Quick Contact

AHT Named 2026 Employer of Choice

Advanced Heat Treat Corp. (AHT) was selected as the Waterloo-Cedar Falls Courier's "Employer of Choice," an award also won in 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2018 and 2017.

posted On Tuesday, September 8, 2026 in Press Releases

Advanced Heat Treat Corp.: A Culture that Cares

Employer of ChoiceAt Advanced Heat Treat Corp. (AHT), being an “Employer of Choice” means more than just offering competitive benefits. It means creating a workplace where employees feel valued, supported and respected – not only for the work they do, but for who they are outside of work as well.

That philosophy is reflected in how AHT employees show up for one another during difficult moments, everyday accomplishments and everything in between.

One example is the AHT Cares Program, a personal way for coworkers and the company to show support when an employee is facing a medical procedure, family emergency or other challenging circumstance. What makes the program especially meaningful is not simply what goes into a care package, but the message behind it: you are part of this team, and we are thinking about you.

One AHT manager shared what it has been like to personally deliver AHT Cares Bags: “When an employee is going through a difficult time, AHT puts together a care bag for the employee and their family. The bag might include a meal for the family or a blanket and a note to let them know that AHT cares about them. During the past couple of years, I have had the opportunity to deliver a bag to a few of my teammates. It is a great feeling to let them know that we are thinking of them and truly care about their well-being.”

AHT Cares BagA recipient of the AHT Cares Bag added, “It truly meant a lot to me during a very tough time. I felt deeply cared for by our team and the company.”

That same spirit of caring for one another is also reflected in AHT's Above & Beyond program, which gives employees an opportunity to recognize coworkers who have done something extra to help their team.

The reasons for recognition can be big or small – working an extra shift when help is needed, taking initiative on a project, lending a hand with an employee event or stepping up to help a coworker. Employees who are recognized receive a gift card along with a handwritten note mailed to their home.

Above & Beyond gives employees a way to say, “I noticed what you did, and it mattered.” It also reinforces a culture where employees are encouraged to recognize the contributions of the people working alongside them.

AHT supports employees in other ways, too, including benefits designed to provide greater flexibility and make room for life outside of work.

AHT’s new Birthday PTO gives employees a dedicated paid day off to celebrate their birthday. While it may seem like a simple benefit, it reflects a larger commitment to recognizing employees as individuals and encouraging them to make time for the moments that matter.

One employee commented, “(It’s a) fun perk – no more working on your birthday!”

AHT volunteering with Habitat for HumanityEmployees can also earn Volunteer PTO, additional paid time off specifically for volunteering in their communities. This benefit allows them to participate without having to use their personal vacation time. AHT employees have used the benefit to support organizations and events including the Volunteer Center of Cedar Valley, Habitat for Humanity, My Waterloo Days, Fairbank Island Days, Battle of Waterloo and more.

Each of these programs serves a different purpose, but together they reflect the same philosophy: people have lives beyond their jobs, people want to know their contributions are appreciated, and a great workplace should recognize both.

By finding meaningful ways to celebrate employees, recognize people who go above and beyond, support those going through difficult times and provide flexibility for life outside of work, AHT continues to build a culture based on trust, appreciation and genuine care. Being named an Employer of Choice is a reflection of that culture.

For AHT, creating a great place to work is not simply about what happens during the workday. It is about celebrating with employees during the good moments, supporting them through the difficult ones and creating a workplace where people know they matter.

Interested in joining the AHT team? View open job opportunities at www.ahtjobs.com

  1. awards
  2. press release