Simply put, IBM wants the best-qualified people the world has to offer. So by design, not mandate, ours is a culture of inclusion.
At IBM we acknowledge, value and respect diversity. We draw on diversity of thought and experience to reflect the rich array of cultures representing our broad global customer base.
When you join IBM's diverse team you are encouraged to share your unique perspectives and capabilities. At IBM we recognize individual differences and appreciate how these differences provide a powerful competitive advantage and a source of great pride and opportunity in the workplace and marketplace.
We recognize that in order to foster diversity we need and want to create a work environment where all employees can realize their full potential. IBM provides ongoing education, diverse mentoring and networking opportunities, flexible work options, and accommodation in the workplace.
IBM employees know the strength of our commitment to diversity. By advancing these values, we only grow stronger. We welcome the world!
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Externally, IBM contributes to outreach activities that address the underrepresentation of segments of the population in the IT field.
Here are just a few of its initiatives:
Aboriginal
IBM supports a number of initiatives to attract Aboriginal youth to IT. IBM is a major sponsor of the National Aboriginal Career Symposium and partners with Concordia University, Lakehead University and the University of Manitoba to assist with outreach activities.
"The shortage of IT skills in Canada is in the tens of thousands of people. We can't afford to leave people out. So helping find ways to interest aboriginal youths is a win/win opportunity."
- past president and CEO IBM Canada, John Wetmore
Visible minorities
IBM reaches out to Black youth by conducting workshops at local youth centres and donating computers to facilitate learning.
IBM is a major sponsor of the Harry Jerome Awards recognizing the achievements of the Black community.
Women
IBM women conduct workshops in local schools to tell girls about the advantages of careers in computer-related fields. To date IBM has reached out to more than 9,000 girls and recently introduced an e-mentoring program to expand its scope.
People with disabilities
IBM joined forces with the Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB) to host a technology camp for visually impaired youth. Camp participants work with IBM mentors to develop a Web site and learn essential business skills.
When it comes to People with Disabilities, IBM is focused on three areas: employment of people with disabilities, product development for customers and employees with disabilities, and creating a working environment that is barrier-free and harassment-free for people with disabilities.