Last week, three leaders of the PRIDE @ Xperi employee resource group (ERG) gathered in New York City to attend the Out in Tech Leadership Institute, a conference for queer-identifying tech professionals and allies.
Molly Jernigan (senior engineer, customer solutions), Nemesis Lugo (executive administrator), and Alec Custer (staff engineer, software development & PRIDE @ Xperi ERG chair) joined hundreds of techies employed in a variety of industries but united by a common goal — creating opportunities and advancing equality for the LGBTQ+ tech community.
Among the speakers and panelists at the institute were Raquel Willis (writer, transgender activist), Schuyler Bailar (educator, first openly trans NCAA Division 1 men’s swimmer), Lady J (Emmy-nominated writer, director, & producer), and Raffi Freedman-Gurspan (principal deputy director of public engagement, U.S. Department of Transportation). Jess Wass, CEO & founder of Reworkit, offered guidance on “managing up” — a career development strategy focused on creating value for both you and your stakeholders. Later in the afternoon, attendees split into small cohorts to build actionable strategies for addressing challenges in their workplaces.
“It was my privilege as an LGBTQ+ ally to attend this event. During our breakout sessions, it was particularly helpful to listen to the challenges leaders face and exchange ideas on how to confront and overcome them,” said Nemesis. “I’m glad the community is being uplifted by the institute’s commitment.”
Saturday offered a half-day of developmental workshops. “During an ERG discussion, we spoke with dozens of other folks to learn how they are supporting their employees via their Pride ERGs,” Molly shared. “It was enlightening to hear proven examples on how to improve engagement and belonging. I am looking forward to implementing what I learned to Xperi’s own ERG.”
Though the Leadership Institute lasted for only a few days, its impact will continue to reverberate. PRIDE @ Xperi’s leadership is excited to apply their learnings to the group’s ongoing mission of building a workplace culture that celebrates LGBTQ+ identities and fosters inclusivity.
