Maxar Intelligence Black and African Americans at Maxar (BAAM) ER...

Maxar's Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) are employee-led communities that promote diversity and inclusion within the company. The Black and African Americans at Maxar (BAAM) ERG is a community dedicated to fostering diversity, inclusion, and professional development for Black and African American employees within Maxar.

In this Q&A, we spoke with members of BAAM leadership, Joe Okafor and Vincent Lawrence, to learn more about the ERG's mission, impact, and the experiences of its members.

Whether you're a Maxar employee seeking to connect with like-minded individuals or simply interested in learning more about our commitment to diversity and inclusion, Joe and Vincent's insights are worth the read.

Understanding the BAAM ERG

Q: What inspired the creation of your ERG at Maxar?

• Joe: Our BAAM ERG is a dedicated community for Black and African American professionals at Maxar. We were born out of a shared desire for connection, support, and advocacy during challenging times. Our goal is to foster a workplace where everyone feels valued and respected. By amplifying Black voices, promoting diversity, and creating opportunities for professional growth, we strive to build a stronger, more equitable environment for all.

Q: What unique challenges does your ERG address within the company?

• Vincent: BAAM ERG is dedicated to addressing the challenges of limited representation and visibility for African American professionals within our company and the space technology industry. We're actively partnering with Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), engaging with minority organizations like the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE), and collaborating with our talent acquisition team to attract top minority talent. By highlighting our company's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, we aim to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all employees.

Being a Part of the BAAM ERG

Q: What does being a member of this ERG mean to you personally and professionally?

• Vincent: The BAAM ERG at Maxar has been instrumental in fostering a more inclusive workplace. Through initiatives such as professional development programming, educational workshops, and mentorship engagements, we are empowering African American professionals and creating opportunities for future generations. Being a member of this ERG has been personally rewarding and professionally beneficial, allowing me to contribute to a meaningful cause and build a strong network within the company.

Q: How has being involved in the ERG impacted your experience at Maxar?

• Joe: My BAAM ERG involvement has greatly enriched my Maxar experience. It's provided a supportive community, leadership opportunities, and a platform to advocate for DEI. I've been able to connect with like-minded colleagues, contribute to impactful projects, and make a positive impact on the company's culture.

The Impact of the BAAM ERG on Maxar

Q: What role does leadership play in supporting the ERG's goals and initiatives?

• Joe: Leadership plays a crucial role in the success of our ERG by providing resources, visibility, and demonstrating a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Their active engagement validates our mission, aligns our efforts with company objectives, and amplifies our voices. This support is essential for creating a more inclusive workplace and advancing the goals of our community.

Q: Can you share an example of a successful initiative or project your ERG has undertaken?

• Vincent: One of our most impactful initiatives was a professional development event featuring minority leaders from Maxar. Attendees gained invaluable insights into career advancement, navigating obstacles, and fostering a more inclusive company culture. To further enhance networking and learning opportunities, we also hosted a dinner and tech talk exclusively for our ERG members.

BAAMERG and Culture

Q: How does your ERG help to foster a sense of belonging among employees?

• Joe: Our ERG fosters belonging by:

Community Building: We create opportunities for members to connect and share experiences.

Celebrating Culture and Identity: We highlight our heritage and contributions through events and celebrations such as our virtual Juneteenth game show-style webinar.

Providing a Safe Space: We offer a supportive environment for open discussions and support.

Representation and Professional Growth: We advocate for our needs, ensure our voices are heard, and provide development opportunities.

Communicating the BAAM ERG's Value

Q: What advice would you give to other companies looking to establish ERGs?

• Vincent: Companies seeking successful ERGs should prioritize top-level leadership involvement. Executives must actively support ERG initiatives and educate middle management on their importance. While not always directly tied to revenue, ERGs foster a more inclusive company culture.

Q: What would you like non-employees to know about your ERG and its mission?

• Joe: BAAM is more than just an internal group-it's a community dedicated to fostering inclusivity, empowerment, and positive change. We invite others to join us in our mission to create a more equitable and inclusive environment for all. Our ERG is a testament to the power of collective action and solidarity, and we welcome your support and partnership.