ST. JOSEPH, Mich. – United Federal Credit Union (United) has been ranked in the top ten of the 2025 Top 100 Workplaces in North America by Inspiring Workplaces Group, in association with Employera, at an exclusive event in Chicago.
In addition to securing a spot in the top ten overall rankings, United was also recognized among the top five in the large business category and received best-in-class certificates for excellence in key areas of building a people-first culture, including purpose and values, leadership, employee wellbeing, employee voice, and overall employee experience.
L to R: Jodie Kitchell, Matt Orlando, and Brittany Grasley receive United’s 2025 Top 100 Inspiring Workplaces in North America award.
Unlike other awards which rely on completing a survey, entrants to the Inspiring Workplaces Awards were asked to provide proof of their investment in people by completing the entry form consisting of the six key elements IW Group believes are fundamental to creating a PeopleFirst culture, and by extension an Inspiring Workplace.
“United Federal Credit Union’s dedication to cultivating a workplace that genuinely embodies the spirit of ‘people helping people’ is both admirable and inspiring,” an independent judge commented. “Your submission showcases a well-rounded and deeply thoughtful approach to creating a culture where every member of the team feels valued, heard, and empowered to grow.”
United has the distinction of being the only credit union selected and the highest ranked financial institution on the 2025 list. This is the credit union’s second consecutive year to be named as a Top 100 Inspiring Workplace in North America.
“I couldn’t be prouder of Team United for earning such distinguished recognition,” said United President and CEO Terry O’Rourke. “Every day, our employees go the extra mile to support our members, uplift our communities, and care for one another. Their unwavering dedication, positive spirit, and commitment to service are again being recognized on a such a big stage. It’s easy to speak about values—but living them takes exceptional effort. Team United exemplifies that effort in every way.”
According to Inspiring Workplaces Group, the quality of submissions this year truly elevated the standard, marking it as the strongest ever witnessed by the independent judging panel. This reflects a significant commitment from business leaders to prioritize their people and reap the well-deserved rewards.
Matt Manners, Founder, The Inspiring Workplaces Group, commented: “As Inspiring Workplaces marks its 10th anniversary, we’re proud to recognize organizations that are setting the gold standard for PeopleFirst cultures. This isn’t just a feel-good approach, it’s a fundamental business strategy. With AI reshaping the way we work and live, companies that continue to prioritize profit over people may find themselves facing short-term wins but long-term setbacks. PeopleFirst isn’t optional. It’s essential.”
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About United
United Federal Credit Union has served its Members since 1949 by helping them to build a sound financial future. United consists of more than 194,000 Member/owners worldwide and manages assets in excess of $4.0 billion. Its corporate office and main branch are in St. Joseph, Mich., with additional branches in Arkansas, Indiana, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, Ohio and Pennsylvania. Federally insured by NCUA. Equal opportunity lender. Equal housing lender. For more information visit UnitedFCU.com.
About The Inspiring Workplaces Group
Inspiring Workplaces is a global organization on a mission to help businesses build, prove, and celebrate truly PeopleFirst cultures. Believing that the greatest force in business is people, Inspiring Workplaces champions cultures where belief, belonging and confidence in the future empower individuals to thrive.
Through its core programs: The Inspiring Workplaces Awards, Certified PeopleFirst™ and the free Inspiring Workplaces Community — the organization celebrates, certifies and connects leaders committed to creating environments where people feel seen, valued, and prepared for the future of work.
In a world where workplaces shape lives, Inspiring Workplaces exists to spotlight those who lead with purpose, because inspiring cultures don’t just transform business, they change the world.
Learn more at: www.inspiring-workplaces.com