Pros
Great place for junior engineers to gain experience and exposure to engineering projects. The company relies heavily on young and less-experienced engineers, which helps keep costs competitive and improve profitability.
One notable aspect of the company culture is the extensive use of AI tools. ChatGPT is officially recognized and encouraged as an organizational tool. Junior engineers are often encouraged to use ChatGPT to analyze client specifications, vendor documents, and technical information to assist in preparing engineering deliverables and detailed design documentation.
While this approach can improve efficiency and accelerate learning, it also places significant responsibility on engineers to independently verify the accuracy and technical validity of AI-generated content before incorporating it into project deliverables.
Cons
Favoritism is a word that unfortunately prevails at Audubon. For example, there are cases where employees work 100% remotely while others are held to different standards. A ln active movie actress and play writer with active IMDB is given 100% full time job ! The company culture appears to be heavily influenced by long-time employees and established groups, making it difficult for new professionals to integrate and advance.
The turnover rate is also concerning. More than 20 employees were laid off within their first year of employment, creating uncertainty and putting pressure on managers, especially when employees hired by a particular supervisor are later targeted for workforce reductions.
In my experience, the HR department was not particularly effective in addressing employee concerns and seemed more focused on company image and promotional activities than on employee engagement and retention.
The company relies heavily on younger engineers and personnel in Bogotá to support U.S. projects at a lower cost. AI tools such as ChatGPT are actively encouraged and used to assist with engineering documentation and project deliverables. While AI can improve efficiency, it should not replace proper engineering judgment, technical expertise, and thorough review processes.
Overall, Audubon can provide project experience, but the work environment, favoritism, turnover, and management practices may not be suitable for everyone.