Austin, Minn. – Cooperative Response Center, Inc. (CRC) has once again earned recognition as one of the Best Places to Work in Southeast Minnesota, as awarded by Workforce Development, Inc. This marks the 12th time CRC’s Austin facility has received this distinction.

For 2026, Workforce Development identified 15 standout employers across southeast Minnesota. Organizations were evaluated within three size categories: small (fewer than 70 employees), mid-size (71–150 employees), and large (more than 150 employees). CRC’s Austin Center was honored within the mid-size category.

“We’re incredibly proud to be recognized again as one of the best places to work in Southeast Minnesota,” said Shawna Johnson, CRC’s vice president of human resource development. “What makes this honor especially meaningful is that it reflects the experience of our employees. We strive to foster a workplace where people feel supported, valued, and empowered to grow, and this recognition reinforces that we’re moving in the right direction.”

Companies receiving the Best Workplace designation were celebrated during the 2026 Workforce Development Forum on Thursday, April 9, at the Rochester International Event Center in Rochester, Minn.

About CRC

CRC is a nationwide, cooperatively owned, 24/7 contact center and alarm monitoring center. Founded in 1992, CRC has steadily increased the size and scope of its operation with offices in Austin, Minn., Dunlap, Tenn., Abilene, Texas, and Kirksville, Mo. CRC serves over 575 members and associate members in 47 states, representing nearly 12.9 million consumers. Visit CRC on the web at www.crc.coop.