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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Worker-friendly firms lauded

Humanix, Haskins Steel, Skils’kin make group’s list

Six Spokane-area businesses and nonprofits were among 18 saluted last week by the Association for Washington Business for their outstanding commitment to employees.

Companies were nominated for training, safety and compensation programs that effectively fostered innovation, met the needs of employees and their families, and showed commitment on the part of employers.

“Building a strong, talented workforce is one of the most important things we can do to help Washington emerge strong from the recent downturn,” said association President Don Brunell.

Local winners were: Humanix Staffing & Recruiting for developing guidelines clarifying responsibility for assuring the safety of temporary and permanent employees; Haskins Steel Co. Inc. for its training programs, and upgrades to employee amenities; and Skils’kin, which trains and places the developmentally disabled. The agency also does home-safety inspections.

Also recognized were: St. Luke’s Rehabilitation Institute, for its investment in ergonomic training and patient-handling equipment; Sterling Savings Bank for creation of an in-house Sterling University for employee training and career advancement; and Acme Concrete Paving Inc. for its health and dental plans, which reimburse employees for their deductible payments.

Acme also flew all its Spokane employees to Las Vegas after completion of a project there.