On Saturday, October 31, American Engineering Corporation (AEC) welcomed approximately 90 employees and their family members and partners to AEC FAMILY DAY 2026 at its Okinawa headquarters.
The event gave families an opportunity to visit the workplace and learn more about what AEC employees do and the people they work with.
Introducing Families to the Workplace
The program included a presentation on AEC’s history and business, an office tour, the chance to try on safety vests and hard hats, and commemorative photos at a photo booth.
During the office tour, Human Resources staff introduced some of the work performed by employees. Children also showed curiosity as they explored their parents’ desks and workspaces.
Seeing the Workplace Through the Children’s Eyes
One child who tried on a fan-equipped work jacket said:
“It’s cool and comfortable!”
Another child, visiting the AEC office for the first time, said:
“It’s so big and spacious. Wow!”
Equipment that employees use regularly and an office that may seem familiar to those who work there offered the children something new to discover.
Understanding “I’m Off on a Business Trip to America!”
One participant shared a story about an employee who often leaves home for work saying, “I’m off on a business trip to America!”
After visiting the office for the first time, the employee’s partner was surprised by how different it felt from a typical Japanese office and said the visit helped explain the familiar phrase.
Another partner commented:
“The event staff and the employees who attended were all very friendly. It was good to see the kind of people my partner works with.”
Another family member shared:
“We do not usually talk about work at home, but Family Day gave us a chance to have an enjoyable conversation about it as a family.”
Families do not often have the opportunity to meet the people their loved ones work with. Through the event, they were able to see the workplace firsthand and gain a better understanding of the relationships among AEC employees.
AEC hopes Family Day helped families feel connected to the company and encouraged new conversations about work at home.
Thank you to everyone who helped plan and organize the event, and to all the employees and family members who joined us.
