Vantaggi
Cascade Designs is one of the few remaining privately-owned outdoor equipment companies from the golden era of gear start-ups from the sixties and seventies. They've worked hard to offer competitive compensation in the areas I am familiar with. Senior management allows and encourages internal entrepreneurship in some forms--one of the key benefits of a company this size. The company rewards people who maintain a good attitude, work hard, and solve problems by giving them more independence and more responsibility. Top management prioritizes social and environmental issues by regularly donating equipment and supplies to emergency aid organizations and by instituting policies that minimize waste and chemical consumption. Made-in-USA is a primary focus, with over 70% of our products manufactured in our own factories. In my experience, the 'open-door' policy has been truly open and management has always shared an open ear.
Svantaggi
Advancement can take time, as turnover is very low and new positions are not often created. Also, like most companies, some roles are more satisfying than others and some groups have lower morale than others as a result. Compensation in the outdoor industry will generally be lower than some other industries, but there is a lifestyle element to the decision to work in this industry.