The worker shortage and skills gap continue to be an issue for many companies across the country. Join Paola A. Velasquez, IMEC’s Director of DEI in Manufacturing, and discover how companies are approaching diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) to elevate company culture and drive advancements across their organization. Paola will walk you through steps of learning and improvement using IMEC’s DEI Journey map tool and share insights on companies that are creating pathways for tomorrow’s workforce.
After attending this session attendees will be able to:
- Learn DEI concepts & the benefits in the workplace.
- Receive tips to attract & retain talent.
- Uncover solutions to implement today.
Presenter: Paola Velasquez
Paola’s family has a long tradition in manufacturing. Her parents worked and retired from the industry, so she learned of the value of manufacturing at a young age. Paola joined the manufacturing workforce at the beginning of her college years and later went on to gain experience in academia, business, and healthcare. Because of this, she brings a different perspective to the manufacturing industry. Her career has been marked by her passion for leading diversity and inclusion training. For over 20 years, she has worked with the underserved and underrepresented population, and has created and led sustainable programs. Paola has facilitated trainings like Unconscious Bias, Becoming an Ally, Understanding our Privileges, Brave, Bold Conversations, and Value Exercises – all aimed at addressing the skills gap and raising multicultural awareness. As Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Manufacturing at IMEC (Illinois Manufacturing Excellence Center, part of the MEP National Network), Paola continues to do the same for manufacturers and facilitates job opportunities in ways that reduces the manufacturing equity and skills gap.