaii
Employees: 1,300, with 55 in Colorado
Facts: The Nakupuna Companies consist of eight small businesses owned by a Native Hawaiian Organization that provides IT, logistics, and environmental services.

No. 14

City Light & Power, Inc.

Years ranked: 1
Founded: 1995
Headquarters: Honolulu, Hawaii
Employees: 340, with 69 in Colorado
Facts: City Light & Power builds and manages power distribution systems for customers nationwide.

No. 15

Vanguard Skin Specialists

Years ranked: 5
Founded: 2009
Headquarters: Colorado Springs
Employees: 140
Locations: 7
Facts: Vanguard Skin Specialists is a dermatology, plastic surgery, and aesthetic practice specializing in dermatology, Mohs surgery, dermatopathology, plastic surgery, and aesthetics.

No. 16

CrossCountry Mortgage LLC

Years ranked: 4, 2 consecutive
Founded: 2003
Headquarters: Brecksville, Ohio
Employees: 8,000, with 125 in Colorado
Facts: CrossCountry Mortgage is a nationwide full-service lender that’s been named to the Inc. 5000 List of America’s Fastest-Growing Companies 10 times.

No. 17

CAP Logistics

Years ranked: 4
Founded: 1982
Headquarters: Denver
Employees: 74
Facts: CAP Logistics specializes in providing freight solutions to industries that cannot afford expensive downtime.

No. 18

ICAT

Years named: 9, 2 consecutive
Founded: 1998
Headquarters: Broomfield
Employees: 148
Facts: ICAT offers catastrophe insurance coverage to business owners and homeowners in areas of the United States exposed to hurricanes and earthquakes.

No. 19

CRS Insurance Brokerage

Years ranked: 3
Founded: 1993
Headquarters: Englewood
Employees: 72
Facts: CRS is an insurance brokerage that provides 24/7 service and expert advice to help reduce risk, maximize potential, and boost profitability.

No. 20

Camden Property Trust

Years ranked: 4, 2 consecutive
Founded: 1982
Headquarters: Houston
Employees: 1,776, with 74 in Colorado
Locations: 10
Facts: Camden Property Trust is a real estate investment trust that owns and manages 172 apartment communities across the United States. The company’s name is derived from combining the founders’ names, Ric Campo and Keith Oden.

No. 21

National Valuation Consultants, Inc.

Years ranked: 4
Founded: 1991
Headquarters: Centennial
Employees: 120, with 62 in Colorado
Facts: National Valuation Consultants, Inc. is the largest privately held commercial real estate appraisal firm in the United States. NVC has additional offices in Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Cincinnati, Dallas, Houston, New York, San Francisco, and South Florida.

No. 22

The Garrett Companies

Years ranked: 4
Founded: 2014
Headquarters: Greenwood, Indiana
Employees: 306, 125 in Colorado
Facts: The Garrett Companies is a full-service multifamily development, construction, and property management team that develops, builds, and manages multifamily apartment projects nationwide.

No. 23

Pella Denver and Northern Colorado

Years ranked: 2
Founded: 1961
Headquarters: Denver
Employees: 115
Locations: 3
Facts: Pella Denver and Northern Colorado supplies residential and commercial windows and doors to customers from Denver to Glenwood Springs.

No. 24

Muller Engineering Company Inc.

Years named: 8, 3 consecutive
Founded: 1980
Headquarters: Lakewood
Employees: 140
Facts: Muller Engineering Company, Inc., is an employee-owned civil engineering consulting firm specializing in planning and designing transportation facilities, water resources projects, stormwater and flood control management, and water and wastewater utilities.

No. 25

CCIG

Years ranked: 9, 4 consecutive
Founded: 1985
Headquarters: Englewood
Employees: 110
Facts: CCIG is recognized as one of Colorado’s leading insurance brokerages. It provides property, casualty, and life insurance to clients throughout the region, as well as benefits and risk management services for businesses.

No. 26

Pinnacle Real Estate Advisors

Years ranked: 8, 7 consecutive
Founded: 2006
Headquarters: Denver
Employees: 70
Facts: Pinnacle Real Estate Advisors is a full-service commercial real estate brokerage firm that specializes in delivering innovative, client-centric, and relationship-focused real estate solutions.

No. 27

Atlas Real Estate

Years ranked: 3
Founded: 2013
Headquarters: Denver
Employees: 165, with 68 in Colorado
Facts: Atlas Real Estate is a full-service real estate company specializing in investment services, property management and institutional acquisitions. With offices in 10 nationwide, Atlas transacts over $3 billion in real estate annually and manages more than 9,000 residential units.

