SAN FRANCISCO, Calif.— Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) has posted a 100 score on the 2016 Disability Equality Index (DEI) and was named one of the “2016 DEI Best Places to Work.” The company was one of only two energy companies that scored 100 on the survey, which was compiled by the U.S. Business Leadership Network (USBLN) and the American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD).
“People with disabilities are an important part of our community. We’re incredibly proud that our employees and Employee Resource Groups set the bar so high and are receiving this kind of recognition,” said PG&E Vice President of Talent Management and Chief Diversity Officer Laura Butler.
PG&E received a 100 score on the index for the second consecutive year. The survey, which is also in its second year, graded Fortune 500 and 1,000 companies on their activities in the workplace, supply chain and marketplace. Firms were rated on culture and leadership, enterprise-wide access, employment practices and community engagement and support services.
By receiving a top score on the DEI, according to the USBLN and the AAPD, “PG&E has demonstrated significant business leadership, going far beyond compliance activities, driving their business success through leading disability inclusion policies and practices.”
PG&E has shown its support of individuals with disabilities in various ways:
- The Arc San Francisco: PG&E has annually hosted interns from the non-profit organization through Project Search. This national program pairs young adults who have developmental disabilities with business and education partners who provide training and employment opportunities in a real world, immersion setting. The partnership was featured in a blog on sfgate.com.
- Access Network Employee Resource Group: Formed in 2010, this ERG has 400 members. The group is dedicated towards supporting and advocating for the inclusion of people with disabilities in PG&E’s workforce. Access Network has awarded $72,000 in college scholarships to 30 students since 2012. In addition, the ERG has sponsored and partnered with community-based disability organizations such as East Bay Innovations, Canine Companions for Independence and Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired.
- Spend with Service Disabled Veteran Enterprises: PG&E’s spend with Service Disabled Veteran Enterprises (DVBE) rose 24 percent in 2015 ($154.6 million from $125.1 million in 2014—an increase of $29.5 million). This was part of the company’s record $2.5 billion spend with diverse suppliers in 2015.
Complete information on PG&E’s commitment to equal employment opportunity and diversity and inclusion can be found on PG&E’s careers web site.