Tag: 3BL

Did you know that Henkel North America employs approximately 8,000 employees in more than 70 sites across the U.S. and Canada? Collectively, these sites support two business units: Adhesive Technologies and Consumer Brands.

Our #AViewFrom series features select locations, sharing information and facts about our sites across Henkel North America.

Take a stroll down the grocery store aisle, and you’ll see numerous products that use water-based adhesives that are produced at Henkel’s Greenville, South Carolina manufacturing facility. If an e-tailer package is delivered to your front door, you also benefit from adhesive-related products manufactured in this facility. From tissue to paper towels and bottle labels to Amazon® padded mailers, adhesive materials made by the team at this site are in all of these products and likely part of your life. Learn more in this segment of #AViewFrom: Greenville, SC.

Henkel’s Greenville, SC operation runs 24 hours a day, five days a week, with three production shifts, making water-based adhesives and unique packaging formulations that are used for tissue and paper towel production, bottle labeling, food package sealing, and, perhaps most famously, durable impact-resistant – yet recyclable – padded mailers for the world’s largest e-tailers. Within this 82,000 sq. ft. facility, the tight-knit group of 46 employees manufactures EPIX® brand packaging chemistries, AQUENCE® brand tissue and towel adhesives, and LOCTITE® brand materials that seal food packages and secure paper and foil labels to glass and plastic bottles. Greenville supports Henkel Adhesive Technologies’ packaging and consumer goods business units, shipping products worldwide from this southeastern USA-based site.

“Our team is so focused and passionate about our work, ensuring we consistently produce the highest-quality materials.”

Justin Mayberry, Plant Operations Manager

Over 500 adhesive products are made at the Greenville plant, and manufacturing that many distinct formulations takes tremendous knowledge, dedication, and teamwork. This group of employees – many who have worked here for over 20 years – is extraordinary; they support each other, take great pride in a job well done, and have fun together! The results speak for themselves. It’s why we hold an incredible safety record and enthusiastically take on products that outgrow other facilities.”

Constructed in 1969, the Greenville facility joined the Henkel network in 2004 as part of the company’s purchase of Sovereign Specialty Chemicals. Within the plant, four manufacturing cells house 21 kettles that, in 2024, produced 36 million kgs of material.  Like all Henkel operations, sustainability is imperative, and Greenville’s NoWa (no waste) project is making significant progress toward resource conservation. Water consumption has been cut in half, water reuse programs are in place, the transition to 100% LED lighting is underway, and digital sensors are installed throughout the facility to monitor and analyze energy use to drive efficiency. Greenville is also a zero-waste-to-landfill facility, diverting nearly all its production waste away from landfill sites for reuse or energy conversion.

Safety is the top priority for employees at Greenville, and the team takes great pride in the facility’s excellent safety performance and culture.

“We want everyone to go home exactly the way they came to work, which is why the plant’s safety culture is so vital.”

Cristen Duenas, Safety, Health and Environment Manager

“The engagement in safety protocols is not a top-down directive; it is a mindset that our entire organization embraces because we sincerely care about each other and this plant’s success.”

COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP

In an initiative that delivers sustainability and community enrichment, Henkel’s Greenville plant has partnered with a local non-profit to repurpose the site’s wooden pallets.

“Instead of disposing of pallets or spending fuel transporting them far from our site, we donate them to an animal refuge in our community called Izzie’s Pond,” explains Jackson Tarleton, Sustainability Specialist.

Partnering to Recycle Pallets

The Greenville plant, and the nearby Enoree, South Carolina adhesives facility, donate used wooden pallets to Izzie’s Pond, a nonprofit that sells some of the pallets to help fund its wildlife rescue and rehabilitation activities and uses others to house wildlife rescues. Henkel’s donation of items that would otherwise be treated as waste has enabled Izzie’s Pond to maintain the critical medical care to over 500 animals injured or orphaned while minimizing the need to dispose of the pallets as landfill waste.

“Some of the pallets are used to construct enclosures that house rescued animals until they are rehabilitated and can return to the wild. It’s gratifying to be a part of this effort, where animals — and our pallets! — get a second chance.”

Jackson Tarleton, Sustainability Specialist

CULTURE AND CAREER

Greenville’s small size is advantageous for employees eager to learn, move within departments, and gain valuable, marketable knowledge.

“Willingness to embrace new challenges offered at our Greenville site has led to new opportunities, and I’m a prime example.”

Kory Anderson, Materials Coordinator

Kory Anderson came to Henkel after beginning his career in finance. “I started in quality control and am now the materials coordinator. I’m also part of our culture-based safety and sustainability teams and have even participated in some plant communications projects. There’s no lack of opportunity to upskill!”

Greenville coworkers’ compassion and caring for each other is palpable; colleagues describe each other as family. Robert Johnson, a production operator affectionately known as ‘RJ’, is one of them. After a medical incident at home led to emergency surgery, RJ was deeply touched – but not surprised – by what he witnessed following his procedure.

“When I woke up, the plant management team was by my bedside. I have no immediate family in this area, but I have my Henkel family. The sincere support of everyone at this site is heartwarming and makes going to work every day a joy.”

Robert Johnson, Production Operator

Did you know that Henkel North America employs approximately 8,000 employees in more than 70 sites across the U.S. and Canada? Collectively, these sites support two business units: Adhesive Technologies and Consumer Brands.