No. 28

Green Spoon Sales

Years ranked: 3
Founded: 2012
Headquarters: Boulder
Employees: 222, 50 in Colorado
Facts: Green Spoon is a national natural food and beverage sales agency that serves natural and conventional groceries.

No. 29

ECC

Years ranked: 3
Founded: 1985
Headquarters: Burlingame, Calif.
Employees: 350, with 54 in Colorado
Facts: ECC provides clients with comprehensive environmental remediation and engineering services. The company has expanded its core capabilities to include construction, design-build, energy, and munitions response services.

No. 30

Rand Construction Corporation

Years ranked: 1
Founded: 1989
Headquarters: Alexandria, Virginia
Employees: 354, with 51 in Colorado
Facts: Rand Construction Corporation is a general contractor specializing in commercial tenant interiors. It offers pre-construction planning, construction, and ground-up services nationwide, with offices in Washington, D.C., Atlanta, Austin, Dallas, Denver, Houston, and Salt Lake City.

No. 31

David Evans and Associates

Years ranked: 2
Founded: 1976
Headquarters: Portland, Oregon
Employees: 1,065, with 68 in Colorado
Facts: David Evans and Associates provides engineering and planning services for transportation, land development, energy, and marine projects.

No. 32

Digible

Years ranked: 5
Founded: 2017
Headquarters: Englewood
Employees: 118
Facts: Digible is a digital marketing and technology company specializing in multifamily housing.

No. 33

Brothers Plumbing, Heating and Electric

Years named: 8, 3 consecutive
Founded: 1980
Headquarters: Denver
Employees: 92
Facts: Brothers Plumbing, Heating, and Electric is a family-owned business that provides comprehensive services in plumbing, heating, air conditioning, electrical, drain, and water heater installation and repair.

No. 34

American Indian College Fund

Years ranked: 6
Founded: 1989
Headquarters: Denver
Employees: 85, with 53 in Colorado
Facts: The American Indian College Fund raises money and provides scholarships to help American Indians achieve their higher education and career objectives.

No. 35

Greystone Technology

Years ranked: 8, 6 consecutive
Founded: 2001
Headquarters: Denver
Employees: 130, with 103 in Colorado
Locations: 3
Facts: Greystone Technology Group is a privately held company that provides IT services to businesses in Denver, Fort Collins, Boulder, and the New York City metro area.

No. 36

Dividend Restaurant Group

Years ranked: 4
Founded: 2018
Headquarters: Denver
Employees: 3,500, with 52 in Colorado
Facts: Dividend Restaurant Group, the owner of Eddie Merlot’s, Sullivan’s Steakhouse, and Beauty and the Burger, brings together some of the country’s best-known brands.

No. 37

Simpson Housing

Years ranked: 2
Founded: 1948
Headquarters: Denver
Employees: 630, with 136 in Colorado
Facts: Simpson Housing is an experienced, fully integrated real estate firm that provides services in commercial and multifamily property management, development, and construction.

No. 38

GPT Industries, LLC

Years ranked: 1
Founded: 2023
Headquarters: Wheat Ridge
Employees: 122, with 72 in Colorado
Facts: GPT Industries manufactures pipeline sealing and electrical isolation products with an emphasis on safety, performance, and reliability, serving the oil and gas, water, hydrogen, construction, and infrastructure sectors.

No. 39

Logical Systems LSI

Years ranked: 2
Founded: 1985
Headquarters: Memphis, Tennessee
Employees: 300, with 60 in Colorado
Facts: Logical Systems is a global systems integrator specializing in automation, systems integration, electrical engineering, and process optimization.

No. 40

RMH Group

Years ranked: 6, 3 consecutive
Founded: 1961
Headquarters: Lakewood
Employees: 70
Facts: The RMH Group provides comprehensive mechanical, electrical, and industrial services, encompassing planning, design, LEED consulting, ENERGY STAR consulting, energy modeling, and lighting and daylighting modeling.

No. 41

Brighton Hospice-Colorado

Years ranked: 1
Founded: 2012
Headquarters: Sandy, Utah
Employees: 670, 97 in Colorado
Facts: Brighton Hospice strives to provide patients and their families with the highest quality physical, emotional, and spiritual care.

No. 42

S3 Shared Service Solutions

Years ranked: 2
Founded: 2012
Headquarters: Baltimore, Maryland
Employees: 900, with 111 in Colorado
Facts: S3 Shared Service Solutions, LLC is a Credit Union Service Organization that provides banking, real estate lending, and finance services to credit unions.

No. 43

Wavelynx

Years ranked: 1
Founded: 2013
Headquarters: Broomfield
Employees: 104
Facts: Wavelynx is a leader in mobile-first identity and access control solutions, designing and developing essential open hardware and software, including readers, controllers, and mobile credentials, for the growing access control market.

