Pros
Best manufacturing employer in Central Illinois. Great place for minorities since accelerated promotions for 'diversity' goals in last 5 yrs. Friendly, professional work environment for the most part. Offices are basic but clean. Peoria is a decent small town/city to live in, little bit of everything and easy to get around, expensive though.
Cons
Cat has changed significantly worse in last 8 yrs. - Pay and benefits have been dramatically reduced to primarily boost profits. It has been well known at Cat for the last 10 yrs that John Deere pays better, no secret there. Barton last CEO who balanced all stakeholders needs reasonably well. No real career advancement beyond basic staff level, and that after MANY years. A management culture of heavy favoritism and nepotism for careers, not merit/ performance. Committee style of management is common to avoid direct accountability. Almost impossible to get rid of poor managers, which there are many. Many cost accountants in senior leadership, consequently poor market and product knowledge is common there. Not really a innovative company any longer. Recent heavy emphasis on diversity has demoralized many as less experienced and less qualified minorities are advanced quickly. Young high achievers should view Caterpillar primarily as a stepping-stone resume builder - a 3-5yr job, should be a backup choice.