Our #AViewFrom series features select locations, sharing information and facts about our sites across Henkel North America.

Take a stroll down the grocery store aisle, and you’ll see numerous products that use water-based adhesives that are produced at Henkel’s Greenville, South Carolina manufacturing facility. If an e-tailer package is delivered to your front door, you also benefit from adhesive-related products manufactured in this facility. From tissue to paper towels and bottle labels to Amazon® padded mailers, adhesive materials made by the team at this site are in all of these products and likely part of your life. Learn more in this segment of #AViewFrom: Greenville, SC.

Henkel’s Greenville, SC operation runs 24 hours a day, five days a week, with three production shifts, making water-based adhesives and unique packaging formulations that are used for tissue and paper towel production, bottle labeling, food package sealing, and, perhaps most famously, durable impact-resistant – yet recyclable – padded mailers for the world’s largest e-tailers. Within this 82,000 sq. ft. facility, the tight-knit group of 46 employees manufactures EPIX® brand packaging chemistries, AQUENCE® brand tissue and towel adhesives, and LOCTITE® brand materials that seal food packages and secure paper and foil labels to glass and plastic bottles. Greenville supports Henkel Adhesive Technologies’ packaging and consumer goods business units, shipping products worldwide from this southeastern USA-based site.

“Our team is so focused and passionate about our work, ensuring we consistently produce the highest-quality materials.”

Justin Mayberry, Plant Operations Manager

Over 500 adhesive products are made at the Greenville plant, and manufacturing that many distinct formulations takes tremendous knowledge, dedication, and teamwork. This group of employees – many who have worked here for over 20 years – is extraordinary; they support each other, take great pride in a job well done, and have fun together! The results speak for themselves. It’s why we hold an incredible safety record and enthusiastically take on products that outgrow other facilities.”

Constructed in 1969, the Greenville facility joined the Henkel network in 2004 as part of the company’s purchase of Sovereign Specialty Chemicals. Within the plant, four manufacturing cells house 21 kettles that, in 2024, produced 36 million kgs of material.  Like all Henkel operations, sustainability is imperative, and Greenville’s NoWa (no waste) project is making significant progress toward resource conservation. Water consumption has been cut in half, water reuse programs are in place, the transition to 100% LED lighting is underway, and digital sensors are installed throughout the facility to monitor and analyze energy use to drive efficiency. Greenville is also a zero-waste-to-landfill facility, diverting nearly all its production waste away from landfill sites for reuse or energy conversion.

Safety is the top priority for employees at Greenville, and the team takes great pride in the facility’s excellent safety performance and culture.

“We want everyone to go home exactly the way they came to work, which is why the plant’s safety culture is so vital.”

Cristen Duenas, Safety, Health and Environment Manager

“The engagement in safety protocols is not a top-down directive; it is a mindset that our entire organization embraces because we sincerely care about each other and this plant’s success.”

COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP

In an initiative that delivers sustainability and community enrichment, Henkel’s Greenville plant has partnered with a local non-profit to repurpose the site’s wooden pallets.

“Instead of disposing of pallets or spending fuel transporting them far from our site, we donate them to an animal refuge in our community called Izzie’s Pond,” explains Jackson Tarleton, Sustainability Specialist.

Partnering to Recycle Pallets

The Greenville plant, and the nearby Enoree, South Carolina adhesives facility, donate used wooden pallets to Izzie’s Pond, a nonprofit that sells some of the pallets to help fund its wildlife rescue and rehabilitation activities and uses others to house wildlife rescues. Henkel’s donation of items that would otherwise be treated as waste has enabled Izzie’s Pond to maintain the critical medical care to over 500 animals injured or orphaned while minimizing the need to dispose of the pallets as landfill waste.

“Some of the pallets are used to construct enclosures that house rescued animals until they are rehabilitated and can return to the wild. It’s gratifying to be a part of this effort, where animals — and our pallets! — get a second chance.”

Jackson Tarleton, Sustainability Specialist

CULTURE AND CAREER

Greenville’s small size is advantageous for employees eager to learn, move within departments, and gain valuable, marketable knowledge.

“Willingness to embrace new challenges offered at our Greenville site has led to new opportunities, and I’m a prime example.”

Kory Anderson, Materials Coordinator

Kory Anderson came to Henkel after beginning his career in finance. “I started in quality control and am now the materials coordinator. I’m also part of our culture-based safety and sustainability teams and have even participated in some plant communications projects. There’s no lack of opportunity to upskill!”

Greenville coworkers’ compassion and caring for each other is palpable; colleagues describe each other as family. Robert Johnson, a production operator affectionately known as ‘RJ’, is one of them. After a medical incident at home led to emergency surgery, RJ was deeply touched – but not surprised – by what he witnessed following his procedure.

“When I woke up, the plant management team was by my bedside. I have no immediate family in this area, but I have my Henkel family. The sincere support of everyone at this site is heartwarming and makes going to work every day a joy.”

Robert Johnson, Production Operator

By Doug Segrest

Nadia Hamilton was just 8 years old when she decided she was going to help her younger brother with his morning routine.

Troy wasn’t a procrastinator getting ready for school. Instead, Nadia quickly realized, he was overwhelmed.

Growing up I noticed Troy struggled with day-to-day tasks.