No. 44

WilmerHale

Years ranked: 3
Founded: 2004
Headquarters: Washington, D.C.
Employees: 2,042, with 62 in Colorado
Facts: WilmerHale is an international law firm dedicated to delivering high-quality legal services, fostering a diverse team of lawyers and staff, and promoting public service.

No. 45

LPR Construction Co.

Years ranked: 4
Founded: 1979
Headquarters: Loveland
Employees: 400, with 50 in Colorado
Facts: LPR Construction Co. specializes in structural steel erection. Initially focused on commercial and industrial projects, it expanded into industrial construction and plant services in 2005. It is recognized as a leading contractor across the U.S.

No. 46

Walker & Dunlop, LLC

Years ranked: 2
Founded: 1937
Headquarters: Bethesda, Maryland
Employees: 1,390, with 63 in Colorado
Facts: Walker & Dunlop, LLC is a commercial real estate finance and advisory services firm.

No. 47

Enverus

Years ranked: 1
Founded: 1999
Headquarters: Austin, Texas
Employees: 1,596, with 106 in Colorado
Facts: Enverus is a SaaS company that uses generative AI to deliver analytics and insights, providing benchmark cost and revenue data from over 95% of U.S. energy producers. It enhances production, distribution, and renewable energy development, serving over 6,000 customers in 50 countries.

No. 48

Melco

Years ranked: 2
Founded: 1972
Headquarters: Westminster
Employees: 73
Facts: Melco designs and manufactures commercial embroidery machines and software.

No. 49

Koniag Government Services

Years ranked: 1
Founded: 1975
Headquarters: Chantilly, Virginia
Employees: 2,667, with 50 in Colorado
Locations: 3
Facts: Koniag Government Services (KGS) is an Alaska Native Owned Corporation that provides solutions and services to Federal Government Agencies.

No. 50

DM Construction

Years named: 4, 3 consecutive
Founded: 1985
Headquarters: Sheridan
Employees: 120, with 88 in Colorado
Facts: DM Construction is a full-service exterior cladding contractor that offers over 15 services, including stone, stucco, brick, and renovation.

No. 51

Aledade, Inc.

Years named: 1
Founded: 2014
Headquarters: Bethesda, Maryland
Employees: 1,534, with 63 in Colorado
Facts: Aledade serves as the largest network of independent primary care in the United States. It helps independent practices, health centers, and clinics deliver better care to their patients.

No. 52

Copic

Years named: 1
Founded: 1981
Headquarters: Denver
Employees: 137
Facts: COPIC is a leading medical liability insurance provider focused on improving patient safety and reducing medical errors.

No. 53

Sargent & Lundy

Years named: 1
Founded: 1891
Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois
Employees: 4,055, with 95 in Colorado
Facts: Sargent & Lundy is a global leader in power and energy, focusing on decarbonization, renewable energy, nuclear power, and carbon capture. The firm offers services including consulting, design, construction management, and operations, with a focus on quality and safety.

No. 54

ERO Resources Corporation

Years named: 3
Founded: 1981
Headquarters: Lakewood
Employees: 93
Locations: 3
Facts: ERO Resources Corporation is an environmental services company that specializes in natural resource and environmental assessment, planning, and permitting.

No. 55

Haynie & Company

Years ranked: 2
Founded: 1960
Headquarters: Indianapolis
Employees: 437, with 64 in Colorado
Locations: 2
Facts: Haynie & Company is a tax, audit, and business consulting firm with 14 locations across Utah, Colorado, Texas, Nevada, and Arizona.

No. 56

Ascend, Inc.

Years ranked: 3
Founded: 2003
Headquarters: Boulder
Employees: 131
Facts: Ascend was formed through the merger of HRMS Solutions and ATS Management Consulting. As a UKG partner, it offers services for UKG Pro and Workforce Management solutions, with a focus on implementation, support, and managed payroll services.

No. 57

SambaSafety

Years ranked: 5
Founded: 1998
Headquarters: Greenwood Village
Employees: 315, with 104 in Colorado
Facts: SambaSafety is the industry leader in cloud-based driver risk management software. SambaSafety helps companies identify their high-risk driving populations, making roads safer for everyone.

No. 58

Climb Credit Union

Years named: 2
Founded: 1951
Headquarters: Arvada
Employees: 139
Locations: 5
Facts: Climb Credit Union, formerly Sooper Credit Union, has 40,000 members.

No. 59

Lifetime Home Remodeling

Years named: 1
Founded: 2009
Headquarters: Denver
Employees: 244, with 140 in Colorado
Facts: Lifetime Home Remodeling offers services including window and door replacements, siding installation, and bathroom renovations.

