“An organization is defined by the people who shape it, and our people continue to set a high standard for excellence, not only in our commitment to the community but to each other,” says Police Chief Warren Driechel.
With the ongoing demands of policing, EPS has committed itself to building a culture that supports the needs of its employees. This commitment is once again being recognized by MediaCorp Canada Inc. in its annual search for exceptional workplaces.
MediaCorp assesses employers on eight criteria including workplace culture, benefits, training, and community involvement, and highlights organizations that are leading the way in workplace innovation and meeting the needs of a dynamic workforce.
“Our people bring their best every day, and the organization is committed to giving them a workplace where they can thrive. One makes the other possible,” says Director Donna Munro with the EPS Employee and Organizational Wellness Branch.
“For EPS, finding this balance is about more than innovative training programs and career development, it reflects a holistic approach to wellness and a culture of care for all employees.”
Wellness is crucial for police agencies, as operational stressors such as trauma and exposure to violence can impact both mental and physical health – contributing to burnout, relationship strain, and other long-term health challenges.
While EPS offers employees robust supports including access to fitness facilities, health spending accounts, and mental health practitioner benefits, the organization is also leading the way in peer-to-peer early intervention, creating meaningful opportunities for co-workers to check in with one another following stressful events.
EPS continues to set a new standard for police wellness by offering discretionary leave and reintegration programs, an operational stress intervention dog to provide comfort in work areas following critical incidents, and access to an onsite nurse practitioner to help expedite access to confidential clinical care.
These proactive wellness initiatives help foster resilience, reduce health risks, and create a supportive workplace culture for those who protect and serve the community. They also reaffirm the commitment employees show in looking out for one another – a defining characteristic of EPS as an employer.
“The Edmonton Police Service is an exceptional place to build a career,” adds Chief Driechel. “Our members bring professionalism, innovation, and heart to everything they do. Their efforts make EPS a Top Employer, and I am incredibly proud to see their commitment recognized once again.”
Learn more about careers with EPS at www.edmontonpolice.ca/joineps.
For more information on Alberta’s Top 85 Employers for 2026, visit www.canadastop100.com/alberta.