“Troy is autistic,” Nadia Hamilton told a group of Regions associates gathered for Banking for Everyone, part of a celebration of Autism Awareness Month. “Growing up I noticed Troy struggled with day-to-day tasks. Everything from getting up in the morning, making breakfast, brushing your teeth. You probably did it without thinking too much about the steps. People like Troy struggled with these tasks because so many people with autism have anxiety.”

She developed step-by-step guides that simplified the tasks and made Troy’s life much easier.

Today, the idea she had as a child in Toronto is now the basis for Magnusmode, which helps people with disabilities live more independently. The popular MagnusCards app provides simple instructions on everything from local travel to daily tasks to banking.

Magnusmode works with 60-plus inclusion partners, including Regions Bank. Specifically, the Regions MagnusCards provide easy-to-follow digital guides that help with using a debit card, opening a checking account, depositing a check, withdrawing cash and using Regions Online Banking. It’s part of Regions’ larger commitment to inclusive and accessible banking for all.

Regions is designated as an autism-friendly bank.

“This is an inclusion revolution,” Hamilton said.

And sharing this revolution is important to Regions and the bank’s Disability Services and Outreach Manager, Schiela Peña.

“Regions is designated as an autism-friendly bank,” Peña said. “We go the next step to having our sensory kits and designated quiet rooms, to make it a more welcoming, inclusive environment.

“One thing we want our associates to walk away from today is knowing that we have these great resources.”

Magnusmode has been a leader of the autistic community since Hamilton founded it in 2015. A decade later, almost 200,000 people utilize the MagnusCards app, with more coming online each day.

Regions has partnered with Magnusmode since 2023 and the five-card decks offered on the Regions app include directions in English and Spanish.

We are bringing a group that previously was kind of on the outskirts to the table, while providing the tools and services to bring them into the mainstream.

Nadia Hamilton

The app builds on data provided by clients to improve the experience. Caregivers are also asked to contribute their thoughts to continue to evolve.

“We are bringing a group that previously was kind of on the outskirts to the table,” Hamilton said, “while providing the tools and services to bring them into the mainstream.”

The app is accessible in a number of ways, but Hamilton said 70 percent of users discover MagnusCards by searching for help online.

As a result, “we’re empowering the community to be creators,” Hamilton said.

Empowering associates and customers are Peña’s goals, as well.

“Autism is near and dear to my heart,” Peña said. “I know that it can really put families in a tailspin because it’s not one size fits all. It looks different for everyone who is impacted.”

By providing help, Regions works to make life easier.

“These are things Regions can do. But, even better, we have resources and partners who we can connect you to. That way, we meet you where you are based on what your need is. And that’s important to all of us.”

Magnusmode – Getting Started Regions currently offers MagnusCards, which are available for download on IOS and Android devices, for five different banking activities: Using a debit card Opening a checking account Depositing a check at a Regions ATM Withdrawing funds from a Regions ATM Using Regions Online Banking services Information on the cards is available from the Accessibility section of regions.com. The card decks are accessible from the Magnusmode app (available from the Apple store and Google Play). Once you have downloaded the app, you will need to create an account, then select the Money Management icon, and select the Regions logo.

As spring awakens across the Northern Hemisphere and the season turns toward growth, so too does BIER’s momentum as a coalition. BIER members began 2025 with a renewed commitment to agility, collaboration, and measurable progress across its five core pillars: water, climate, reporting, circularity, and nature/biodiversity. From leadership transitions to groundbreaking innovation, this quarter marks a powerful beginning and a strategic alignment with BIER’s long-term vision.

The following highlights showcase the work and impact of BIER members during the first quarter of 2025.

Leadership in Action: BIER’s Chair and Co-Chair for 2025

Strategic leadership remains central to BIER’s ability to navigate complexity and accelerate progress. In 2025, that leadership is embodied by two individuals deeply committed to collaboration and impact.

Meet Nicolas Clerget, 2025 BIER Chair
As the global sustainability landscape becomes more complex, strong and pragmatic leadership is critical. Nicolas Clerget of The HEINEKEN Company brings strategic clarity and deep climate expertise to his role as 2025 BIER Chair, reinforcing our mission to drive collective impact across the beverage industry.

“BIER brings together the beverage industry’s collective expertise to create shared value. That spirit is rare and incredibly powerful.” – Nicolas Clerget

Meet David Grant, 2025 BIER Co-Chair
David Grant of PepsiCo joins as Co-Chair, bringing a systems-based perspective to sustainability. His leadership ensures that BIER remains agile and responsive as members tackle interconnected challenges in water, climate, and biodiversity.

“Sustainability is not linear—it’s interconnected. That integrated perspective will help us prioritize effectively while staying adaptable.” – David Grant

GHG Emissions Sector Guidance: Version 4.3

As part of its commitment to driving standardized, science-aligned climate action, BIER released Version 4.3 of the Beverage Industry Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions Sector Guidance—a crucial resource for beverage companies seeking to improve their emissions accounting and disclosure practices.

This latest update reflects BIER’s role in aligning the industry with evolving global standards while ensuring practical applicability across value chains. Version 4.3 introduces several key refinements, including:

• Enhanced guidance for Scope 3.15 (Investments), clarifying when and how to account for equity and debt holdings
• Updated methodology for renewable electricity accounting in accordance with GHG Protocol Scope 2 Guidance
• Improved clarity on emission factors, data quality scoring, and aggregation practices
• Expanded references to align with SBTi, ISSB, CSRD, and other emerging regulatory and voluntary frameworks

Version 4.3 builds on the globally recognized foundation established in earlier versions and supports consistent, transparent reporting that drives progress toward net-zero commitments and science-based targets.