No. 60

New Home Star

Years named: 1
Founded: 2008
Headquarters: Elmhurst, Illinois
Employees: 486, with 50 in Colorado
Facts: New Home Star is the largest private seller of new homes in America.

No. 61

Pinyon Environmental Inc.

Years ranked: 5, 3 consecutive
Founded: 1993
Headquarters: Lakewood
Employees: 90
Facts: Pinyon Environmental is a woman-owned environmental consulting firm serving Colorado clients. It offers air quality and noise services, biological resources, engineering and compliance, industrial hygiene, landscape architecture, and more.

No. 62

Bibbeo Ltd

Years ranked: 4
Founded: 2012
Headquarters: Aurora
Employees: 476, with 75 in Colorado
Facts: Bibbeo is a nationally recognized technology solutions provider that offers services and installations across the United States.

No. 63

ezCater

Years ranked: 5, 3 consecutive
Founded: 2007
Headquarters: Boston
Employees: 1,019, with 94 in Colorado
Facts: With a network of 100,000-plus restaurants across the U.S., ezCater provides flexible and scalable food solutions for everything from daily employee meals to sales meetings.

No. 64

Accuris

Years ranked: 1
Founded: 1959
Headquarters: Denver
Employees: 350, with 157 in Colorado
Facts: Accuris (formerly IHS) helps engineers and innovators address challenges, enabling their clients to leverage smart software and enhance engineering, supply chain, and product processes.

No. 65

KidsCare Home Health

Years ranked: 2
Founded: 2003
Headquarters: Dallas
Employees: 925, with 103 in Colorado
Facts: KidsCare Home Health is a pediatric home health agency that serves children with special needs. Services include nursing, speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and case management.

No. 66

AFC Urgent Care Denver

Years ranked: 6
Founded: 2013
Headquarters: Denver
Employees: 122
Facts: AFC Urgent Care offers fast and comprehensive medical care with short wait times and reasonable rates. The company provides prompt and comprehensive healthcare services, featuring an on-site laboratory and digital X-ray machine, to enhance the diagnosis and treatment of illnesses and injuries.

No. 67

ENSCO

Years ranked: 2
Founded: 1969
Headquarters: Vienna, Virginia
Employees: 768, with 115 in Colorado
Facts: ENSCO, Inc. is a technology company with $180 million in revenue. It provides engineering and technology solutions in aerospace, national security, and surface transportation, with a focus on safety and reliability.

No. 68

Power Design Inc.

Years ranked: 1
Founded: 1969
Headquarters: St. Petersburg, Florida
Employees: 2,848, with 64 in Colorado
Facts: Power Design is a National Design Build Contractor specializing in innovative construction across electrical, mechanical, plumbing, and systems technologies.

No. 69

Thompson Thrift

Years ranked: 2
Founded: 1986
Headquarters: Indianapolis
Employees: 612, with 85 in Colorado
Facts: Thompson Thrift is a full-service real estate company that develops multifamily, mixed-use, retail, industrial, and commercial projects across the nation.

While AI tools promise efficiency and enhanced candidate sourcing, concerns about bias, the reliability of automated screening, and the authenticity of applicant materials are prompting employers to navigate the fine line between technological advancement and human judgment.

AI’s role in the hiring process

In Colorado, businesses are becoming creative in their use of AI in hiring processes.

Pinnacol Assurance utilizes AI to automate tedious tasks to improve efficiency. The company uses advanced sourcing platforms to identify and attract candidates.

Elevations Credit Union uses AI to scan applications and resumes for keywords.

Bloom Healthcare utilizes AI to streamline administrative tasks and refine its approach to identifying top talent.

“We’re using it to build better hiring tools and source candidates whose experience and values align with what it takes to thrive at Bloom,” said Jeanine Lally, Bloom Healthcare co-founder.

“It allows our team to focus more on meaningful conversations and making strong, people-centered hiring decisions.”

Not all companies are jumping on the AI bandwagon.

Liliana Mendez, operations manager at Madison & Co. Properties, said the real estate company decided not to rely on AI.

“At Madison, we believe hiring is deeply personal, so we’ve chosen not to rely on AI in our hiring process. Human connection is at the heart of what we do, and we value in-person conversations to truly assess fit, character, and potential,” she said.

Randy Morris, CEO of Summit Wealth Group, said the company isn’t using AI. “We believe in a hands-on approach.”

AI drives application volume

Using AI makes it easier to apply for jobs, which is boosting the number of applicants per job, representatives for Madison & Co. and Elevations Credit Union said.

