Learning & Development
Learning & Development at GHA: Learn, Grow, Succeed
SUPPORTING EMPLOYEES FROM DAY ONE
At GHA, we prioritize seamless integration into our team for all new employees. Our orientation program introduces essential policies, benefits, and tools to help employees feel prepared and confident in their roles. Supervisors work with new hires, providing the tools and guidance needed to excel in their positions.
GHA offers flexible work arrangements, including remote work, hybrid schedules, and adaptable working hours. These options promote work-life balance while enabling employees to maintain productivity and achieve their professional goals.
As employees advance in their careers or begin to prepare for retirement, GHA provides opportunities to contribute to succession planning initiatives. By mentoring and preparing internal talent for leadership roles, retiring employees help ensure GHA’s continued success.
GHA UNIVERSITY (GHA U)
GHA University is the centerpiece of our commitment to employee growth and professional development. Designed to empower employees at all stages of their careers, GHA U offers a robust and accessible platform for learning, skill-building, and advancement. Through tailored resources and innovative training, GHA U reflects GHA’s dedication to fostering a culture of continuous improvement and collaboration. GHA U offers:
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- Tailored Learning Paths: Personalized courses aligned with individual roles and goals.
- Skill Development Programs: Training in technical, leadership, and industry-specific topics.
- Interactive Learning Modules: Real-world case studies and tools developed with input from experts.
- Progress Tracking and Recognition: Tools for employees and supervisors to monitor learning achievements.
Built to adapt and innovate, GHA U evolves to support the needs of our employees and the industry. The GHA U Content Creation Team, comprising experts from across the organization, ensures the courses are engaging, relevant, and aligned with both employee goals and organizational priorities. By integrating learning opportunities into every stage of the employee lifecycle, GHA U strengthens GHA’s mission to develop talent, inspire innovation, and achieve shared success.
PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATIONS, LICENSES, AND CONTINUING EDUCATION
GHA supports employees and interns in achieving professional milestones through targeted training programs.
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- Technical Training: Employees can enhance their skills through in-house courses tailored to their roles. These programs cover essential topics such as construction, surveying, GIS, EOPC preparation, and CAD, equipping participants with the practical knowledge needed to excel in their careers.
- Exam Preparation: Interns and employees preparing for the Professional Engineer (PE) license benefit from specialized support, including resources and guidance to help them achieve this critical career milestone.
LEARNING PROGRAMS
We promote ongoing learning by providing employees with opportunities to expand their knowledge and skills throughout their careers. Our learning and development initiatives offer:
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- Instructor-Led & Web-Based Training: Structured programs to accommodate varying schedules and learning styles.
- Development & Networking Opportunities: Attendance at industry conferences, seminars, and events to stay current with trends and best practices.
- Professional & Industry Memberships: Access to resources, training, and networking opportunities that align with employees’ goals.
- Mentorship Programs: Guidance and knowledge-sharing through GHA’s Women’s Employee Resource Group (WERG) and the Emerging Professionals Network (EPN).
PERFORMANCE REVIEWS
We emphasize continuous communication and feedback between employees and supervisors to align individual goals with GHA’s organizational strategy. Regular performance evaluations focus on:
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- Goal Setting: Establishing clear, measurable objectives that guide employees’ contributions and development.
- Expectations Communication: Helping employees understand their roles and responsibilities within the organization.
- Ongoing Feedback: Supporting progress and addressing challenges through regular check-ins.
- Outcome Assessment: Reviewing achievements and areas for improvement to guide future growth.
INTERNAL GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES
GHA recognizes that career progression isn’t always linear. Our career lattice approach allows employees to grow in multiple directions, exploring new roles and skills. GHA U and mentorship programs play a key role in supporting this flexibility, ensuring employees have the tools to thrive in diverse career paths.
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Emerging Professionals Network
Unlock Your Potential with GHA's Emerging Professionals Network
The Emerging Professionals Network (EPN) is a premier group at GHA that brings together employees who are in the early stages of their careers, providing a supportive platform for professional and personal growth. Our aim is to expand your network, foster connections with colleagues from different departments, and facilitate open communication with experienced staff members. Through our inclusive community, you’ll have access to valuable resources, mentorship opportunities, and a vibrant network of professionals passionate about civil engineering.
ENGAGEMENT
EPN members have the chance to participate in a variety of engaging programs and events that promote collaboration, learning, and personal development. These initiatives are designed to enhance your knowledge, broaden your horizons, and foster your passion for the field of civil engineering. Engaging social events offer a relaxed and enjoyable setting for networking, building relationships, and connecting with colleagues.
“By joining the EPN, you’ll have the opportunity to share your voice and gain valuable insights from experienced professionals. Our events are designed to foster connections among staff at all levels, allowing you to collaborate with co-owners you may not typically work with. It’s a chance to broaden your network and play a key role in shaping the future of our organization.”
-Hannah Domanski, HR Specialist
CAREER DAYS
The annual Career Day program offered by the EPN provides local high school students with a unique opportunity to spend a day alongside our Engineering Professionals. This immersive experience offers valuable insights into various branches of the civil engineering field and allows participants to tackle design challenges and visit construction sites, providing inspiration and firsthand exposure to the world of civil engineering.
