"Recommitting to DEI: Building a More Inclusive Workforce"

"Recommitting to DEI: Building a More Inclusive Workforce"

Introduction:

In recent years, the focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the corporate world has gained significant traction. Many companies have recognized the importance of creating a more diverse and inclusive workforce, not only for ethical reasons but also for the numerous benefits it brings. However, the current economic uncertainty and mounting challenges to diversity efforts have slowed down the progress. Now, more than ever, it is crucial for companies to recommit to DEI and find innovative ways to build a more inclusive workforce.

Education & Workforce Development:

One powerful way to address the challenges of DEI is through education and workforce development initiatives. Higher Ground Initiatives (HGI), a strategy consultant in education and healthcare, focuses on designing and implementing programs that facilitate career transition, inter-professional connections, and economic mobility. HGI offers a range of services, including career events and coaching, workforce training and apprenticeships, mentored research opportunities, and community and institutional partnerships.

The STEP-uHP Career Training & Coaching Model:

HGI's flagship model, the STEP-uHP Career Training & Coaching, is a prime example of their innovative approach. This initiative aims to train and coach aspiring healthcare students, particularly those from less-privileged backgrounds, into paid internships that address the current and emerging service needs in healthcare. Dr. George Agyapong, the founder of HGI, is a testament to the effectiveness of this model. As a first-generation immigrant and career changer, Dr. Agyapong utilized strategies such as paid internships and service in the US Army Reserve to customize his path to Harvard Medical School.

Building Workforce Solutions:

To truly recommit to DEI, companies must actively seek out partnerships with organizations like HGI to develop strategies that build workforce solutions. By collaborating with institutional and community stakeholders, companies can identify and mitigate the barriers that disproportionately affect people from less-privileged backgrounds. These partnerships can offer career events and coaching, workforce training and apprenticeships, and mentorship opportunities that provide the necessary strategic exposure, mentoring, and advocacy that individuals need to thrive in healthcare and STEM professions.

Actionable Advice:

• 1. Foster Internal Mentorship Programs: Companies should establish mentorship programs within their organizations. By pairing employees from diverse backgrounds with experienced mentors, individuals can receive guidance and support to navigate their careers successfully. This also creates a culture of inclusion and support within the company.

• 2. Invest in Skill Development: Companies should prioritize investing in skill development programs for their employees. By providing training and educational opportunities, companies can equip their workforce with the necessary tools to excel in their roles. This helps level the playing field and ensures that individuals from diverse backgrounds have equal access to growth opportunities.

• 3. Rethink Hiring Practices: Companies should critically examine their hiring practices and ensure they are free from bias. Implementing blind resume screening, diverse interview panels, and inclusive job descriptions can help attract a more diverse pool of candidates. It is essential to prioritize merit while actively seeking out diverse talent.

Conclusion:

As the push for DEI faces challenges in today's uncertain times, it is crucial for companies to recommit to creating a more inclusive workforce. Education and workforce development initiatives, like those offered by Higher Ground Initiatives, provide innovative solutions to mitigate the barriers faced by individuals from less-privileged backgrounds. By fostering partnerships, investing in skill development, and rethinking hiring practices, companies can take actionable steps towards building a more diverse and inclusive workforce. It is time for companies to step up and ensure that DEI remains a priority, not just in words, but in actions that drive meaningful change.