“Since job seekers have discovered the ability to use AI to apply for jobs, we have seen a significant uptick in applications, especially for certain specialized roles,” said Alex Dutton, manager of talent acquisition and inclusion for Elevations Credit Union.

Screening candidates

Liz Johnson, Pinnacol Assurance’s public relations director, said the company initially screened resumes and applications to distinguish between those who were using AI to generate their application materials and those who weren’t.

“Policing the users and the non-users isn’t an efficient use of our time, and because our company embraces the use of AI, knowing that candidates have fluency is an indication of another skill they have in their skill set.”

However, screening potential job candidates remains a relatively manual and human-centric process.

Dutton said the company uses AI to scan applications and resumes for keywords.

Mendez said Madison & Co. doesn’t use AI to screen or track candidates.

“We rely on real conversations and direct engagement to get to know applicants. For us, it’s about building relationships from the very beginning.”

Julie Wooten, Coral Tree Hospitality’s senior vice president for people service, said the company uses AI to help with candidate follow-up but doesn’t use it to screen or track candidates.

Hiring college graduates

Nationally, managers are increasingly reluctant to hire recent college graduates due to concerns about work ethic, professionalism, and interview preparedness.

But in Colorado, employers remain enthusiastic about hiring recent grads.

“We are always looking for talent in any and all talent pools that we believe can deliver future team members with the skills and potential we need to continue to thrive,” Johnson said.

“Our involvement with the University of Denver Risk Management Program further ensures a strong pipeline of skilled professionals for the insurance industry.”

Mendez said the company welcomes recent graduates who are eager to learn and grow.

“Whether on the staff or agent side, we offer mentorship, training, and a supportive environment to help them build the skills they need. We value drive, curiosity, and a strong work ethic.”

Lally said hiring recent graduates has always been a vital part of Bloom Healthcare’s strategy.

“They bring fresh perspectives and strong potential. We invest heavily in onboarding and development to set them up for success,” she said. “And that investment consistently pays off in retention and growth within the organization.

Wooten said hiring recent college graduates brings fresh perspectives to Coral Tree Hospitality. The company often initiates these relationships during internships that enable students to gain experience in the hospitality industry.

“We believe that fresh talent brings innovative ideas and new perspectives that are invaluable to our company,” she said. “By welcoming recent graduates, we not only enhance our team’s diversity but also foster a dynamic environment where creativity and fresh thinking thrive.”

Morris said Summit is open to hiring recent graduates, especially those who complete a certified financial planner program.

“We believe that designation indicates the individual will have a bright future in this industry,” he said.

Talent outlook

So far in 2025, Pinnacol has experienced a significant increase in applicants from laid-off federal employees.

“We anticipate that, at least in the short term, the job market will favor companies hiring rather than applicants seeking work,” Johnson said.

Morris anticipates employers will have more options as the pool of qualified candidates continues to grow.

“With more options available, it becomes easier to find the right fit,” he said.

“When applicants explore Summit’s culture, our momentum for growth, and the benefits we offer, we believe many will feel encouraged and inspired to take the next step and apply.”

Jean Ingram, vice president of total rewards for Elevations Credit Union, anticipates stagnant wage growth due to uncertainty from layoffs and budget cuts in both the federal and private sectors.

“Our compensation philosophy has been, and will continue to be, based on a combination of an individual’s experience, internal equity, and our research into what similar roles are paid in the market,” she said.

“We are thoughtful about long-term attraction and retention, so we will continue to pay competitively, even as the market softens.”

Criteria: “I have confidence in the leadership team of this company.”

Large: Gerry Agnes, Elevations Credit Union

Midsize: Tom Lally, Bloom Healthcare

Small: Leisle Chung, Vanguard Skin Specialists

Direction

Criteria: “I believe this company is going in the right direction.”

Large: Progressive Insurance

Managers

Criteria: “My manager helps me learn and grow.” 

Midsize: Nextworld

New Ideas

Criteria: “New ideas are encouraged at this company.”

Large: Ibotta, Inc.

Doers

Criteria: “At this company, we do things efficiently and well.”

Small: Homewatch Caregivers of North Suburban Denver and Boulder County

Meaningfulness

Criteria: “My job makes me feel like I am part of something meaningful.”

Large: Craig Hospital

Values

Criteria: “This company operates by strong values.”

Small: Summit Wealth Group

Clued in Senior Management

Criteria: “Senior managers understand what is really happening at this company.”

Midsize: Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation

Communication

Criteria: “I feel well-informed about important decisions at this company.”

Small: CoralTree Hospitality Group

Appreciation

Criteria: “I feel genuinely appreciated at this company.”

Small: Green Spoon Sales

Work/Life Flexibility

Criteria: “I have the flexibility I need to balance my work and personal life.”

