WGU Hosts Tech Workshop, Focuses on Diversity
WGU Hosts Pivotal Tech Workshop, Highlights the Need for More Diversity in the I.T. Sector During Tech Week Grand Rapids
In the world of technology, innovation isn’t just about new gadgets, software, or artificial intelligence—it’s also about the people who create and drive these advancements. A simple yet powerful conversation over coffee between John Rumery of West Michigan Tech Talent and Robert Upton, Jr., Strategic Partnerships Manager at WGU, ignited a monumental collaboration to address a pressing issue: the underrepresentation of people of color in the tech industry.
Their dialogue highlighted the stark realities of diversity, particularly in entry-level and leadership roles within tech. Recognizing the urgency of this issue, they laid the groundwork for a significant initiative that would culminate during Tech Week Grand Rapids, a platform dedicated to tackling diversity challenges head-on.
Launched in September 2022 by the Right Place Program, Tech Week Grand Rapids rapidly gained traction, evolving into one of the largest tech gatherings in the United States. By 2023, it attracted more than 13,000 participants and featured more than 70 events spanning diverse topics from AI and cybersecurity to entrepreneurship and inclusivity.
Left to right: Regional Vice President Alison Bell, Strategic Partnership Manager Robert Upton, Director Kyle Utter, Strategic Partnership Manager Matthew Warren and Lead Strategic Partnership Manager Krista Spencer.
A key event during Tech Week Grand Rapids 2024 was “Putting More Color in the Tech Sector,” hosted by WGU. This gathering, which welcomed around 100 attendees, was a crucial forum for discussing the systemic barriers that hinder the representation of people of color in tech.
One of the event's highlights was the keynote presentation by De'Lon Dixon, a distinguished technology leader and founder of Think Technologies. Dixon shared his professional insights and personal experiences, as he was often the only person of color on various tech teams throughout his career. His narrative resonated deeply, illustrating the broader trend of limited diversity in the industry.
Dixon’s presentation provided historical context, illuminating the persistent lack of access to employment opportunities and the crucial need for visibility and role models.
“We are not here to make anyone feel bad or point fingers for our issues,” Dixon said. “Instead, our goal is to raise awareness and inspire real solutions. Together, we can create a more inclusive and diverse tech community that benefits everyone.”
De’Lon also highlighted data from a recent study, “Diversity Matters Even More: The Case for Holistic Impact.” The study found that companies with ethnic diversity have a 39 percent increased likelihood of outperforming their industry peers financially. Additionally, companies with both ethnic and gender diversity in their executive teams are more likely to achieve above-average profitability.
Following his speech, a lively panel discussion featuring six local experts further explored the challenges and opportunities in promoting diversity within the tech landscape. These conversations underscored the collective commitment needed to foster an environment that embraces open-mindedness and shared passion for change.
The workshop was pivotal. The discussion and engagement further proved that Tech Week Grand Rapids is more than just an event; it’s a movement.
The Right Place Program has mobilized more than 100 influencers to strategize on transforming the Midwest into a tech hub, aiming to create 10,000 new tech jobs. The success of these ambitions is intricately linked to the commitment to diversifying the tech sector—a mission that events like “Putting More Color in the Tech Sector” champion with vigor.
The path to inclusivity in tech begins with conversations—those casual chats over coffee that can evolve into powerful collaborations. With continued dedication and actionable strategies, we can nurture a tech community that truly represents the diversity of our society. Tech Week Grand Rapids represented the best of the tech industry while highlighting the path forward, a future where everyone has a seat at the table.
