A. O. Smith Corporation, a leader in water heating and water treatment, has announced it has been recognized as a 2024 World’s Most Ethical Company by Ethisphere, a global leader in defining and advancing the standards of ethical business practices. 

This marks the first year A. O. Smith has been recognized, joining more than 135 other honorees, spanning 19 countries and 46 industries over the award’s 18-year run. 

“We have long believed our culture — namely our values and guiding principles — is a differentiator for our employees and customers, and this award recognizes that fact,” said Kevin Wheeler, president, chairman and CEO. “This designation is consistent with who we are and always have been. While it’s a new recognition, it’s not a new concept for A. O. Smith.” 

The World's Most Ethical Companies assessment is grounded in Ethisphere's proprietary Ethics Quotient^®, an extensive questionnaire that requires companies to provide over 240 different proof points on their culture of ethics; environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices; ethics and compliance program; diversity, equity, & inclusion; and initiatives that support a strong value chain. That data undergoes further qualitative analysis by Ethisphere’s panel of experts who spend thousands of hours vetting and evaluating each year's group of applicants.

“Through the rigorous review process, we see the dedication of these organizations to continually improving their ethics, compliance and governance practices to the benefit of all stakeholders,” said Erica Salmon Byrne, chief strategy officer and executive chair, Ethisphere. “Companies that elevate best-in-class cultures of ethics and integrity set a standard for corporate citizenship for their peers and competitors to follow.”

A. O. Smith’s values and guiding principles have steered the company throughout its 150-year history and helped make it into the thriving organization it is. 

“As we look back on what has made A. O. Smith successful all these years — and also look to our bright future ahead — this milestone year is the perfect time to achieve this recognition,” Wheeler said. “I want to thank our employees for their commitment to make this honor possible and for living our values every day.”

For more information about the award and to view the full list of honorees, visit www.worldsmostethicalcompanies.com.