Midsize: CableLabs

Training

Criteria: “I get the formal training I want for my career.”

Midsize: West + Main Homes

Well-Being

Criteria: “This company does a great job of prioritizing employee well-being.”

Midsize: StoneAge, Inc.

Benefits

Criteria: “My benefits package is good compared to others in this industry.”

Small: Muller Engineering Company, Inc.

Many financial institutions face significant challenges during economic fluctuations and periods of high interest rates.

However, Elevations Credit Union maintains a robust business model that enables it to weather these storms with minimal disruption, said Kathleen Hoxworth, vice president of communications and talent strategy.

Elevations’ dedication to community involvement is evident in its Local Change Foundation, which has contributed more than $4 million since 2010.

“Our employees have numerous opportunities to give back through our volunteer time off program, which provides full-time employees with up to 16 hours of paid volunteer time annually,” Hoxworth said.

Community focus

The company’s commitment fosters a sense of belonging and purpose, transforming Elevations into more than just a workplace. It’s also a community hub.

Elevations’ members are the heart of the business, and it prioritizes its members’ economic well-being over profit.

The credit union offers complimentary seminars, educational resources, and counseling services to help members achieve their financial goals.

While financial success is vital, the core of Elevations’ mission is service. “We exist not to sell but to serve, and we will continue to approach our work with that mindset,” Hoxworth said.

Elevations remains committed to evolving with its members’ needs as the financial landscape continues to shift.

“Our commitment to our Big Hairy Audacious Goal remains steadfast: delivering unrivaled service to every member, every time,” Hoxworth said.

“We are dedicated to offering solutions that not only meet but exceed our members’ expectations.”

Employee benefits

To keep employees happy and productive, the credit union strikes a balance between flexibility, professional development, and attractive employee benefits, while maintaining exceptional service.

“We prioritize work-life balance and competitive benefits to ensure our employees feel valued,” Hoxworth said.

The company offers:

• Hybrid work arrangements for support staff require only 50% in-office presence.
• Generous benefits package that includes paid time off, volunteer time off, and anniversary leave.
• Employee assistance program offering virtual coaching and therapy.
• Financial benefits include: a 4% match on 401(k) contributions, discounts on Elevations products and select businesses and 12 weeks paid leave for new parents.

“As an employer, we strive to make Elevations the best place our employees have ever worked, relying heavily on our culture of learning, excellence, caring and purpose,” Hoxworth said.

The workplace of tomorrow will incorporate innovative technologies designed to enhance employee productivity, said Tammy Teitscheid, the credit union’s chief people officer.

“At Elevations, our People team continuously monitors current trends, seeks employee feedback, and updates our programs and benefits to ensure they remain relevant and valuable to our staff.

Elevations plans to embrace artificial intelligence and automation this year, allowing staff to focus on more meaningful and rewarding tasks rather than repetitive ones.

“Continuous improvement is deeply embedded in our culture,” Teitscheid said.

Fostering an innovative environment enhances operational efficiency and attracts and retains top talent.

Working in Colorado enhances Elevations’ ability to serve its members effectively.

Founded in 1952 on the University of Colorado Boulder campus, the credit union established strong relationships with realtors and community organizations.

No. 1

Elevations Credit Union

Years ranked: 3
Founded: 1952
Headquarters: Boulder
Employees: 565
Locations: 20
Facts: Elevations is an award-winning Colorado financial institution with over $3 billion in assets and over 170,000 members.

