Garmin International Inc., based in Olathe, KS, announced that Forbes recognized Garmin as the No. 1 Employer in the State of Kansas in its inaugural ranking of America’s Best Employers by State.

Forbes partnered with market research company Statista to pinpoint the companies and organizations preferred by employees in its first-ever state-by-state ranking.

“We are honored to again be recognized by Forbes, this time as the top employer in Kansas,” said Cliff Pemble, Garmin president and CEO. “Garmin associates bring their passion for our products to work every day, and we believe that genuine interest in our business combined with a commitment to serving our customers is what sets us apart.”

The designation reinforces Garmin’s ongoing commitment to employee engagement, inclusion and diversity. In April, Garmin ranked No. 5 on Forbes’ list of America’s Best Employers in 2019, its third consecutive appearance on the list in the large employers category, up from No. 37 in 2018.

“Garmin strives to attract and retain top talent by creating a rewarding and vibrant work environment,” said Laurie Minard, Garmin vice president of human resources. “This latest Forbes ranking is our report card and tells us that our associates enjoy working for Garmin.”

Forbes America’s Best Employers by State rankings were derived from a series on online access panels composed of U.S.-based employees.

With more than 13,000 associates in 35 countries around the world, Garmin is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. The company maintains, just as it did in 1989, a vertically integrated business model where design, manufacturing, distribution, sales, marketing and support roles are primarily in-house creating opportunities for employees. Garmin designs GPS navigation and wearable technology for five primary markets, including automotive, aviation, fitness, marine and outdoor recreation.