BIER’s Cool Challenge 2025

Building on the momentum of the GHG Emissions Sector Guidance: Version 4.3, BIER continues to spotlight practical pathways to decarbonization across the value chain. One such opportunity lies in an often-overlooked emissions source: refrigeration.

Revolutionizing commercial refrigeration for chilled beverages—this was the mission with the 2025 Cool Challenge, and the results spoke volumes. The competition highlighted innovation in energy efficiency, circularity, and sustainable design, underscoring the crucial role of refrigeration manufacturers and component suppliers in climate-smart transformation.

Congratulations to the 2025 Cool Challenge Winners:

• Overall Best Solution: Imbera – Delivering a next-gen, holistic approach to sustainable refrigeration
• Circularity: Metalfrio Solutions & LEAF Polyol – Advancing smart, circular cooling solutions
• Business Model Innovation: CoolR Group – Rethinking how sustainability scales
• Incremental Energy Efficiency: Huayi Compressor Co., Ltd – Elevating compressor performance

This wasn’t just a competition; it was a call to action. From legislative alignment to total cost of ownership insights, the Cool Challenge sparked real momentum that will ripple across the industry for years to come.

Regulatory Roundup: Tracking Global Shifts in Sustainability Reporting

BIER’s Regulatory Roundup is a member-only forum providing quarterly updates on emerging ESG reporting regulations through a dedicated newsletter and virtual sessions. These updates spotlight key changes to existing and upcoming regulations, best practices, and opportunities for member input.

In BIER’s latest session, members explored the EU’s Omnibus package, updates to CSRD, CSDDD, and the EU Taxonomy, alongside global alignment efforts under ISSB/IFRS. As jurisdictions move from voluntary to mandatory frameworks, BIER members continue to collaborate on how best to adapt internal systems, prioritize data strategies, and manage resources efficiently. These exchanges are a hallmark of the BIER experience—shared intelligence for complex times.

Ad Hoc Sessions

BIER’s Ad Hoc Sessions provide a flexible, discussion-driven platform designed to address urgent or emerging issues relevant to the beverage industry. These member-only virtual gatherings enable BIER members to exchange ideas and collaboratively solve problems in response to new developments and industry challenges. By focusing on timely topics, these sessions support rapid knowledge sharing and actionable strategies to sustain BIER’s leadership in environmental stewardship.

In February, BIER convened members from seven global beverage companies for an Ad Hoc Session focused on Climate Transition Plans, exploring the role not just for compliance, but for competitive advantage.

Key takeaways included:

• Using the UK’s TPTF framework as a guide
• Balancing ambition with action and accountability
• Integrating new standards from CSRD, IFRS, and TCFD
• Addressing roadblocks such as risk ownership and fragmented data systems

The conversation reinforced that climate transition planning is no longer optional—it’s a strategic imperative.

In April, BIER members gathered to address the sweeping changes under the new EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR)—a legislative shift redefining how packaging is designed, labeled, reused, and regulated.

Key insights included:

• Uniform application across EU member states, with phase targets to 2040
• Recyclability standards to be introduced by 2028
• Mandatory reuse and deposit return systems, particularly for beverages
• Harmonized labeling to reduce greenwashing risk and streamline compliance
• The urgent need for supplier engagement and robust internal data systems

BIER’s role in facilitating peer insight and readiness in this evolving landscape remains a cornerstone of its impact.

Looking Ahead: What Spring Growth Means for BIER

From energizing leadership to boundary-pushing innovation and complex regulatory shifts, BIER’s first quarter of 2025 reflects a coalition in action. The BIER Spring Member Meeting, taking place from May 20 to 22, 2025, in Seville, Spain, and graciously hosted by BIER member Heineken, continues to build on this strong foundation, propelling the coalition forward with accelerated momentum well into the second quarter of 2025.

This in-person gathering will bring together sustainability leaders from across the global beverage industry to explore a range of technical topics, including:

• Integrating the Nature Agenda
• Measuring the Co-Benefits of Water Replenishment
• Review of the Net Zero Standard 2.0
• Net Zero Targets
• Thermal Energy Solutions
• Geopolitical Forces on Sustainability

As BIER members convene in Seville, the emphasis remains on collaborative problem-solving and technical excellence, hallmarks of BIER’s approach. BIER values its membership base, which reflects the diversity and expertise of the global beverage industry, drawing insights from companies across the entire value chain. From brewers and distillers to non-alcoholic beverage producers, BIER members bring deep knowledge and unwavering commitment to solving the most pressing environmental challenges of our time. As such, when we work together, we go further. These cross-sector partnerships not only advance technical progress but also raise stakeholder awareness, build trust with consumers, and promote sustainable solutions that benefit both the industry and the environment.

As the rest of 2025 unfolds, the energy from the previous quarters sets the tone: one of momentum, innovation, and purposeful collaboration. We look forward to what’s next—and to continuing this shared journey toward a more sustainable beverage sector.

ST. PAUL, Minn., May 15, 2025 /3BL/ – Antea Group USA is proud to announce the launch of Season Two of Rethinking EHS: Global Goals, Local Delivery, a global podcast with Inogen Alliance.

