"We recognize that we can't be a Best Employer without highly talented employees. The passion and dedication to excellence that this survey recognizes is the same fundamental culture that drives our world-renowned guest service - and we have our employees to thank for that," says James Terry, Executive VP and Chief Operating Officer, Rocky Mountaineer Vacations.

The results were based on companies completing confidential opinion surveys in three main areas: Employee Opinion, Leadership Team and Human Resources. However, the lion's share of the ranking is a direct result of employee feedback or high employee engagement - gauging the emotional and intellectual commitment employees demonstrate for the organization for which they work.

"At its core, the prestigious Top 50 study measures how engaged employees are or how passionate, motivated and excited they are to come to work. This is an award that recognizes how well we work together and how much we enjoy working with one another," says Paul Dyck Vice President, Human Resources & Corporate Administration at Rocky Mountaineer Vacations. "We have long recognized that our employees are the foundation of our team, and as such we strive to be an employer of choice by attracting, training, supporting and retaining the very best people."

According to Hewitt Associates the 50 Best Employers have lower turnover, receive more applications for job openings and experience better business results. Hewitt also examined how closely employees' and leaders' goals are aligned, and whether workplace practices and programs reinforce corporate vision. The Best Employers ranking has become a recognized Canadian and international business award.