Begin 2024 on the right note by earning a certificate that symbolizes your commitment to becoming a catalyst for inclusion. This challenge is open to individuals at all levels within the organization, acknowledging and celebrating the dedication of everyone striving to drive inclusivity.

The 21-Day DEI Challenge program empowers leaders to become drivers of inclusion in their own organizations, providing them with the skills, knowledge, tools, and confidence to lead inclusively. Learners of all levels and experiences are encouraged to participate. Your engagement will amplify our resolve to transform the manufacturing industry, reduce the equity gap, and level the playing field for all.

21-Day IMEC DEI Challenge Experience:

Kickoff Date: January 17th

Participants will have the opportunity to meet their peers. Come prepared to share why you have joined the 21-Day Challenge or what you would like to accomplish in the next 21 days. There will be time for questions and setting expectations for the challenge.

Pre-work: Read DEI 101 for Manufacturers.

Practice Assignments:

Participants will receive weekly assignments to read, watch, or listen to, as well as self-reflection questions or activities for their personal journey.  Participants are encouraged to reflect on and practice what they learned. Practicing is meant to build skills and confidence. Content builds on previous learnings. Optional assignments will be provided for those who have the flexibility and time available for continued learning.  

Weekly Virtual Discussions: Time Commitment: 90 minutes

Every Wednesday from January 17th to February 7th, from 9:00am – to 10:30 a.m.

The virtual facilitator-led group discussions reinforce concepts learned throughout the week and offer the opportunity for questions. Learners can gain insights from their peers as well as unique and personalized input from the expert facilitator.  

DEI Assessment and Action Plan: Time Commitment: 60 minutes

The assessment is an approach to determining your organization’s diversity, equity, and inclusion posture and identifying opportunities for improvement to elevate company culture and drive advancements across your organization. The action plan, along with a journey map, will guide you through the next steps to increase inclusion and begin to transform the culture of your team.

Certificate of Completion

Upon completion, you will walk away with a certificate that you can display physically or digitally to showcase your accomplishments. To receive the certificate, you will need to: 1) attend weekly virtual discussions; 2) complete the practice assignments; 3) complete the IMEC DEI Assessment; and 4) submit a copy of your action plan.

Cost: 79.00

1 hour coaching session with facilitator is included in the 21-day challenge.  

Facilitator:

Paola Velasquez, Director of DEI in Manufacturing, IMEC

Paola Velasquez has a long tradition in manufacturing. Her parents worked and retired from the industry, and she learned of the value of manufacturing at a young age. Paola joined the manufacturing workforce at the beginning of her college years and later went on to gain experience in academia, business, and healthcare. Because of this, she brings a different perspective to the manufacturing industry. Her career has been marked by her passion for leading diversity and inclusion training. For over 20 years, she has worked with the underserved and underrepresented population, and has created and led sustainable programs. She has facilitated trainings like Unconscious Bias, Becoming an Ally, Understanding our Privileges, Brave, Bold Conversations, and Values Exercises—all aimed at addressing the skills gap and raising multicultural awareness. As Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Manufacturing at IMEC, she continues to do the same for manufacturers and facilitate job opportunities in ways that reduce the Illinois manufacturing equity and skills gap.