Vancouver , Jan. 24, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — British Columbia’s tech sector has expressed a strong willingness to do more when it comes to Diversity & Inclusion (D&I) practices, but is struggling with how to implement these practices, according to a new report from HR Tech Group.  The report, Diversity & Inclusion in the BC Tech Sector, highlights a desire for collaboration and implementation of impactful D&I strategies.  Findings from the report noted that 96% of organizations surveyed believe D&I is important to the success and competitiveness of their organization.

Based on interviews and recent data, the BC tech sector is motivated to employ underrepresented groups.  Currently less than 1% of BC tech jobs are held by First Nations and Indigenous Peoples or people with disabilities.  According to the 2017 HR Tech Group Salary Survey, pay equity is another continued concern, as women in BC tech earn 5-6% less than their male counterparts.

Recommendations from the report considered the resource constraints many BC tech companies face, examining the need for a collective effort and investment in a comprehensive multi-year plan.   Recommendations include:

• Increase industry’s D&I awareness and understanding of benefits
• Increase company’s D&I capability by engaging & educating CEOs/Senior Leaders and HR
• Drive D&I progress through reinforcement and measurement
• Increase the talent pool and its diversity
• Increase Reconciliation commitments and opportunities with First Nations and Indigenous Peoples

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