Pros
I’ve been a PGE employee for more than eleven years, having the opportunity to work in both Corporate IT and Transmission & Distribution. And COVID-19 is by far the strangest work experience I’ve ever had. As everyone knows, the news is full of stories about companies facing challenges keeping their employees safe or, frankly, just behaving badly, and how employees are concerned for their safety. Even practicing social isolation I’ve had the opportunity to speak with friends, family, and neighbors. The conversation always turns to our shared common situation. During these conversations, and knowing that I work for PGE, I’m thanked for working to keep the power on (though honestly, that is more due to our great front-line employees) and asked how PGE is handling the pandemic… Is PGE providing a safe environment? Have there been layoffs? What about the mental health of employees? Does PGE require everyone to show up at the office. Are managers communicating? When I first answered these questions, it dawned on me how well PGE management was handling these challenging issues. Many people are amazed that PGE is so far ahead of the curve. I tell them (with just a hint of pride) how my immediate manager keeps our team working together and focused on moving projects forward. How she’s set up multiple recurring staff meetings each week to keep us informed and to listen to and address our issues. And she hosts a weekly “Virtual Happy Hour” that is surprisingly well attended. The health check stations in each of our offices. The distribution of masks (including FR rated masks!). The tools provided for those who can work from home. They all add up to a company that is focused not only on getting the job done but doing right by their employees.
Cons
LIke with any company there are always frustrations. Mature employees always look at the bigger picture and realize these frustrations lead to opportunities to improve processes and procedures with just a little effort!