IBM named a Best Diversity Employer in Canada

By March 7, 2023

At IBM, we foster a culture of conscious inclusion and active allyship, where every IBMer can make a positive impact within the communities we serve while bringing our authentic selves to work. We are creating this culture through a more diverse and inclusive workforce, cultivating a flexible work environment, and advocating for equity – both inside and outside of IBM.

It is through this culture of inclusion that IBM has been recognized for the 5th time as one of Canada’s Best Diversity Employers by Mediacorp. Canada’s Best Diversity Employers is an editorial competition that recognizes employers across Canada that have exceptional workplace diversity and inclusiveness programs.

This recognition demonstrates  IBM’s work in diversity and inclusion is moving in the right direction and holds us accountable to remind us that much still needs to be done. The diversity and inclusion landscape is changing and we have to find new ways to change with it.

IBM Canada provides an environment for current and future employees to grow their career while curating an experience that allows for personal development. We continually re-evaluate our programs and policies, pulling together resources and learning offerings where IBM employees can take ownership of their inclusion journey.

For example, IBM is committed to skill 30 million people by 2023 via IBM SkillsBuild  or a paid returnship program for technical professionals through our Tech Re-entry program. With a recognition that one-size-fits-all educational programs are not effective, IBM offers programs ranging from technical education for teens at public schools and universities, that extend to paid, on-site IBM internships and apprenticeships.

 

Reasons for IBM Canada’s selection include the following:

  • IBM offers a Tech Re-Entry program for technical professionals who took a break from the workforce and are looking to restart their careers — the paid returnship program enables participants to work on projects that match their expertise, interest and abilities, pairs participants with a dedicated mentor, and offers the possibility of full-time employment.
  • IBM participates in the global Neurodiversity program to support recruitment and professional development opportunities for neurodivergent individuals and works with Ready, Willing and Able to expand neurodiverse recruitment.
  • IBM recently deployed the Elevate+ program in Canada to support female employees with executive potential. The program spans 12 to 18 months and includes leadership development, individual coaching, and sponsorship.

As we move forward, we understand there’s still much more to do. IBM Canada will continue to lean into our purpose and culture to bring about powerful and sustainable outcomes. This starts with creating a culture of belonging and inclusion and taking intentional steps to ensure that all our employees of all backgrounds can thrive.

 

Shola Agoro, Diversity & Inclusion Leader, IBM Canada

 
 

Tammy Kelly, Director, Human Resources, IBM Canada

 

More information and resources

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