This season launches June 24th, with early-access available one week prior. On this podcast, we traverse the globe to unearth the stories of EHS and sustainability communities making an impact on the ground. We share compelling stories, expert insights, and diverse perspectives to highlight tangible solutions and share innovative strategies to drive change.

The idea for a global podcast started from a desire to create an accessible platform for sharing local insights from every corner of the world. We envisioned a space to give back to the EHS community by spotlighting expert perspectives, lessons learned, challenges faced, and conversations around today’s most pressing and emerging topics. Advancing global goals requires collective learning and collaboration—and this podcast is one way we can help drive that progress together.

In season one, we had thousands of listeners tuned into episodes spanning topics such as Social & Environmental Justice, Occupational Health and Safety, COP29 outcomes, Biodiversity, CSRD, and more. For season two, we knew we had to continue the conversations. This season the podcast will be available both in audio and full video formats across all podcast streaming platforms including Spotify and Apple, as well as our YouTube channel.

Across our Alliance, Associates connect regularly through 10 global working groups covering critical focus areas like water, sustainability, energy transition, remediation, mergers & acquisitions, health & safety, and more. Our bi-annual in-person meetings also provide a unique opportunity to hear from experts across regions as they share insights, feedback, and updates on current trends. Now, we’re excited to bring more of those stories and expertise to a wider, external audience.

“In pursuit of our purpose, we draw on the collective experience of our 70+ and growing members, actively incorporating their technical expertise to partner with organizations all over the world to achieve an equitable and resilient planet. The podcast allows us to extend this expertise and knowledge to a broader base to help accelerate towards a more resilient planet for all,” Angelique Dickson, President of Inogen Alliance and Executive Vice President (EVP) at Antea Group USA.

Whether you’re an EHS practitioner, a sustainability specialist, or a leader striving to improve your organization, subscribe and listen to this new series to gain insights and learn from our local experts on the ground.

Sign up now for early access to episode one of the new season.

Upcoming episode topics include:

• A global view of the most pressing topics and importance of local understanding in today’s dynamic and changing environments
• Landfills coast impacts and waste to energy
• Climate risk & resilience, mitigation, and adaption strategies
• Emerging contaminants and remediation
• Energy Transition bottle necks, challenges and solutions
• Emerging Health & Safety topics, safety in design, mental health, trainings
• Infrastructure global trends
• And more to come!

Our professional host is Phil Dillard, an entrepreneur, educator, business strategist, Lean Startup expert, and subject matter expert and practitioner of Waste-to-Value, Circular Economy and Regenerative Economy solutions. As a former naval officer, corporate strategist, and manufacturing executive, Phil managed organizational growth, business strategy, fundraising, and operations. Phil is the Founder & CEO of Thruline Networks.

Our co-host this season will be President of Inogen Alliance, Angelique Dickson, as well as guest co-hosts from some of our global working group leaders and leadership team members.

Upcoming speakers in episodes include Angelique Dickson, President of Inogen Alliance and EVP at Antea Group USA; Alex Ferguson, CEO of Antea Group UK; Lida Tan, President of Anew Global Consulting China; Alizabeth Aramowicz-Smith, VP at Antea Group USA; Andrew Green, Peter J. Ramsay & Associates Australia; Paul Walker, Tonkin + Taylor, New Zealand; Beatrice Bizzaro, HPC Italy; Sofiane Kessouar, Baden Consulting Switzerland; and more to come.

The global podcast is made possible by sponsoring Associates Anew Global Consulting, Antea Group USA, Antea Group UK, Baden Consulting, Chola MS Risk, HPC AG, Peter J. Ramsay & Associates, and Tonkin + Taylor.

About Inogen Alliance

Inogen Alliance is a global network made up of over 70 independent local businesses and over 6,000 consultants around the world who can help make your project a success. Our Associates collaborate closely to serve multinational corporations, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations, and we share knowledge and industry experience to provide the highest quality service to our clients. If you want to learn more about how you can work with Inogen Alliance, you can explore our Associates or Contact Us. Watch for more News & Blog updates, listen to our podcast and follow us on LinkedIn. 

About Antea Group  

Antea®Group is an environment, health, safety, and sustainability consulting firm. By combining strategic thinking with technical expertise, we do more than effectively solve client challenges; we deliver sustainable results for a better future. We work in partnership with and advise many of the world’s most sustainable companies to address ESG-business challenges in a way that fits their pace and unique objectives. Our consultants equip organizations to better understand threats, capture opportunities and find their position of strength. Lastly, we maintain a global perspective on ESG issues through not only our work with multinational clients, but also through our sister organizations in Europe, Asia, and Latin America and as a founding member of the Inogen Alliance. Learn more at us.anteagroup.com. 

In today’s episode, we will hear from Simon Weaver, Global Head of ESG Advisory, KPMG International and Partner, KPMG in the UK and Fiona Watson, Vice President Corporate Performance & Accountability, WBCSD — who will share insights and reflections on integrating sustainability into financial valuations.

Click here to listen to episode 38 of ESG voices

Three of our employees share their unique experiences in both the military and corporate worlds: CJ as an active service member, Rhonda as a veteran, and Shelby as a military parent.

One common theme: They feel their experience is supported and valued at Principal.

CJ
Process improvement consultant 
Captain, U.S. Air Force 

Military journey 

I joined the International Guard when I was 18, starting basic training three weeks after I graduated high school. I started out as a jet mechanic and now have transitioned to an officer position leading a team. At first, I was primarily focused on the educational and life experience benefits, but I quickly became passionate about serving my country.