1. Elevations Credit Union

2. Progressive Insurance

3. Pinnacol Assurance

4. LINX

5. Charles Schwab

6. Ibotta, Inc.

7. Edward Jones

8. Encore Electric

9. Breckenridge Grand Vacations

10. Catholic Charities of Denver

11. Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers

12. Panda Restaurant Group

13. Empower

14. DaVita, Inc.

15. AllHealth Network

16. Canvas Credit Union

17. Craig Hospital

18. GOAL Academy High School

19. Slalom

20. Vectra Bank Colorado

21. CACI International Inc

22. Encompass Health- Home Health and Hospice

23. HCA Healthcare

24. Aurora Organic Dairy

25. Primoris Renewable Energy, Inc.

26. PENN Entertainment

27. Jefferson Center For Mental Health

28. Zynex Medical

Midsize category

1. Madison & Company Properties

2. West + Main Homes

3. Bloom Healthcare

4. RE/MAX Professionals

5. Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation

6. General Air Service & Supply

7. Vivax Pros

8. Visiting Angels of Denver

9. Mortenson

10. IntraNerve Neuroscience

11. StoneAge, Inc.

12. Colorado PERA

13. Turner Construction

14. LONG Building Technologies

15. Nextworld

16. Haselden Construction

17. Home Care RN

18. Cornerstone Capital Bank

19. Donor Alliance Inc.

20. Housecall Pro

21. AIR Communities

22. G.H. Phipps Construction Companies

23. BC Services

24. Applewood Plumbing Heating & Electric

25. NEI Electric Power Engineering, Inc.

26. Galloway & Company, Inc.

27. Ulteig

28. Alchemer

29. PorchLight Real Estate Group

30. Burns & McDonnell

31. Esler Companies

32. Colorado Access

33. Griffis Residential

34. EOG Resources, Inc.

35. Biodesix

36. Delta Dental Of Colorado

37. CableLabs

38. Sonsio Vehicle Protection

39. CGI

40. Total Quality Logistics – TQL

41. Crusoe Energy Systems

42. CBIZ

43. SEMA Construction, Inc.

44. Adolfson & Peterson Construction

45. HCA Healthcare Continental Division/HCA HealthONE

46. UDR, Inc.

47. The Gallegos Corporation

48. Wiland, Inc.

49. Vantage Data Centers

50. Westwood Professional Services

51. Globus family of brands

52. Stewart Title

53. Lohmiller & Company

Small category

1. Homewatch Caregivers of North Suburban Denver and Boulder County

2. Summit Wealth Group

3. CoralTree Hospitality Group (Corporate)

4. Brighton Hospice – Denver

5. Footers Catering

6. Corcoran Perry & Co.

7. Cain Travel Group, Inc.

8. Prime Jet

9. Carlton Electric

10. Strategic Alliance Business Group

11. Xentity Corporation

12. Denver Scholarship Foundation

13. The Nakupuna Companies

14. City Light & Power, Inc

15. Vanguard Skin Specialists

16. CrossCountry Mortgage, LLC

17. CAP Logistics

18. ICAT

19. CRS Insurance Brokerage

20. Camden Property Trust

21. National Valuation Consultants Inc.

22. The Garrett Companies

23. Pella Denver and Northern Colorado

24. Muller Engineering Company Inc.

25. CCIG

26. Pinnacle Real Estate Advisors

27. Atlas Real Estate

28. Green Spoon Sales

29. ECC

30. Rand Construction Corporation

31. David Evans and Associates

32. Digible

33. Brothers Plumbing, Heating and Electric

34. American Indian College Fund

35. Greystone Technology

36. Dividend Restaurant Group

37. Simpson Housing

38. GPT Industries, LLC

39. Logical Systems

40. The RMH Group Inc.

41. Brighton Hospice

42. S3 Shared Service Solutions

43. Wavelynx

44. WilmerHale

45. LPR Construction Co

46. Walker & Dunlop, LLC

47. Enverus

48. Melco International

49. Koniag Government Services

50. DM Construction

51. Aledade, Inc.

52. COPIC

53. Sargent & Lundy

54. ERO Resources

55. Haynie & Company

56. Ascend, Inc.

57. SambaSafety

58. Climb Credit Union

59. Lifetime Home Remodeling

60. New Home Star

61. Pinyon Environmental, Inc.

62. Bibbeo Ltd

63. ezCater

64. Accuris

65. KidsCare Home Health

66. AFC Urgent Care Denver

67. ENSCO

68. Power Design Inc.

69. Thompson Thrift

“There isn’t another brokerage of our size that has this magical combination of being both agent and consumer-centered, along with the ability to be creative and nimble, all with a mission with Fair Housing at its heart,” CEO Stacie Staub said.

“Our agents tell us all the time, there’s no place that they would rather work.”

Despite growth, geographic expansion and production volume increases, West + Main maintains its culture.

“We still feel like the small indie boutique we founded over eight years ago, offering our agents a supportive and innovative full-service environment so they can focus on their clients,” Staub said

“We don’t have a formal roadmap or plans for change, but as we like to say, we’ll evaluate every opportunity. If it makes sense and will improve the lives of our agents and staff, we’ll always say yes and then figure it out.”

Keeping employees happy

Instead of building a large, traditional office space, West + Main operates several storefront locations across the Denver metro area, ski towns, and Northern and Central Colorado, allowing its agents to access any of these spaces.

“We allow our entire staff and our agents to work however, whenever, and wherever they like, and we do not plan to change this policy,” Staub said.

“We believe everyone works best when they are comfortable and can structure their work around their lives instead of the other way around.”

Real estate agencies must continue to innovate, but maybe not in the way people may anticipate.

“Real estate is a people-based, person-to-person business, and the more we can take off our agents’ plates through improved technology, the more time and energy they can pour into their clients,” she said.

“Robots are nowhere close to selling houses, and luckily, we prefer the company of humans anyway.”

