NRG Systems - NRG Systems Wins Psychologically Healthy Workplace Award

Hinesburg, VT–NRG Systems, a global manufacturer of wind measuring systems, received the 2004 Psychologically Healthy Workplace Award for small businesses from the Vermont Psychological Association (VPA). Company CEO/President Jan Blittersdorf received the award from the VPA's executive director, Rosanna Czermak, at a recent company-wide staff meeting.

"We are honored to be chosen for this award," said Jan Blittersdorf. "Our company would not be successful without the dedication of this great group of employees. And it’s very important that our employees share in that success and are rewarded and recognized for their efforts."

According to the VPA, NRG Systems was chosen because of their overall workforce practices and benefits and the emphasis they have placed on a creating a healthy, green workplace.

NRG's compensation package includes a salary that is supplemented by monthly cash profit sharing and a generous benefits package. Benefits include a cafeteria plan that gives employees flexibility, a retirement plan that features an NRG matching component, a six-week paid sabbatical after 10 years of service (and every five years thereafter), plus annual financial incentives to help employees make energy efficiency improvements in their homes and purchase a hybrid vehicle.

NRG's recently completed manufacturing facility in Hinesburg is energy efficient, powered primarily by renewable energy and makes extensive use of earth- and human-friendly products. Numerous windows and skylights provide ample natural light and ventilation and give employees outdoor views from every work area. Lush green plants and low- or no-VOC-emitting stains, paints, adhesives and flooring protects indoor air quality. A beautiful cafe and commons area features a double kitchen and a 3-story stone fireplace to provide a warm and inviting meeting space. An endless lap pool and a fitness area on the third floor provide an opportunity for employees to exercise during the day. NRG’s building recently received a gold LEED rating from the U.S. Green Building Council for its outstanding environmental and energy-saving design, making it one of four industrial facilities in the world and the first building in Vermont to receive this designation. LEED, Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, is the national rating system for high performance (green) buildings.

The Psychologically Healthy Workplace award was created to recognize businesses and organization that have demonstrated a commitment to the psychological health and well-being of their employees. According to the VPA, the benefits of a healthy workplace include increased productivity and employee retention rates, lower absenteeism, and recruiting advantages, resulting in a better, less stressed workplace with employees who are more satisfied in their jobs.

NRG Systems, founded in 1982 by David Blittersdorf, manufactures wind energy measurement systems for the global wind industry. Its product line includes complete wind assessment systems, towers, instruments, sensors and accessories. NRG products can be found on every continent in more than 100 countries, serving electric utilities, wind farm developers, research institutes, government agencies, universities and homeowners.

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