A family tradition

My two older brothers are in the Air Force as well. And when it comes to my brothers, I’m fairly impressionable. I love and look up to them a lot. So, I joined for that reason as well. We deployed together in 2021 to Saudi Arabia, which was a very unique experience.

From the military to Principal 

I joined Principal through the rotational program, which allowed me to explore different opportunities across the company, as I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do after I graduated college. I realized the culture is amazing, and the products we sell really do help people. I felt supported to provide value quickly and progress in my military career at the same time. Ultimately, I landed in Corporate Accounting and have been focused on continuous improvement efforts for the past six years.

Fulfilling dual responsibilities 

Principal has always allowed me to focus on my mission at hand. While working here, I’ve been deployed overseas once, activated twice—including during the COVID-19 pandemic—and have participated in multiple trainings that required time away. Throughout it all, I’ve felt nothing but support and gratitude from my Principal family. I’ve received heartfelt letters and generous gifts from my team. When I was deployed to Saudi Arabia, my peers were amazed by the care package sent by my Principal team; it was truly humbling and a powerful reminder of the support behind me.

Advocating for others

I think the biggest difficulty is the translation gap between how the military describes your responsibilities versus how corporate America would. I recommend finding a professional organization or a mentor who previously made that transition to help bridge that gap.

I had my brothers and a mentor who coached me through the transition. Now, I advocate for and coach younger airmen to identify the responsibility they hold; there’s a lot of weight and power to it that they probably don’t recognize.

Closing the skills translation gap: When you search for a job at Principal, you can enter your MOS code to find roles that match your military skills. 

Rhonda 
Advisor care specialist
Army veteran 

Military journey 

I entered the military right out of high school. I gained confidence and discipline through serving as a squad leader throughout basic training and as the designated class leader throughout extensive eight-month schooling. That experience earned me an opportunity to serve at the Pentagon for the Army Chief of Staff for Intelligence (and top-secret security clearance) at age 19.

From the military to Principal 

My time in the military provided me with skillsets to successfully navigate university (a disciplined approach to studying and time management) as well as the confidence and organizational skills needed for every step in my career, including my time at Principal since 2001.

Finding community 

In my early days at Principal, I joined the board of our Veteran Employee Resource Group (VERG), helping bring military community events and fundraisers to our satellite offices. There, I found camaraderie and community. Even though our experiences were different, it was fun to connect and see the passion that we all had for supporting veterans.

A note for potential military employees 

I think Principal is among the top tier of employers with their support of veterans. They actively seek out veterans and military people for employment. They view military experience as a huge asset. They know that veterans bring a lot to the table with their experience, and there’s a good chance there’s a position that will fit you perfectly.

Shelby 
Licensed senior client investment and expense associate
Military mom and granddaughter 

A family tradition

Both my grandfathers are veterans. One served in Japan and the other is a Korean War combat veteran. Listening to them talk about their experiences instilled a sense of respect and appreciation for the sacrifices they made. Sharing military stories has also helped bridge connections across generations, as my two stepdaughters currently serve in the Marines.

Finding community at Principal

Being a mom of military service members means experiencing a wide range of emotions at any given period, including pride, worry, and anxiety, which can all affect your career. I’ve been able to network with other employees through VERG who were going through similar situations with their own children, along with military veterans who offered support and guidance along the way.

Leaning into flexibility 

One thing we’ve learned being a military family is that things can change quickly. It can be hard to schedule holidays and other family gatherings; sometimes we might only have a week’s advance notice. Fortunately, my leaders are incredible about giving me the flexibility to take time off when opportunities for family time come.

Learn more about our benefits, like flexibility and time away.

Military to corporate values 

The work environment at Principal is based on integrity, respect, community, and trust—very similar to that of the military. I am proud to work for a company with these strong values. Everything has a trickle effect. If I instill these same values in my home and in my family, my hope is that my children will continue to instill these values in their lives, whether in the military or civilian world.

A full circle moment 

After my grandpa passed, my grandmother wanted his clothes to go to another veteran. Through a VERG event, I had the opportunity to fulfill her wish at a local veteran’s shelter. That was a humbling, full circle moment.

Principal^® is an equal opportunity employer and an E-Verify participant. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion or religious creed, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, mental or physical disability, medical condition, genetic information or characteristics, sexual orientation, marital status, domestic partner status, military status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We also prohibit harassment on these bases.

Know your rights: Workplace discrimination is illegal (dol.gov) 

If at any stage of the employment application process you need a reasonable accommodation due to a disability, contact Human Resources at MyHR@principal.com or 1-866-524-6947. Read our employment policies for more information. 

Recruitment fraud is a scheme that offers fictitious job opportunities to people. This type of fraud is normally done through online services such as bogus websites, social media, or through unsolicited emails/SMS texts claiming to be from Principal or Principal employees. Only applicants who have filled out an official application on our career site (careers.principal.com) will be considered for employment opportunities. Principal will never ask for money during any stage of the employment application process. If you receive a communication (e.g., LinkedIn message, Facebook Messenger, SMS text, personal email, etc.) asking for money or personal financial information, don’t engage or respond. Please contact our Human Resources team at MyHR@principal.com or 1-866-524-6947, and your local law enforcement. For more information, review our recruitment fraud information. 

You can review our U.S. workforce privacy notice (PDF).   

