General Electric

GE is an established company with well-established product development plans. There was clear and concise information from management about the program goals at the front end of the project, but they were willing to adjust those goals depending on feedback from other groups.

GE has a number of processes and systems in place to promote and challenge their employees. The company is so large and diverse, there is never a lack of opportunity within the company.

GE continually challenges its employees, which can lead to stressful work situations. The benefits were not great when I was there. New employees, regardless of previous work experience, were given two weeks of vacation.

There was pressure on employees to not take much vacation during the year but to save it for around the end of the year (most employees take off the last two weeks of the year). In addition, the healthcare contribution was significant for families, and the plans had high deductibles.

The company has a good vision and good overall technical and project management, but better benefits and work/life balance would be helpful for employee retention.