Intel Leads the Charge For Diversity and Inclusion in Tech

15 Feb Intel Leads the Charge For Diversity and Inclusion in Tech

Intel is one tech company that not only ‘talks the diversity and inclusion talk,’ but really walks the walk. The company released its annual diversity data and the gains it has made with regard to diversity and inclusion, in a relatively short time period, are truly astounding.

Intel exceeded its hiring goal for 2015 to increase diverse hiring by 40% to 43.1%. Hires from underrepresented communities increased by 31%.

The company also increased its female workforce by almost 43%. African Americans now make up 3.5% of Intel’s workforce and women comprise 24.5%, outpacing the number of minorities in other large technology companies. Additionally, Intel increased the number of women in leadership roles.

Many of Intel’s diversity efforts were not solely focused on internal operations. In August, the chip maker collaborated with Georgia Tech, investing $5 million to boost a more diverse tech pipeline. The joint effort will benefit over 1,000 students in the next five years, providing mentorship, access to research opportunities, and scholarships.

Last June, Intel Capital launched a $125 million fund to invest in women and minority entrepreneurs, as part of its $300 million Diversity in Technology Initiative.

“As technology and markets continue to evolve, building and growing a workforce that is fully representative of the customers we serve and communities in which we operate is paramount to our success,” said Brian Krzanich, Intel’s CEO.

The company has set further goals for 2016, including reaching 45% diverse hiring in the U.S. with a new sub-goal of 14% hiring of underrepresented minorities. It’s also launching GROW—an employee program to promote personal growth and inclusion. Intel also plans to increase partnership with universities to keep diversifying the tech pipeline, and to work with diverse suppliers and entrepreneurs.

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