Insurance products and plan administrative services provided through Principal Life Insurance Company®, a member of the Principal Financial Group®, Des Moines, IA 50392.  

4468340-052025

Celebrated by more than a billion people, Earth Day is the largest global environmental event, inspiring more and more AMDers to take part in activities to help protect the planet.

This year, AMDers across the globe with a shared interest in helping protect the planet joined forces to work towards a more sustainable future. Throughout March and April, AMD Community Impact Volunteer Liaisons, with help from the Go Green Employee Resource Group (ERG), organized activities at 24 global sites to promote environmental preservation and raise awareness about sustainability issues.

More than 2,000 employees in North America, Europe, the United Kingdom (U.K.) and Asia volunteered their time to participate in over 40 company-sponsored events, casting a wide net for collective action across geographies with even more events planned for May.

Employees in 15 North American sites received tree saplings and plants from the nonprofit Neighborhood Forest, resulting in 2,500 plants being donated to children through the organization’s annual Earth Day educational program.

Teams in Armenia, Bellevue, Iasi, Markham, Shanghai and Suzhou planted 740 trees and 70 plants to green up their local communities. Sites in the U.K. also helped support local gardens by creating flower beds, removing weeds and planting seedlings helping to ensure that neglected spaces are primed for growth and ready to thrive.

AMDers from several locations also joined forces to clean up local parks, shorelines and waterways. With events ranging from removal of litter and debris in Austin, Fishkill, Ottawa, Rochester, Singapore and Shanghai, employees worked hard to preserve the natural beauty of their local environments for future generations.

In line with the three Rs – reduce, reuse and recycle – AMD employees in Santa Clara and San Jose demonstrated their resourcefulness by turning scraps of fabric into pull-toys for shelter dogs. AMDers in Singapore tackled food waste by partnering with the nonprofit Fridge Restock to sort and package rescued surplus food for distribution to community fridges across the country.

Lastly, employees engaged in mindfulness and educational activities helping ensure that Earth Day highlighted the importance of environmental stewardship. Employees participated in events that demonstrated how intentional minimalism can empower one to live in harmony with nature with simplicity and purpose and embraced nature therapy by creating pieces of art out of moss.

Through these activities, AMDers embraced our collective role in helping protect the planet, while also empowering ourselves and others to make more sustainable choices every day.

“We are incredibly proud of our AMD employees for their dedication to making a positive impact on the planet through collective action and we look forward to ongoing efforts in promoting environmental stewardship across our global sites,” said Anne Fertitta, senior manager, community impact, AMD.

For more information on AMD environmental sustainability, please read Director of Corporate Responsibility Justin Murrill’s Earth Day blog.

For more information on community involvement at AMD, please see the AMD Corporate Responsibility Report.

Originally published on GoDaddy Resource Library

Tell us a little bit about yourself and what led you to join GoDaddy.

I hold a Master’s degree in Information Technology. Shortly after graduating, I learned from a friend about an opportunity at GoDaddy that matched my skill set. Although it initially felt daunting to start my career at such a large company, I decided to take the leap. I’m immensely grateful that I did. I can truly say that starting my professional journey at GoDaddy feels like a dream come true. I never imagined I would find such a welcoming environment, with amazing colleagues and a workplace culture that genuinely supports growth and positivity. I am deeply thankful.

At GoDaddy, I work with customers who need assistance with their WordPress websites, resolving issues, improving their sites, and finding the right solutions and products to meet their needs. I believe that the “human touch” is the most important part of our work; truly listening to each customer, understanding the heart of their stories and businesses, and building strong, genuine connections. It’s this commitment that helps us not only provide excellent service but also build lasting relationships with our customers.

I’m grateful that my role is both dynamic and challenging, allowing me to constantly learn and improve. It gives me the opportunity to put my lifelong passion and dedication into practice, to embrace my perfectionism in a healthy way, and to give my best effort to every task before me.

Outside of work, I enjoy painting with oil on canvas and spending quality time with my family, which is incredibly important to me. They are my greatest source of inspiration and balance in life.

In what ways does your work contribute to the success of our everyday entrepreneurs?

Since I work directly with customers, I have the opportunity to make a real impact through every interaction. I help our customers get their websites back on track whenever issues arise, responding quickly and efficiently. It’s important that our customers always feel supported.

My role is to not only identify the root cause of any problem but also to find the best possible solution, whether it’s a product, a service, or a recommendation that truly meets their specific needs. By leveraging my deep knowledge of our offerings, I can guide them toward the right choices that help elevate their business to a higher, more professional level. Every entrepreneur faces challenges, technical issues, questions about which hosting plan to choose, or uncertainty about which services will best support their growth. I am here to remove those obstacles, clear up confusion, and help ensure their businesses stay strong and competitive.

In an industry full of choices, my goal is to show our customers through my support and expertise that GoDaddy is not just another hosting company, we are their trusted partner, always ready to provide the fastest, most reliable solutions so they can focus on growing their dreams.

What has been your most significant learning experience within the past year?