“Being part of the EPN has accelerated my professional growth. The connections I’ve made and the insights I’ve gained from co-owners at all levels have enriched my perspective and enabled me to contribute more effectively to our organization. The EPN is about being part of a group that drives positive change within our company and our communities.”
-Scott Yandell, Civil Engineer
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
At GHA, we are dedicated to nurturing emerging talent and providing a supportive community for your professional growth. The EPN is just one of the ways we foster collaboration, promote learning, and create a platform for you to thrive. Join the EPN and be part of a vibrant community that empowers you to make meaningful connections, expand your horizons, and build a successful career in civil engineering.
With the EPN, you’ll gain access to mentorship programs, professional development initiatives, and meaningful networking opportunities. These resources are carefully designed to foster your passion for civil engineering and cultivate a culture of integrity, dedication, and excellence. Our commitment to your success is evident in the EPN’s commitment to empowering emerging professionals like you to achieve their career goals and make a lasting impact in the field. Join us and unlock your potential with the support of a dynamic community of driven individuals who share your passion for civil engineering.
JOIN OUR TEAM
Internships
Internships at GHA are a career-launching experience. Collaborate with industry experts on impactful projects, gain professional mentorship, and build a valuable network. With GHA, gain the real-world experience and mentorship you need to excel in the engineering field.
New Graduates
GHA is committed to shaping future leaders in the field. Through consistent mentorship and abundant career growth opportunities, many have found long-term professional homes at GHA. Join us in becoming the next generation of leaders in civil engineering.
Experienced Professionals
At GHA, we create an environment where experienced engineers, technicians, and support staff can realize their full potential. With diverse projects and a dedicated team, we encourage both professional growth and personal satisfaction. Join us at GHA to shape the future of civil engineering.
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Employee Owned
GHA is an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) Company
In 2018, GHA transitioned to an ESOP organization. This signifies that every member of GHA’s staff possesses an owner’s stake in enhancing our services and the value they deliver to our clients. Beyond the financial benefits for all GHA Co-Owners, we deeply believe in the contributions each one of us can make through our experience, insight, and dedication. This belief drives a variety of employee opportunities, always anchored in the understanding that we, the Co-Owners, possess a distinctive voice that demands recognition.
WHAT IS AN ESOP?
At Gewalt Hamilton Associates, our team members are more than just employees; they are vested stakeholders in the company through our Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). An ESOP is a specialized retirement plan that operates through a trust, a distinct legal entity that acquires, holds, and manages company stock for the benefit of its participants. This unique structure allows GHA co-owners to receive company shares as a portion of their compensation, providing them with a vested interest in the company.
HOW DOES AN ESOP WORK?
Much like a 401(k) plan, an ESOP provides a framework for long-term retirement savings. However, there are key differences. In our ESOP, employees are not required to contribute financially to acquire company shares. Instead, Gewalt Hamilton Associates takes on the responsibility of making all contributions. This reflects our dedication to investing in the people who make our success possible.
The value of each ESOP account is directly linked to the stock price of Gewalt Hamilton Associates, rather than external market securities. This ensures that as the company continues to grow and thrive, so does the financial well-being of our team members. To maintain transparency and integrity, the value of our company stock is assessed annually by an independent third-party appraiser. Any increase in the stock value is then equitably redistributed to the ESOP beneficiaries—our valued owners-employees.
By implementing an ESOP, our goal is to nurture a culture where excellence and innovation are the norm, as every team member has a direct stake in the company’s overall performance and success.
BENEFITS OF PARTICIPATING IN AN ESOP
Participating in an ESOP offers numerous advantages that go beyond traditional retirement plans:
Alignment of Interests: With a stake in the company, team members are naturally motivated to contribute to its success, thereby creating a cohesive and focused work environment.
Financial Security: The ESOP provides an additional layer of financial stability for retirement, supplementing other retirement savings plans you may have.
Tax Benefits: ESOPs come with certain tax advantages, both for the company and for the employee beneficiaries, making it a financially prudent choice for long-term planning.
Shared Success: As the company grows, the value of the ESOP shares also increases, allowing co-owners to directly benefit from the company’s success.
ESOP ADVISORY COUNCIL
The GHA Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) Advisory Council is not just a committee, but a pivotal component in shaping a robust culture of ownership, engagement, and professional advancement among GHA’s employee-owners. Acting as a key element within GHA’s ownership structure, the council plays an essential role in both sustaining and evolving a shared vision for the future trajectory of the company.
At GHA, each division is represented on the council, ensuring an approach where every opportunity is explored and every concern is addressed. We take pride in our inclusive culture, and as a testament to this, all GHA Co-Owners are invited to serve on the ESOP Advisory Council for a term. Those who have taken up this opportunity unanimously agree that it offers a unique platform to actively shape GHA’s future.
