At Rogers, we are on a journey to broaden our talent pipeline and increase leadership diversity, to help us deliver on our Inclusion and Diversity strategy and commitments under the Black North Initiative.
Since 2020, we have worked with the Black Professionals in Tech Network (BPTN/OBSIDI) to attract and retain Black talent within the technology industry. As a key part of our collaboration, Rogers was a proud leadership sponsor at the 2022 annual BFUTR Global Tech Summit. The event brings together 20,000 Black tech professionals and allies across North America annually to network, connect and learn about the latest developments in the tech industry.
Leaders, recruiters and inclusion and diversity committee members from our technology team participated in the event in onsite recruitment and panel discussions. Tricia McCool, Director, IT/Digital – Technology was a panelists and moderator at the summit. She is Co-Chair of the Black Leadership Council, which was the driving force behind fostering Rogers’ collaboration with BPTN. She shares her experience with us and highlights the importance of continuing our work with organizations like BPTN, who are empowering Black professionals in tech.
What can you tell us about Rogers’ work with the organization, and why is it important to you?
If ever there were a time to address the gaps that continue to grow deeper within the Black community, it is now. Community collaborations like this require our leaders across various departments and sectors to come together. As a Black leader at Rogers, it is important for me to play a role in building and fostering our relationship to help bridge the gap within the Black community. This work enables us to continue to act upon our commitments. Our recruitment team shared that 400+ Black candidates expressed interest in Rogers, which directly enables our ability to create a talent pipeline of Black professionals – another step forward in our journey.
Rogers was instrumental in bringing this global summit to life. What was the impact on you as a participant and a Black leader at Rogers?
The summit platform was a space for global panelists and participants to have transparent conversations about racial trauma, the Black experience, networking, allyship, the role organizations can play through community partnerships, and so much more. Our recruitment teams were amazing to work with, and they did not waver. They were determined to recruit for current opportunities within technology. For me personally, it reinforced my goal of helping to forge a path forward by connecting Rogers to Black talent. I’m grateful for all the rock star team members that worked with me on this summit (you know who you are). You made all the difference!
Rogers is committed to creating a truly diverse and inclusive culture. What do you see as the next steps for Rogers or our employees?
I will add one of my favourite quotes here from Barack Obama: “We are the change we seek.” It’s time for action. We all need to play a role in continuing to grow a diverse and inclusive culture. Amplify voices, be a sponsor, mentor, advocate, and seek collaboration opportunities. Learn what role you can play.