From experience, I can tell you that after working with many of the Fortune 500 firms, companies with high reputations are virtually impenetrable by even a pro. Employees have vested interests in protecting their company and their careers. The simple truth is if an employer doesn't take care of their employees' interests, someone else will. The contracting industry has grown and is continuing to grow highly competitive, and companies with vision are attracting and keeping the best people.
"Bad employees" are present in all industries and nearly every owner has a few stories to tell. Interestingly enough, great candidates also have a few "bad company" stories as well. No matter what part of the country you reside in, there are only a handful of great companies, a large amount of average companies, and a few that are just plain horrible.