Our culture at GHA is deeply rooted in a shared journey toward the future, with each of us as Co-Owners playing a pivotal role. Throughout the year, we have numerous celebrations that underscore this collective spirit. The Annual Stock Reveal is a moment we all eagerly await each year. The dedicated members of the ESOP Advisory Council pour their energy into making this event memorable, ensuring not just insightful discussions but also great food and team-building fun.
COMPANY CULTURE
The ESOP model inherently encourages a culture of collective responsibility and mutual respect. Team members are not just employees but co-owners who have a vested interest in the quality of work and solutions we provide to our clients. This sense of ownership creates a work environment where integrity and excellence are not just expected but are a natural outcome of our company culture.
By integrating an ESOP into our benefits package, Gewalt Hamilton Associates aims to create a workplace where everyone’s contributions are recognized and rewarded, and where each team member benefits directly from our collective success.
Employee Benefits
GHA: Employee Ownership, Competitive Pay, Work-Life Balance
Paid Time Off/Floating Holidays/Holidays – Our program provides the flexibility for paid time off, whether vacation or illness, as well as seven holidays.
401(k) Retirement Plan/Profit Sharing Program – The 401(k) plan provides the flexibility to successfully plan for retirement. This program offers a diverse selection of investment options. GHA provides a 50% match up to 6% of earnings.
Medical Insurance – GHA offers a high deductible/HSA medical plan with Blue Cross Blue Shield.
Dental Insurance – A full-coverage dental plan is offered.
Vision Insurance – Vision plan is available.
Flexible Spending Accounts – Through our flexible spending program, employees can set aside pre-tax dollars to pay for unreimbursed medical, dental, vision costs and dependent care.
Short-Term Disability Insurance – In the event of an injury or illness, GHA offers short-term disability plans that provide a portion of the employee’s pre-disability earnings. The company contributes 100% of the premium.
Long-Term Disability Insurance – In the event of a prolonged injury or illness, Gewalt Hamilton offers long-term disability plans that provide a portion of the employee’s pre-disability earnings. The company contributes 100% of the premium.
Life Insurance/Accidental Death and Dismemberment – Our life insurance program includes a $50,000 policy for each full time employee. The company contributes 100% of the premiums.
Flexible Work Schedules – GHA understands that personal and family needs may require you to have flexible hours. We will work with you to establish a work schedule that meets both your needs and the company’s needs.
Maternity and Paternity Leave – GHA offers employees a generous maternity and paternity leave plan.
This listing is a general overview of some of the benefits offered. Detailed plan descriptions will be provided during the hiring process.
GHA is committed to providing equal employment opportunity to all applicants and employees in accordance with all applicable equal opportunity and affirmative action laws, directives and regulations of Federal, State and Local governing bodies.
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Community Involvement
Community Involvement: Creating a Positive Impact
Members of the GHA team serve as Board Members or Trustees for various local government agencies. We actively promote leadership within our team, encouraging them to contribute to the communities where we operate. Each year, our employees dedicate numerous hours to community service, exemplifying our commitment to civic responsibility and engagement.
Introduce a Girl to Engineering
GHA has supported and hosted ‘Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day’ events to local students. We hope to inspire girls’ future, so they learn they have a place in engineering. Students participated at GHA’s corporate headquarters in engineering-related activities, shared their knowledge, and were introduced to engineering mentors! For more information, visit discovere.org
Adopt-a-Highway Events
Twice a year, GHA team members and their families unite for our Adopt-A-Highway initiative, enhancing the cleanliness and safety of our local highways. We proudly partner with Lake County Division of Transportation and Kansas Department of Transportation. These efforts reflect our commitment to improving our local environments. Visit LakeCountyIL.gov or ksdot.gov for more.
Friends of the Chicago River
The GHA team collaborates with the Friends of the Chicago River at North Park in Lincolnshire. Our team members participate in preserving our rivers and deepening our connection with the natural environment. Our efforts aim to ensure this remarkable natural resource stays clean for future generations and the diverse wildlife that inhabits it. For more information, visit ChicagoRiver.org.
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
GHA hosts an annual Grilling for St. Jude’s event. Our team members unite to grill a selection of delightful dishes, all with the purpose of supporting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. This esteemed institution is pivotal in combating childhood diseases, and our ongoing efforts resonate with its mission. We take pride in contributing to such a significant cause. For more on the transformative work of St. Jude’s, visit stjude.org
Cancer Wellness Center Annual Walk
GHA consistently supports the Cancer Wellness Center’s Stepping up to Wellness Run/Walk. This event epitomizes our dedication to promoting health and wellness in the community. Our team actively participates, championing the cause and raising awareness for cancer wellness. Through our involvement, we aim to amplify the message of resilience, hope, and collective strength. For more information visit cancerwellness.org
Northern Illinois Food Bank
GHA proudly partners with the Northern Illinois Food Bank. Our dedicated team volunteers to pack and sort food, aiding families across Northern Illinois. This collaboration reflects our dedication to community engagement and our resolve to address food insecurity. We remain focused on contributing to meaningful community initiatives. For more information about the NIFB, visit their site: solvehungertoday.org