73% of employees rate the university system as an exceptional employer, outperforming the national average by 16 points.
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — For the fifth consecutive year, the University of Tennessee System has earned its certification as a great place to work.
The Great Place to Work Certification is determined entirely on feedback from UT employees regarding their workplace experience. This year, 73% of employees rated the UT System as a great place to work — 16 points higher than the average U.S. company. Great Place to Work is the global authority on workplace culture, employee experience and leadership behaviors proven to deliver employee retention and increased motivation.
“Great places to work don’t happen by accident. They’re built by people who care about what they do and the difference they can make for others,” UT System President Randy Boyd said. “Our employees are the reason UT can serve students, support our campuses and institutes, and make Tennessee stronger. Our tremendous employees are critical to helping us build the greatest decade in the history of UT.”
Among the top statements gathered from UT employees, the 2026 survey found:
- 87% feel they’re able to take time off from work when necessary.
- 85% feel good about the ways the UT System contributes to Tennessee communities.
- 84% are proud to tell others they work at the UT System.
- 84% say new employees are made to feel welcome upon joining the university.
“We are incredibly honored to once again be recognized as an employer of choice,” said Tomi Rogers, interim chief human resources officer for the UT System. “Earning the Great Place to Work Certification is a remarkable achievement in itself, and to have done so five consecutive years is a testament to the trust and dedication of our UT employees. Their commitment drives our success, and we are truly grateful for their role in earning this recognition.”
According to Great Place to Work research, job seekers are 4.5 times more likely to find a great boss at a certified great workplace. Additionally, employees at certified workplaces are 93% more likely to look forward to coming to work, are twice as likely to be paid fairly, and have a fair chance at promotion.
To learn more about careers at the UT System, visit our jobs and careers webpage.
