Midea's Commitment to Growth & Inclusion
Author: | Margaret Mowrer |
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In a world of career possibilities, Midea stands out as a company that empowers talent through hands-on learning, mentorship, and collaboration.
For new hires like Allison Kling, Midea’s supportive culture creates an environment that helps unlock untapped potential and career fulfillment. After initially joining Midea as a Human Resources Intern, Kling quickly experienced the company’s dedication to growth, transitioning to a full-time role as Human Resources Specialist just four months later.
Midea America, a leader in the home appliance industry, employs over 150,000 people across 195 countries. Its products span air treatment, refrigeration, kitchen appliances, laundry and floor care, reaching millions of households globally. Headquartered in Parsippany, New Jersey, with research hubs in Kentucky and California, Midea America focuses on creating innovative, user-friendly solutions that enhance everyday life. The company’s mission is to provide appliances that not only perform efficiently but also make home moments more meaningful for its U.S. customers.
Throughout her professional journey with the company, Kling credits Midea’s inclusive and supportive work culture as a key factor in her career growth. This commitment to inclusiveness is at the core of Midea’s vision, where creating a welcoming environment is integral. The company’s mission is reflected in its brand promise: “to provide surprisingly friendly solutions for those who cherish the small, meaningful moments at home.” Recently, Midea embraced a new motto, "Midea - make yourself at home," capturing its dedication to making every interaction feel personal, comfortable, and aligned with its values.
“Midea’s environment and work culture is what grabs attention. Everyone here, while periodically stressed with deadlines and projects, is always supportive of one another,” Kling said. “We hold monthly events, from office-wide gatherings to coffee chats to lunch-and-learns, where employees can network, laugh and, of course, enjoy delicious food. It’s an environment that fosters growth and rewards those who put forth effort.”
Kling plays a pivotal role as the organizer of Midea’s co-op program at the Midea America Research Center. She manages all aspects of the program, including student recruitment. Kling ensures that both managers and mentors are prepared and that students feel supported throughout their co-op rotations. Her efforts contribute to a seamless experience, fostering an environment that promotes success and professional growth.
“Our co-op program is multifaceted,” Kling said. “Co-ops work hands-on with product divisions to research, design, prototype and test projects throughout the semester. They participate in the ASPIRE (Applied Skills in Practical Innovation and Real-world Engineering). In ASPIRE, co-ops will go through the entire design process over the course of the semester in groups of 6-8. With the aid and guidance of our technical mentors, each group will analyze market trends, ideate a product (or a product feature), and move through the various design stages until they have a functional concept. During this time, co-ops are exposed to the intricacies of electronics, IoT, DFMEA, metals, industrial design, and more!”
Kling emphasized the program’s value, noting that mentorship is at the heart of the experience, empowering co-ops to thrive and reach their full potential.
“Midea’s co-op program offers an immersive, hands-on learning experience," she said. "Co-ops function as full-time employees, gaining invaluable real-world experience in the home appliance industry with the support of mentors.”
Looking ahead, Midea America plans to deepen its engagement with universities to cultivate future talent.
“We look forward to working more closely with Purdue in the years to come," Kling said. "Be on the lookout for Midea at various university events and career fairs.”
Related Link: https://www.opp.purdue.edu/Employers/news/mideas-commitment-to-growth-and-inclusion