Eric Warren, a recent CCS alumnus, was recently selected to join a panel hosted by the SC Council on Competitiveness. The panel, part of their SC Tech Webinar Series: Diversity in Tech, brought together experts to discuss the challenging topic of diversity and inclusion within the tech industry.

Eric Warren, one of four panelists, was among South Carolina experts featured in SC Tech panel. To watch, visit SC Council on Competitiveness YouTube channel.

WILEY, a global leader in research and education, released a report this August stating "the pace of progress is too slow in addressing the lack of diversity in U.S. technology-focused jobs and reveals insights that underscore the challenges companies must address to build more diverse workforces." While industries and companies across the nation continue efforts to develop new strategies, the tech industry is no different. It's not necessarily due to a lack of funding either, spending eight billion dollars a year. The WILEY report "proves that investment alone isn't enough to achieve equity in the workplace."

We sat down with Eric to talk about this experience and just some of the topics they covered.

You were recently selected for a panel by the SC Council on Competitiveness. This particular panel was a part of a series, SC Tech Webinar Series: Diversity in Tech". What was this experience like?

I was shocked that anyone would consider me to speak on any panel! I am very honored (still) and I'm so grateful that Lelia thought of me when asked. I think I was able to provide a unique experience being that I am a black, gay man who is new to the industry but also have previous work experience with a job that was tech-adjacent.

The panel didn't end up covering much on the correlation between (younger) employees in the workplace and the billions of dollars US companies are spending on diversity and inclusion efforts. As the recent graduate on the panel, what is your take on this particular issue?

I wish we had more time to discuss ageism in the tech space. It should be treated like any other issue. We should try to encourage older applicants to apply in the tech space. They have experience and discipline that is good for any company and we should want to make space for them. On the flip side, when bringing in younger people, companies should be prepared to properly invest in their newest and youngest employees. For their current roles, of course, but investing in new employees and their professional development benefits both the company and those that choose to work there.

What advice do you have for younger employees that are experiencing a lack of diversity and inclusion in the workplace? Whether they are facing it directly or witnessing it happening.

Be yourself. You have to learn to constantly advocate on your behalf for what you need in order to do good work. It's important that people have a space to speak openly about what it is they need to thrive professionally. If you are in an environment that you feel is not inclusive, you need to speak up and advocate to those that can make changes. Even for those that are just starting out who maybe don’t know what it is they need to advocate for, communicate as you figure it out! Your ideal environment will evolve as you do. Being vocal about what’s important to you in the workspace will also help determine whether or not you are in the right space, right company. Their responses will tell you the kind of company they are.

I also would advise trying to create relationships with people who look like you, who have been in the space, for guidance.

Can you share something you learned from hearing your fellow panelists?
One thing that has been at the top of mind is that there is no quick fix to diversity and inclusion. It is something that requires a long-term strategy. We often put the task on those in charge and it's really not up to just them. This requires the efforts of many people to help change the situation.

What else do you think people should know?

Your workplace environment should be reflective of what's in the world. Not only making sure there are different people present, but welcoming and inviting of different cultures as well. Reflective of society and inclusive of all that society has to offer. Not being afraid to say that to coworkers and to your employer to advocate for those changes to happen is important. Like I mentioned, if they are serious about making changes they will be responsive to their employees vocalizing their concerns or desires for the company.

It was a good experience overall. I'm appreciative that those conversations are happening at all. I too have been ignorant of the lack of diversity and inclusion in the tech field. This is a learning experience for all of us.

Diversity in Tech: CCS Featured Panelist