Construction Inclusion Week 2023 | Oct. 16-20

In the world of construction, the pillars of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are reshaping the industry, not only in terms of hiring practices but also in fostering a culture of respect and belonging. This Construction Inclusion Week, we are proud to showcase our unwavering commitment to these values at UMC. Through our efforts to hire and retain a diverse talent pool and work with a wide array of subcontractors and vendors, we are paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable construction landscape.

DEI is not about numbers, statistics, or quotas – it's about every one of our people and the collective strength we take from their unique perspectives, ambitions, and backgrounds. When we incorporate DEI into our business, we inspire better outcomes.

Building and Retaining a Diverse Talent Pool

At UMC, diversity starts at the foundation. We recognize that a diverse workforce brings fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and a richer tapestry of skills and experiences. Here are some of the steps we have taken to build and nurture a diverse talent pool:

• Recruitment Initiatives: We actively source talent from a variety of sources, including outreach to underrepresented communities, participation in job fairs, and collaborations with organizations focused on diverse talent development.
• Inclusive Hiring Practices: We have implemented inclusive hiring practices that emphasize skills, qualifications, and potential rather than demographic factors. Our hiring team is trained to minimize unconscious biases during the recruitment process.
• Career Development: Once onboard, we provide equal opportunities for professional growth and development. We offer training and resources to help our employees reach their full potential.

Working with Diverse Subcontractors and Vendors

In addition to our internal efforts, we extend our commitment to DEI to our external partnerships:

• Supplier Diversity: We actively seek out and engage diverse subcontractors and vendors. This not only promotes economic empowerment within marginalized communities but also encourages diversity in the construction industry at large.
• Inclusive Procurement: Our procurement processes prioritize fairness and transparency, ensuring that all businesses, regardless of size or ownership, have equal opportunities to work with us.
• Partnerships: We collaborate with organizations that share our commitment to DEI, further expanding our network of diverse partners and suppliers.

Construction Inclusion Week is an opportunity to reflect on our journey towards a more inclusive construction industry. At UMC, we believe that diversity, equity, and inclusion are not just ideals to aspire to, but essential values that drive innovation and progress in our field. As we continue our commitment to DEI, we invite others in the industry to join us in this important journey toward a more inclusive and equitable construction landscape. Together, we can build a brighter future for all.