enABLE iERG launch @Eaton

I am incredibly proud to share that this week Eaton launched enABLE, a new inclusion employee resource group (iERG) for people with disabilities or special needs. This iERG is a fantastic next step in Eaton’s journey to be a model of inclusion and diversity.

We’ve been at this for several years, building iERGs as networks to support and connect employees, including women, veterans, LGBT, and many others. The progress has been impressive and you can see their impact in how we are of attracting, developing and retaining new and diverse talent. I am excited enABLE is joining the list. With a wife who teaches special education and family members with special needs, I have a personal passion for supporting those around us with special needs.   

Not only is it the right thing to do, there are also critical business reasons to support and foster diverse and inclusive work environments. Here’s why:

1. The best and most innovative ideas come from bringing together diverse perspectives. Diversity of thought, experiences and perspectives bring new solutions to solve problems, unlocking innovation and driving growth.
2. Our employees want to give their best and we need to create a culture where they are at ease bringing their full, and best, selves to work. To get there, employees need to feel a sense of belonging in the workplace. Groups like enABLE play a critical role in helping employees feel that sense of belonging, by making it clear they are valued, and by connecting them with a network of employees for support, development and more.
3. Companies must evolve, relying on new and diverse ideas to help them maintain relevance in an ever-changing world. Diverse employee perspectives offer valuable insights into market trends, customer needs, and talent preferences.  They are a rich source of intelligence to help companies develop better offerings, policies and practices for employees, customers and other stakeholders alike.

I couldn’t be prouder that we are taking this step at Eaton. I look forward to working closely with Eaton enABLE as they launch, grow, and transform our culture, teaching us along the way!