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In early 2020, Garfield Bowen was leading global R&D operations and project management for one of 3M’s largest divisions when he got a call from the chief human resources officer – a call that would completely change his career trajectory. A leadership position had been created to advance more of the company’s equity initiatives and they wanted to know if he would like to be considered. “I took some time to think about it because the emotions of the time were raw and real,” Garfield said. “I wanted to make sure that the company was really serious about doing this work and that this was something I could see myself getting behind to make a difference because I have a bias for action. If the company wasn’t serious about action, then I wouldn’t be the right candidate.”
During his 33-year tenure at 3M, Global Diversity and Inclusion Strategist Scott Morris has never been more excited to be a part of a company and movement that is helping affect people’s lives. It’s that excitement, mixed with his incredible passion and leadership, that has led to some of 3M’s biggest equitable actions in the past year. “This is a defining time for all companies and 3M is no different in that respect,” Scott said. This is an opportunity for us to shape what we’re going to be for the next 100 years.”
3M Health Care is one of 3M’s four business groups that recently set new commitments to leverage the full capabilities of their people, products, philanthropy and partnerships. Each commitment is uniquely ownable for that business group, using bold and impactful actions focused on health equity, urban safety and mobility, homeownership and training in skilled trades.
3Mers Dr. Cristina Thomas, global R&D services director, and Jackie Berry, 3Mgives global communications manager, have a combined 50+ years of dedication and passion for bringing science to life. Above all else, the two share excitement for their recent work together to create 5 million STEM and skilled trade learning experiences for Black/African American, Hispanic/Latino and underrepresented individuals by the end of 2025. This goal was born out of 3M’s overall commitment to creating greater equity in its communities, business practices and workplaces.
The role individuals play within a company can enact change. But when you share that role with an entire network of people, the work of advancing social justice and racial equity starts to make wider systemic change.
When Charlene Vance, a customer operations leader for the Transportation and Electronics Business Group, started working in corporate America 20 years ago, she had a strict personal rule to not talk about race, politics or religion at work. In 2020, after the killing of George Floyd, that changed. “I could not afford to stay silent anymore,” said Vance. “I have two beautiful daughters and we want to do it for them and the next generation coming up.”
3M employees and partners are some of the most innovative and impassioned people you will meet. So much that when the world’s inequalities were raised to a monumental level that made many people ask, “what should I do,” 3Mers and community partners were quick to follow up with, “I have some ideas on how we can make a difference. I want to help make the world a better place.” These individuals are advocates for social justice, diversity, equity and inclusion who are going above and beyond, volunteering their extra time to join in the greater effort to making a difference for everyone. While the long-lasting, equitable change we as a company want to make requires everyone to take part, it is important to take a moment to recognize the individuals who are influencing and leading the charge. Join us as we lift up the voices of those who are driving change and highlight what they are doing in partnership with 3M to create greater equity in our workplace, communities, and in our business practices.
As part of our overall commitment to creating greater equity in our communities, business practices and workplaces, 3M is setting a new global, education-focused goal. The company will advance economic equity by creating five million unique STEM and Skilled Trades learning experiences for underrepresented individuals by the end of 2025. “As a global science, technology and manufacturing company that operates across an incredible number of industries, 3M has the unique capability and opportunity to introduce all people to STEM and trades skills careers,” said Vice President of Community Relations, Michael Stroik. “That introduction can start with an experience that gives someone a peek of what could be or fully opens their mind to a path of opportunities they may or may not have ever been thought about. We want to be the catalyst to that spark, five million times over.”
3M women are stepping up and making a difference during the pandemic all while taking on their normal everyday responsibilities. Find out how five 3Mers are managing their work-life balance one year into the pandemic.
For 3Mers who graduated from HBCUs, the impact of their education on the contributions they bring to work is evident. Providing the opportunity for others to experience and gain an education from the historical institutions is imperative. That’s why 3M is partnering with N.C. A&T State University and UNCF. Check out all the details of the two new collaborations.
