IBM

Flexibility in hours, great pay in a low cost-of-living area, great 401k and health benefits, patent opportunities, and quick promotions if you prove yourself.

There are also very intelligent people to learn from and communicate with. A very professional environment.

The area feels very conservative, which can be a con for some. The culture feels very old-time and not very exciting in some departments. Progress on work is slow. Old technology is common in development in older departments, since moving forward is slow in such large companies.

Younger crowds want excitement, but it feels very artificial at IBM.

Opportunities and ways to improve yourself in your career should be communicated throughout the year, not just at dedicated times reserved for reviews.