No. 2

West + Main Homes

Years ranked: 7
Founded: 2017
Headquarters: Lakewood
Employees: 380
Facts: West + Main is an independently owned and operated boutique real estate company specializing in residential properties along the Front Range and mountain communities.

That’s the foundation of the Top Workplaces award. For the 14th year, employee survey company Energage has partnered with The Denver Post to honor the best places to work in Colorado.

This award can’t be bought; it has to be earned, based on employee feedback. Winners are chosen through a scientific survey process. Positive employee feedback equals recognition. Workplaces that don’t have strong feedback are excluded from the winners list.

Energage crunches the data based on a 25-question survey that takes just a few minutes to complete. The survey asks employees for their feedback on such factors as pay and benefits, direction, leadership, meaningfulness, and appreciation. Energage scores companies based on the responses.

Organizations do not pay any fees to survey employees or to earn a Top Workplaces designation. If they choose, organizations can purchase the survey data. There is no obligation for winners to purchase any product or service.

For the 2025 winners list, 4,139 organizations were asked to survey their employees, and 226 agreed to do so. Based on the survey feedback, the top 150 employers have earned recognition as Colorado Top Workplaces.

“Top Workplaces awards are a celebration of good news,” said Eric Rubino, CEO of Energage. “They exemplify the significance of a people-first workplace experience, reminding us that employees are the heart of any thriving organization.”

The winners list is intended to reflect on the state’s workforce. To qualify for Top Workplaces recognition, employers must have at least 50 workers in the state.  Survey results are valid only if 35% or more employees respond; employers with fewer than 85 employees have a higher response threshold, requiring responses from at least 30 employees.

Employers earn Top Workplaces recognition if their aggregated employees feedback score exceeds national benchmarks. Employers are grouped into similar sizes to best compare similar employee experiences. Energage has established those benchmarks based on feedback from about 30 million employees over 19 years. They are ranked within those groups based on the strength of the survey feedback.

Why might a particular employer not be on the list? Perhaps it chose not to participate, or perhaps it did and employee feedback scores were not strong enough. Energage also runs tests on survey feedback and in some cases may disqualify an organization if, for example, a high number of employees said they felt pressured to answer positively.

To participate in the 2026 Top Workplaces awards, or for more information, go to the nomination page at http://www.denverpost.com/nominate.

“Our high retention rates speak to the value we provide, from award-winning marketing and cutting-edge technology to exceptional support and training. But beyond the tools and resources, it’s our collaborative ‘we’ mindset that defines us,” said Liliana Mendez, the company’s operations manager.

“We foster a culture of teamwork, shared success, and a deep sense of community, where agents and clients alike feel supported every step of the way.”

Ambitious goals

As the real estate sector grapples with fluctuating interest rates and shifting commission structures, Madison has remained resilient.

“Madison is thriving,” Mendez said. “We’ve remained strong by staying adaptable and forward-thinking.”

Madison’s strategic goals remain ambitious. The company wants smart, sustainable growth, with a keen focus on expanding services into new markets and refining lead generation strategies.

“Our vision is clear: to grow with purpose and deliver an exceptional experience at every level,” Mendez said.

Looking forward, while technological advancements, particularly in AI, are on the rise, the essence of real estate will always remain rooted in the human touch. The firm plans to blend advanced tools with relationship-driven service, ensuring that personal connections remain integral to its operations.

“In real estate, the human touch remains irreplaceable, so we’re committed to blending technology with relationship-driven service,” Mendez said.

The need for innovation is paramount. “The industry is evolving rapidly. Staying ahead requires continuous innovation.”

Keeping employees happy

Madison is committed to the well-being of its employees.

“To retain top talent, we emphasize a supportive culture, strong leadership, professional growth, and a focus on work-life balance. Flexible work options and a strong sense of community help our agents and staff thrive.”

Madison’s multiple offices in the Denver metro area allow team members to enjoy a healthy work-life balance.

“Our employees truly embody the Colorado spirit,” Mendez said, reflecting on the values of outdoor living and community engagement that the state champions.

To attract and retain top talent, Madison prioritizes a supportive culture, strong leadership, and opportunities for professional growth. Flexible work arrangements and a shared sense of community empower staff to thrive in their roles and maintain a balanced lifestyle.

“Talent attraction is always competitive, but our strong culture, reputation, and benefits give us a unique advantage in recruiting top agents and staff without relying solely on higher compensation,” Mendez said.

No. 1

Madison & Co. Properties

Years ranked: 12
Founded: 2008
Headquarters: Greenwood Village
Employees: 160
Locations: 3
Facts: Madison & Co. focuses on providing broker support, a collaborative team environment, and an extensive mentoring program.