At Copper Mountain Technologies (CMT), every role contributes to one mission – enabling engineers worldwide to achieve their full potential with innovative RF test and measurement solutions. This philosophy drives their hiring process.
With its base in Indiana, an R&D office and service center in Cyprus, and sales offices in Singapore, London, and Miami, Copper Mountain Technologies has a global workforce. The company, which develops innovative RF test and measurement solutions for engineers worldwide, prioritizes candidates who bring more than just technical skills. The company seeks people invested in their work and the company’s goals.
It Takes a Village
At Copper Mountain Technologies, they believe that to deliver on their mission “takes a village.” From the design team creating VNAs that deliver the best performance at the lowest possible cost, and the sales team consulting with the customer on the best instrument for their application, to applications engineers helping optimize automation code for measurement, to order fulfillment that makes sure that ordered accessories will work with the ordered instrument, and to calibration technicians offering the customer a loaner instrument while theirs is being verified, every person at the company is in a customer success role.
The production team at CMT often exceeds planned output to ensure they can meet customers’ urgent needs for additional instruments. Employees at the company are not merely filling roles; they are key players in the company’s success story. The approach has worked for over 13 years.
People-Centric Approach
Copper Mountain Technologies has consistently found team members who bring passion and problem-solving to their roles. Their people-centric approach is an example in the industry.
The company values individuals with an analytical mindset. They seek employees who are curious, constantly striving for innovation, and unwilling to settle for simply completing tasks as instructed.
CMT encourages team members to ask questions and share their opinions when they identify potential improvements in processes, procedures, workflows, products, or software solutions. The organization prioritizes growth and adaptability, preferring employees who share this commitment to progress and innovation.
The Frost and Sullivan award-winning company believes that individuals who are passionate about making a positive impact on customers’ work and contributing to collective success are the best fit for their team.
Benefits That Attract and Retain Top Talent
In a competitive market, employee benefits are more than perks. They’re a retention strategy.
Employees at Copper Mountain Technologies enjoy a range of key benefits that not only support their personal and professional development but also enhance their work-life balance. These benefits are designed to attract and retain top talent, ensuring that every team member feels valued and supported.
One of the standout benefits is the company’s 401(k) plan, which offers a 3% company match. This initiative helps employees plan for their long-term financial future, providing a sense of security and peace of mind.
The company also offers a generous Paid Time Off (PTO) policy, including vacation days and sick leave, which is crucial for fostering a healthy work-life balance. Employees are encouraged to take the time they need to rest and recharge, knowing that their well-being is a priority. For the roles that permit it, CMT provides remote work options, allowing employees to enjoy flexible work environments. This flexibility is especially beneficial for those who value the ability to work from home or need to adjust their schedules to meet personal needs.
Further, Copper Mountain Technologies supports employees’ ongoing professional growth by offering sponsorship for job-related education and training. This commitment to professional development empowers employees to expand their skill sets, stay ahead in their careers, and contribute even more effectively to the company’s success.
Lastly, flexible work hours are available to accommodate employees’ educational pursuits and career advancement. By offering tailored hours, CMT ensures that employees can strike a balance between their work, education, and professional growth. These benefits contribute to a dynamic, supportive work environment that nurtures both personal and professional success.
Overcoming Challenges in a High-Stakes Environment
Small, high-tech companies like Copper Mountain Technologies face unique challenges. Everyone wears multiple hats, and things change quickly. Adaptability, initiative and stamina are non-negotiable traits.
The company addresses this reality early. During interviews, candidates are asked to reflect on whether they thrive in such environments. Once hired, employees receive mentorship and support to navigate the workload. Management encourages experimentation, even if mistakes happen, fostering a culture of resilience.
For instance, the workforce of Copper Mountain Technologies demonstrated resilience in the face of adversity. When Russia invaded Ukraine, the company made a decisive move, relocating its engineering and manufacturing operations out of Russia. The company actively supports Ukrainians by employing them, donating VNAs, and contributing to charitable efforts.
In 2022, CMT demonstrated adaptability by establishing an R&D office and service center in Cyprus. This strategic move also required rebuilding its supply chains and forming new production partnerships with companies in the U.S., Israel, South Korea, and other regions. Despite the challenges of this transition, CMT remained dedicated to providing exceptional customer service.
This approach helps employees not only survive but thrive in a dynamic workplace.
Measuring Success with Clear Goals
Copper Mountain Technologies is certified under ISO 9001 standards, which ensures quality across its operations. The company uses Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to track success.
These metrics focus on product quality, customer satisfaction, and overall performance. They track and review those on a regular basis to keep focused on how the employees are performing in relation to what their customers expect when they work with CMT.
CMT also has company and department goals set annually. These goals and metrics are tracked throughout the year to ensure the whole of the team is working towards the agreed upon growth goals. This ensures that the company is moving forward together and not moving in different, conflicting directions. This unified growth enables them to keep the focus on how what everyone is doing supports their customers.
Encouraging Creativity and Innovation
Copper Mountain Technologies believes innovation starts with empowerment. Employees are encouraged to own their work and propose improvements. From day one, CMT communicates that fresh ideas are welcome.
Team members can share feedback during regular meetings or in informal discussions with management. Ideas for better processes, workflows, or products are met with enthusiasm rather than resistance.
Research shows companies that prioritize employee engagement outperform competitors. A study by Gallup revealed that highly engaged teams see a 17% boost in productivity. Within this frame, CMT’s open-door policy creates a culture where creativity thrives. Employees know their contributions matter, which drives them to think bigger and aim higher.
Copper Mountain Technologies also focuses on its local community. Based in Indianapolis, the company partners with organizations like Conexus Indiana Advanced Industries Council to advance technological innovation in the state.
With a people-centric approach, Copper Mountain Technologies sends a strong message to business owners – invest in your people, and they will invest in your mission.
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Copper Mountain Technologies is Investing in People and State-of-the-Art Technology