Over the past year, one of my most significant learning experiences has been improving my approach to offering GoDaddy products and services during customer interactions. While my primary focus has been assisting customers with their WordPress websites, I realized how important it is to look beyond the immediate technical needs and truly understand the bigger picture of each customer’s business. By developing a more consultative and thoughtful communication style, I was able to better analyze their goals and recommend the products and services that would best support their growth. This shift has not only strengthened my own customer relationships, but it has also had a positive impact on my entire team. I am very proud that I can share my knowledge, experience, and skills with my teammates. Helping others through mentorship and support, especially during the onboarding and training of new members of our Hosting and Sales teams, has been incredibly fulfilling. It’s very important to me to motivate new colleagues in the right way, to pass on my knowledge, and to help them build a strong foundation for developing their own skills. My goal has always been to inspire my team members to demonstrate to our customers that GoDaddy is an exceptional company. We provide the best solutions and services on the market, distinguishing ourselves through the care and dedication we offer. Witnessing others grow and succeed as a result of my guidance has been one of the most fulfilling experiences of my career, thus far.

If you had to describe GoDaddy’s culture in one word, what would it be and why?

If I had to describe GoDaddy’s culture in one word, it would be Empowering. GoDaddy creates an environment where everyone is encouraged to grow, express their ideas, and make a real impact.

From day one, I felt supported not just as an employee, but as an individual with unique strengths and potential.

The culture motivates us to continuously improve, to help each other succeed, and to always put our customers first. It’s a place where you are given the tools, trust, and inspiration to become the best version of yourself, and to help our customers do the same.

What advice would you give to an individual interested in a career in WordPress?

WordPress is an excellent field for anyone looking to build a strong and evolving career. The software is constantly changing and improving, always keeping pace with the latest technologies and offering some of the most advanced tools available today. Pursuing a career in WordPress allows you to showcase and develop both your technical skills and your creativity. Whether you are solving complex technical issues or building beautiful, functional websites, there is always room to learn, innovate, and make a real impact. It is truly a dynamic and exciting sector within the IT industry, offering endless opportunities for growth and personal development. If you are passionate about technology, eager to keep learning, and love the idea of combining technical expertise with creativity, then WordPress is a perfect path to explore.

What’s your motto or personal mantra?

My personal mantra is simple but powerful: “You can do it!”

It’s a phrase my mom used to tell me before every competition during my school years, and it has stayed with me ever since. Every time I read or hear those words, I can hear her voice encouraging me, and it becomes my source of strength. Whenever I face something new, unknown, or challenging, I remind myself of that very sentence. It gives me the courage to step forward and trust in my knowledge, skills, and dedication. It pushes me to give my very best, to do everything to the highest standard I can.

This mantra inspires me not only in my personal life, to be the best daughter, partner, and friend I can be, but also in my professional life here at GoDaddy. It reminds me every day to be a supportive colleague and a dedicated team member; someone who always strives to give it my all, because deep down, I truly believe: I can do it!

Are you enjoying this series and want to know more about life at GoDaddy? Check out our GoDaddy Life social pages! Follow us to meet our team, learn more about our culture (Teams, ERGs, Locations), careers, and so much more. You’re more than just your day job, so come propel your career with us.

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Client background

HII Mission Technologies (Huntington Ingalls Industries) is the largest military shipbuilder and a global engineering and defense technologies provider, with over 135 years in trusted partnerships with the US national security.

As HII has evolved and built a longstanding shipbuilding legacy, they’ve advanced to provide delivery critical technology solutions. These include unmanned systems, artificial intelligence and machine learning, synthetic training, electronic warfare, and C5ISR: Command, Control, Computers, Communications, Cyber, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance. HII’s ongoing digital transformation efforts extend into all business areas and impact the entire workforce.

The business challenge

When HII completed an acquisition that doubled its size, two ERP systems needed to be combined to ensure operations went smoothly. The newly acquired company needed to be quickly converted into the same ERP system that HII had been relying upon for so many years.

Integrating such an enormous entity into HII’s Costpoint infrastructure would be a challenging project. HII has over 7,000 employees, with all of them using their timekeeping capabilities and Costpoint. In addition, HII works with 1,200 subcontractors that also rely on the time system, program managers and project controllers, all managing and monitoring projects and back-office staff.

Baker Tilly, as a Deltek system’s integrator, worked with HII and synchronized systems across the two organizations and ensured the needs of both sides were met.

Strategy and solution

Deltek Costpoint has been HII’s ERP of choice for operations management for more than two decades. As Costpoint’s ERP is project-based and built specifically for government contractors, it offers an all-in-one system delivering innovation and intelligence across the project lifecycle.

Baker Tilly helped HII implement Costpoint for the newly acquired company. Despite the size and complexity of the implementation, Baker Tilly successfully completed the project in months.

“I think it’s important to focus on the scale and timeline of this project,” says Colt Meraw, Senior Manager on Baker Tilly’s team. “HII acquired a multibillion-dollar company that was running on a JAMIS system, and we were able to successfully complete a mid-year conversion within just six months.”

As part of the integration project, Baker Tilly also worked closely with Deltek Global Consulting’s data conversion team to help them translate requirements and convert and validate data. Having completed in June 2022, and experiencing six months on a combined system, HII is still harvesting benefits and seeing huge success.

Why choose Baker Tilly

Baker Tilly was Deltek’s first strategic alliance partner to provide consultancy services as part of their ERP implementation project. Helping government contractors leverage technology solutions through specialist knowledge and project management rigor.

By leveraging Deltek Costpoint in the Cloud, HII will be able to embrace its future of enterprise transformation and solidify its position as the nation’s largest military shipbuilder.

Interested in learning more? Connect with a Baker Tilly specialist today.