Rochester Business Journal has selected First American Equipment Finance as a 2026 Elevating Women Award winner.
The Elevating Women Awards honor companies and organizations that have demonstrated tangible efforts and documented results in supporting and empowering women. Organizations were evaluated on their documented hiring and promotion of women; leadership positions held by women; advocacy for the cause of women internally and externally; and efforts to cultivate the next generation of women professionals. The winners were selected by the Rochester Business Journal leadership team.
“We are honored to be recognized as a 2026 Elevating Women honoree by the Rochester Business Journal,” said Heather Ayers, Vice President, Business Development and Chair of First American’s Women in Business employee resource group. “This recognition reflects First American’s long-standing commitment to creating opportunities for women to grow, lead, and succeed. Through mentorship, professional development, community engagement, and the support of our Women in Business ERG, we continue to invest in building a culture where women are empowered to advance their careers and make a meaningful impact.”
First American continues to exceed industry benchmarks for the representation and advancement of women, with 46% of colleagues being women, along with 36% of senior leadership positions and 43% of executive positions being held by women. Advancement of women at First American continues to flourish, with women earning 51% of all promotions during the last fiscal year. These results reflect the company's ongoing commitment to developing female talent and expanding leadership opportunities across the organization.
First American’s vision is to become the best company to work for, and the best company to work with. In 2026, Fortune magazine and Great Place to Work® ranked First American as the #1 Best Workplace in New York (10-999 FTE). Energage named First American the #1 Top Midsize Workplace in Rochester (125-399 FTE). USA Today and Energage ranked First American #5 nationwide (150-499 FTE category) on the Top Workplaces USA list. Best Companies Group named First American as the #1 Best Company to Work for in New York (250+ FTE). In 2025, Fortune magazine and Great Place to Work® ranked First American as a Best Medium Workplace™, a Best Workplace in Financial Services & Insurance™, and a Best Workplace for Parents™. First American was also recognized on the 2024 PEOPLE® Companies That Care list.