Coca-Cola Europacific Partners (CCEP) Australia has received a distinguished accolade from the Top Employers Institute for 2025. This certification is based on an extensive survey covering various aspects of human resources and workplace culture, including strategic planning, employee development, diversity initiatives, and overall well-being. The recognition highlights CCEP's dedication to cultivating an environment where employees are respected, empowered, and encouraged to thrive. It also underscores the company's commitment to fostering a culture that prioritizes values, ethics, and inclusivity.
Commitment to Employee Well-being and Development
CCEP Australia's success in achieving top employer status reflects its unwavering focus on creating a supportive and empowering work environment. The organization has implemented numerous initiatives aimed at enhancing employee satisfaction and career growth. By promoting a culture of respect and belonging, CCEP ensures that every team member feels valued and motivated to contribute their best efforts. This approach not only boosts individual performance but also strengthens the collective success of the company.
The company’s leadership emphasizes the importance of building a strong sense of community within the workplace. Vice President of People and Culture, Sally Byrne, expressed pride in the culture they have cultivated, where employees feel respected and empowered. She highlighted that this culture supports both individual and collective performance, underscoring the critical role employees play in driving business success. CCEP continues to invest in its people by providing opportunities for professional development and career advancement, ensuring that each team member can reach their full potential.
Global Vision for Diversity and Inclusion
Beyond local achievements, CCEP has set ambitious global goals to enhance workplace diversity and inclusion. The company aims to ensure that its workforce reflects a broad spectrum of backgrounds and perspectives. By setting targets such as having 45% of management positions held by women and 10% of the workforce represented by individuals with disabilities by 2030, CCEP demonstrates its commitment to creating a more equitable and inclusive environment.
CCEP Australia, one of the largest beverage bottlers and distributors in the country, employs over 3,500 passionate professionals. The company’s global vision aligns with its local efforts to foster a welcoming and diverse workplace. CEO of the Top Employers Institute, David Plink, praised CCEP for consistently delivering world-class HR strategies and practices. He noted that top employers like CCEP strive to enrich the world of work by fostering growth and well-being, even amidst rapid changes in technology, economics, and social landscapes. This recognition underscores CCEP's dedication to leading the way in creating a better future for its employees and the industry as a whole.
In a significant advancement for medical aviation infrastructure, Howell Construction, in partnership with Path21 Architecture & Planning, has successfully completed the construction of an advanced heliport facility at the North Suburban Medical Center (NSMC) in Thornton. The project encompasses a 5,000-square-foot area, featuring a spacious hangar and a comprehensive staff support center. This new facility is designed to enhance operational efficiency and safety, providing essential services for AirLife Denver while ensuring minimal disruption to ongoing hospital activities.
Achieving Excellence in Medical Aviation Infrastructure
The newly constructed heliport facility, nestled within the bustling healthcare environment of Thornton, represents a major milestone for both Howell Construction and Path21 Architecture & Planning. The 3,000-square-foot hangar offers an open, column-free structure that facilitates helicopter maintenance and fueling operations. Adjacent to this is a 2,000-square-foot staff area equipped with modern amenities such as restrooms, laundry facilities, a lounge, and ample storage space, ensuring comfort and functionality for personnel.
The proximity to the active NSMC campus posed unique challenges, requiring stringent safety protocols to safeguard hospital staff, patients, and visitors. Close collaboration between the construction team and hospital personnel ensured smooth coordination of helicopter traffic, minimizing disruptions to medical operations. Extensive safety measures were implemented, including meticulous planning of helicopter takeoffs and landings, allowing construction activities to proceed without interference.
Todd Berry, Vice President of Howell Construction, expressed excitement about the successful partnership with Path21 Architecture & Planning. He emphasized that the heliport facility not only adds critical infrastructure to NSMC but also showcases the team's capability to execute complex projects with safety and efficiency as top priorities.
Founded in 1935, Howell Construction is a locally owned, full-service general contracting firm specializing in technically intensive and high-risk environments. The company provides construction management, design-build, and collaborative construction services across various sectors, including commercial, advanced industries, healthcare, corporate interiors, and public sector markets.
This project exemplifies Howell Construction's commitment to delivering innovative solutions in challenging settings, further solidifying its reputation as a leader in the construction industry.
From a journalist's perspective, this development highlights the importance of integrating advanced infrastructure into existing medical facilities. It underscores the need for seamless collaboration between construction teams and healthcare providers to ensure patient safety and operational continuity. The successful completion of this heliport facility serves as a model for future projects, demonstrating how careful planning and execution can lead to significant improvements in healthcare infrastructure.
In the heart of uptown Columbus, a transformative $207 million project is underway to construct a new government building that promises to revolutionize the city’s judicial infrastructure. City officials have unveiled the initial phases of this ambitious endeavor, offering judicial employees a glimpse into their future workspace. The eight-story structure, set to feature 13 courtrooms with potential for expansion, marks a significant upgrade from the current outdated facilities. Located at the intersection of 10th Street and Second Avenue, the construction began in April 2024 and is funded by the Transportation Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (T-SPLOST). This state-of-the-art center aims to provide enhanced space, security, and efficiency for both staff and the public.
The development of this judicial center represents a pivotal moment for Columbus. With the second level already under construction, the project has garnered considerable attention and support. Ryan Pruett, Director of Inspections and Codes, highlighted that the facility will not only accommodate the existing needs but also offer flexibility for future expansions. “We are ensuring that the design can easily adapt to accommodate up to 18 courtrooms if required,” Pruett noted. The building’s strategic location and advanced layout are designed to streamline operations and enhance workflow within the judicial system. Increased parking spaces, including dedicated areas for employees and visitors, further underscore the commitment to improving accessibility and convenience.
City leaders, including the mayor, city manager, and deputy city manager Pam Hodge, have been actively involved in overseeing the project. They recently provided updates on the progress to various stakeholders. Danielle Forte, Clerk of Superior Court, expressed enthusiasm about the expanded facilities, emphasizing the need for more space and modern amenities. Superior Court Judge Gil McBride echoed similar sentiments, stating that the new building will facilitate efficient case management and legal proceedings. The innovative design ensures optimal circulation and robust security measures, aligning perfectly with the objectives of the judicial system.
The completion of this judicial center is anticipated by next summer, with full operational readiness expected by the end of 2026. This milestone project symbolizes a significant leap forward for Columbus, promising a more functional and secure environment for all who engage with the city’s judicial processes. The upgraded facilities will undoubtedly enhance productivity and service delivery, marking a new era for the local government and its constituents.