Avangrid, Inc., a significant player in the sustainable energy sector in the United States, has been recognized as one of America’s Best Employers for Diversity in 2024 by Forbes. This prestigious acknowledgment comes at a time when diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are increasingly becoming crucial factors in corporate success and social responsibility.

Based in Orange, Connecticut, and part of the global energy giant Iberdrola Group, Avangrid operates both networks and renewables businesses across 24 U.S. states. With a substantial asset base of approximately $44 billion and serving over 3.3 million customers, Avangrid is deeply entrenched in the energy infrastructure of New York and New England, while also managing a robust portfolio of renewable energy generation facilities across the country.

Avangrid’s commitment to DEI is evidenced by a range of strategic initiatives that aim to enhance workplace culture and equity. As articulated by the CEO, Pedro Azagra, the company is dedicated to developing a workplace environment that not only values diverse perspectives but actively promotes career longevity and satisfaction by integrating these values into their corporate ethos.

One of the central pillars of Avangrid’s DEI strategy includes fostering diverse representation within its workforce, particularly within leadership roles. The organization has set ambitious targets, such as achieving 40% of women in executive positions and 50% in senior leadership roles by 2025 and 2030, respectively. These goals align with broader industry and societal movements towards gender and racial equity, especially significant in sectors traditionally dominated by male leadership.

Avangrid has also formed a DEI Executive Council and implemented mandatory inclusion training for its staff. This training is designed to empower employees with the necessary skills to contribute to an inclusive work environment, ensuring that each member of the team can thrive and feel supported.

Additionally, the introduction of seven Business Resource Groups (BRGs) has been a testament to Avangrid’s dedication to creating a supportive space for employees from diverse cultural, ethnic, and social backgrounds. These groups help in advocating for inclusivity and provide a platform for voices that might otherwise be marginalized.

The recognition by Forbes was based on a rigorous assessment conducted by Statista, where over 170,000 employees from large U.S. companies were surveyed anonymously. The participants evaluated their employers on various aspects of diversity including age, gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, and overall diversity practices.

In a time when the corporate world is scrutinizing its role in societal equity, Avangrid’s recognition by such a prestigious publication underscores the importance of integrating DEI into the core strategic objectives of a company. As the energy sector, in particular, faces transformative shifts towards sustainability and clean energy, fostering an inclusive culture could be key to attracting the diverse talent necessary for driving innovation.

Avangrid’s progressive stance on diversity and inclusion not only positions it as an attractive destination for potential employees but also enhances its reputation among investors, customers, and regulatory bodies looking to support companies that prioritize social responsibility alongside financial performance.

In conclusion, Avangrid’s inclusion in Forbes’ list of America’s Best Employers for Diversity 2024 is not just a notable accolade but a clear indication of the company’s steadfast commitment to fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace. This recognition also places Avangrid at the forefront of addressing the broader cultural and societal challenges facing the highly impactful energy sector.