EDEN PRAIRIE, MINNESOTA — Starkey has been named a 2026 Star Tribune Top Workplace, marking the fifth consecutive year the company has earned the distinction. The award is based entirely on employee feedback gathered through a confidential engagement survey that measures workplace culture, leadership, communication, and employee experience.
The recognition reflects Starkey’s ongoing commitment to fostering a workplace where employees are empowered to innovate, collaborate, and make a meaningful impact on the lives of people around the world.
“The strongest cultures are built on authenticity,” said Jessica Sawalich, Chief People Officer and Executive Vice President of Culture at Starkey. “When people feel empowered to be themselves, share their ideas, and contribute in meaningful ways, extraordinary things happen. What makes Starkey special is not only our innovation or our success, it is the people behind it. This recognition reflects a culture grounded in purpose, connection, and a genuine commitment to the people we serve.”
Employee Engagement Continues to Drive Company Culture
The Top Workplace recognition follows another year of strong employee engagement across the organization. Recent survey results highlighted employees’ confidence in leadership, pride in the company’s mission, and belief that their work contributes to meaningful outcomes for hearing professionals and patients worldwide.
With more than 5,000 employees serving customers in over 100 markets, Starkey continues to invest in creating an environment where people can grow professionally, contribute their unique talents, and collaborate in pursuit of shared goals. The company’s culture is built on innovation, accountability, continuous improvement, and a commitment to excellence.
“The most innovative companies are built by exceptional people who are united by a shared purpose. This recognition reflects the culture our employees have created — one that challenges us to think bigger, move faster, and continuously strive for excellence. We are proud to foster an environment where people feel empowered to contribute, grow, and make a meaningful difference.”
–Brandon Sawalich, President and Chief Executive Officer of Starkey
Starkey has received numerous workplace and culture honors in recent years, including being named a USA TODAY Top Workplace for four consecutive years and earning multiple Culture Excellence Awards recognizing leadership, innovation, employee well-being, professional development, and purpose-driven work.
Commitment to Innovation and Growth
As Starkey continues to advance hearing technology through innovations such as Omega AI, the company remains focused on creating a workplace where employees are inspired to challenge conventions, pursue excellence, and improve lives through better hearing.
About Starkey
Starkey is a leading global innovator in hearing technology and AI-powered hearing aids, headquartered in Eden Prairie, Minnesota. Founded by Bill Austin in 1967 and led today by Brandon Sawalich, the company develops advanced hearing technologies and employs more than 5,000 professionals across 29 facilities. Starkey serves customers in more than 100 markets worldwide and is the only American-owned hearing aid manufacturer.
