Manufacture Alabama recently unveiled its new Diversify initiative meant to foster diversity and inclusion in manufacturing. The initiative is directed towards “multiple dimensions of human diversity, specifically those that are linked to conditions resulting from prejudice and discrimination,” according to a press release from Manufacture Alabama.
It was established to provide resources and strategies to achieve a work culture that “values diversity as evidenced by attitudes, policies and practices,” the release said.
“Diversify addresses one of the most important challenges that the manufacturing industry must address – creating a culture of inclusion and diversity from the highest ranks all the way down to the shop floor,” said George Clark, president and CEO of Manufacture Alabama. “Manufacture Alabama is committed to the progress of diversity and inclusion through this important initiative. Promoting a diverse culture of inclusivity is crucial to the ongoing success of the association and to the success of our manufacturers.”
The initiative will be led by a council consisting of industry leaders from across Alabama, including Senior Vice President of Governmental and Corporate Affairs for Alabama Power Quentin P. Riggins
The full list of committee members includes
- Napoleon Bracy, Jr., Manager, Diversity & Inclusion, AUSTAL USA
- Quentin P. Riggins, Senior Vice President Governmental and Corporate Affairs, Alabama Power Company
- Angela Martin, Organizational Development Manager, Hunt Refining Company
- Richard Lehr, Shareholder, Lehr Middlebrooks Vreeland & Thompson, P.C.
- LaShaunda Holly, Communications and Workforce Development Manager, BASF
- Ashlen Loban, Administrative Coordinator, Manufacture Alabama
“I’m honored to work with partners committed to the hard work of finding solutions which promote unity, fairness and acceptance of all people in the manufacturing industry,” Riggins said. “No matter what company or industry we represent, we all have a responsibility to foster an inclusive culture and embrace diversity in order to build a better Alabama.”
