what’ s working finalists:
• Olympia-based Balanced Being, Inc., offers training, flexible support, and advocacy to help veterans and spouses grow into roles that honor their service.
• With offices in Tacoma and California, Support The Enlisted Project( STEP) helps veterans break free from survival mode. They center veteran advancement in workplace culture and outreach.
diversity award
The Diversity Award recognizes a Washington business that puts diversity at the heart of its work— through leadership, hiring, retention, or community outreach. It celebrates companies that help to build a more inclusive Washington. winner: bobae usa llc, where at Bobae Coffee & Tea they serve drinks that connect people, not just quench thirst.
Founded by Karma Lee, a first-generation entrepreneur, Bobae mentors young adults from underrepresented communities, offers industry-leading benefits, and creates space for cultural exchange through globally inspired drinks served in Woodinville, Kirkland, Issaquah, Bellevue and Redmond.
From pay-it-forward programs to nonprofit partnerships, Bobae lifts voices often left out. The company’ s growth across five cities proves inclusion and impact can grow side by side.
“ Our team reflects Washington’ s multicultural fabric, and we celebrate that through pay equity, and opportunities for youth and second-chance employees to thrive,” said Lee. finalists:
• Shocking Difference LLC, an Olympia-based electrical contractor, welcomes diverse backgrounds and empowers every crew member to serve, grow, and give back.
• The Moore Wright Group, based in Tumwater, breaks cycles of poverty and trauma through barrier-free support— housing, workforce development, disaster relief, and youth leadership.
workplace safety award
The Workplace Safety Award honors an exceptional organization in Washington state with a proven, proactive commitment to safety— through strong protocols, training, and hazard prevention. winner: cepheid bothell advances molecular diagnostics through manufacturing, R & D, and logistics.
They use expert training, layered audits, and emergency drills to reduce risk and retain talent. With more than one year without a recordable incident, they have reinforced safety and retention across all operations.
Preventative activities— like emergency drills with Bothell Fire and near-miss investigations— reduce hazards before they escalate. The company’ s approach to environmental health and safety also boost retention.
“ Our team reflects Washington’ s multicultural fabric.”
— Karma Lee, founder, Bobae Coffee & Tea, winner of the Diversity Award winter 2026 31