A Letter From The Editor Welcome to the first special issue of CRN devoted exclusively to the discussion of diversity, equity and inclusion in the channel. During the past two years, we’ve used this spot in our editorial calendar to showcase up-and-coming women in the channel. This year we’re broadening our scope to include a look at how the channel is celebrating differences, ensuring fair opportunities for all and creating a sense of belonging in the workplace. DEI is a topic that’s come to the forefront for many businesses, especially in the technology sector. Study after study proves that having a diverse workforce across multiple spectrums—such as race, gender identity, age, religion, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status and physical ability, to name a few—leads to increased employee engagement, more innovation and better financial results. Those are all good reasons why so many in the channel are taking their DEI efforts seriously. In our cover story on p. 6, Associate Editor C.J. Fairfield, Senior Editor Gina Narcisi and Assistant News Editor Mark Haranas take a look at how executives at solution providers, technology vendors and distributors are issuing a call to action and taking steps to help bring more diversity, equity and inclusion to the channel. From training and development programs for executive leaders to funding for Black-owned solution providers, channel executives across the industry are working to make a difference. Our third-annual Rising Female Stars project, starting on p. 10, continues to spotlight some of the channel’s women who are having a big impact on their solution provider partners today and are poised to be tomorrow’s leaders. The honorees in large part were selected based on recommendations from channel chiefs and other channel management executives across the industry, and it’s easy to see why this accomplished group is earning accolades. With so much discussion going on right now about DEI, it can be hard to figure out where to concentrate your energies. On p. 20 we call out the 10 trends channel executives should focus on. Then Cass McMann, leader of The Channel Company’s Inclusive Leadership Network, provides a helpful look at the importance of language in tackling bias on p. 24, while on p. 26 we examine ways channel leaders can serve as allies. I hope you find something inspirational in this issue to help you build a more inclusive environment at your workplace.
Best regards,
Jennifer Follett Executive Editor jfollett@thechannelcompany.com
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SPECIAL ISSUE 2022
