Sourcing Technology Talent Is Too Important To Be Politicized

Silicon Valley finds itself in unfamiliar and uncomfortable territory these days – smack in the middle of discussions on the role of diversity and inclusion in the sourcing of technology talent. The current debate centers on increasing concerns that a backwards attitude still exists among some technology companies. It’s an attitude that continues to question the perceived abilities (or lack thereof) of female and other diverse technology talent.

I’m not going to rehash this debate here. My objective is to raise a broader point. As a senior technology executive – I often wonder how it is that any technology leader believes a company can afford to harbor these kinds of outdated perceptions any longer.

To be clear, I understand that for generations – similar people tend to gravitate around other people just like them. And in a mobile social world – tribal affiliations are now more pronounced than ever. We all like to spend time with people who “get us” and social platforms allow us to gather around digital campfires of our choice. These are people who share our passions, background and struggles. But while the familiar pull of such tribal connections is understandable, applying these kinds of filters for how to best source skilled workers today seems very much out of date.

The fact is we need skilled talent, regardless of whether candidates are part of a tribe we recognize or not. The need is so great that really no technology leader has the luxury to look past or exclude anyone based on their background, gender or any other consideration that makes them unique.

At CenturyLink, our chief focus is how to welcome all skilled talent – wherever it comes from – in service to building and operating networks of the future. I’m talking about networks that bridge divides and open doors to the many new capabilities inherent in the Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence and other innovations not yet invented.

The importance of this and the enormity of our need is chiefly why I spend whatever free time I have trying to generate interest in technology careers among today’s young people. I can’t imagine using precious time to stoke divisions when we need help from so many.

Why are we now in this situation? Today, despite private and public sector partnerships encouraging young people to consider STEM careers – the need for technology talent continues to outstrip the supply. The pipeline just isn’t full enough. Happily, most people and organizations realize this and are doing something about it. In a Harvard-Harris Poll, an overwhelming majority, 81 percent, say hiring at big companies should be blind to gender and race. I agree. Diverse talent is needed to enable us to bring together and blend different perspectives to approach and creatively solve increasingly complex challenges.

It is difficult to think of anything we do that does not involve technology. At a time when even traditional automakers consider themselves software companies, technology is now the underlying foundation for most businesses. Diverse thinking is needed to innovate and create the products, services and networks of the future. It is an essential ingredient making up the overall recipe for innovation.

Diversity also helps us tackle pressing societal needs. Take the notion of good paying jobs. To succeed in business on the world stage, we need skilled hands and minds to build the kinds of revolutionary products and services of tomorrow because technology is already changing things today.

Lives are even at stake. We now see countless examples for how populations depend on digital tools to stay informed and educated or simply to stay connected. During man-made catastrophes like terrorism attacks to natural catastrophes like this year’s hurricanes, earthquakes and wildfires – network connectivity is often all people have to access lifesaving assistance.

As I settle into my role here at CenturyLink – a top objective for me is to bring in top talent to work alongside experienced people to further prepare our company to meet the challenges of the future as a digital company and a premier global network provider.

Hopefully the importance of this kind of opportunity makes sense to you – regardless of politics or whatever tribe you call home. Innovation is a big tent. We welcome you.