Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility
Our Commitment
At the EERC, our people are our most valuable asset, and we are committed to building a culture that celebrates our diversity and constantly works toward equity and inclusive engagement for all our colleagues. We believe that embracing diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) makes us stronger as we solve the world’s energy and environmental challenges.
DEI in Action at the EERC
Annual training is provided for all EERC employees in various elements of DEIA through in-person sessions and through resources provided by UND. The topics related to DEIA and safety may include the following:
- Implicit/unconscious bias
- Microaggressions
- Sexual harassment
- Sensitivity awareness
- Listening skills and empathy for leaders
- Communicating with respect
The EERC’s commitment to healthy DEIA guidelines involves simple, succinct adherence to our five Core Values:
Be Safe
At the EERC, safety is a multifaceted approach to physical and psychological well-being. We want our staff to feel safe bringing their entire selves to work with them rather than closeting certain parts of who they are.
Be Ethical
Ethical behavior includes organizational and individual action, both of which incorporate the DEIA values, particularly equity. Fair, just, and impartial treatment of all employees, at the systemic and personal levels, is part of an ethical workplace.
Be Engaged
A workplace culture that embraces diversity attracts dedicated and creative individuals who give their best each day. At the EERC, we strive to create such an environment, as included and valued employees are more engaged and effective.
Be Effective
Research shows that diverse teams under inclusive leadership are more creative and effective; furthermore, staff working on diverse, inclusive teams with effective supervisors will experience more, and better, technical and project successes. Embracing DEIA values helps make the EERC a more effective and successful business.
Be Professional
Professional conduct means treating colleagues with respect and appreciation. DEIA encourages staff to go beyond the Golden Rule, seeking self-awareness of their cultural assumptions and biases. Embracing diversity fosters compassion, better listening, and a more inclusive workplace.
In Unity with the University of North Dakota
The EERC stands proudly in unity with the overarching initiatives and policies of UND's equity strategy, which asserts all students, faculty, and staff have intrinsic value as human beings and should be treated with respect. UND is committed to promoting learning, discovery, and engagement toward an inclusive and equitable working and learning environment that respects, acknowledges, and celebrates individual differences.