MBN USA

September 09, 2024

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WEI's apprenticeship program helps close skills and diversity gaps in the industry

Q: Tell us a little about your business. When and why was it started?

A: WEI was founded in 1989 to address a gap in the regional IT [information technology] market, where businesses had to adapt to out-of-the-box solutions from single manufacturers. Recognizing the need for customized technology stacks using best-in-breed equipment, we provided integrated solutions backed by our expert engineers. This unique and costume approach eventually gained favor, helping businesses meet their challenges. We continue to prioritize this business-focused approach, proudly retaining many of our early customers to this day.

Q: How has being a certified Hispanic business enterprise (HBE) impacted your business?

A: Being a certified Hispanic business enterprise (HBE) has greatly benefited WEI by enhancing our commitment to diversity and inclusion. It has opened doors to supplier diversity programs and partnerships that prioritize minority-owned businesses.

Q: What is your company’s biggest challenge as an HBE, and how do you combat that?

A: Our biggest challenge as an HBE is balancing sustainable success while staying true to our principles and community roots. This means focusing on the groups that we owe our success to — our team, customers, partners and community. About 25% of our workforce is Hispanic, and we are working to continually offer opportunities to underrepresented groups. For example, in 2023, we launched a minority-based training and mentoring service called the WEI Technical Apprenticeship for Diverse Candidates. This service helps close skills and diversity gaps, providing a career pathway for diverse candidates. It is available to WEI and our customers, to bring new opportunities to the surrounding Hispanic community. This focus on diversity enriches our workforce and strengthens our ability to innovate and meet client needs effectively.

Q: What is your company’s biggest opportunity, and how are you capitalizing on that?

A: Our biggest opportunity is navigating rapid IT changes, especially with evolving consumption models. We recognize that cloud and managed services offer choices with less up-front capital, quicker time to market, and shorter learning curves. Knowing this, WEI has excelled in guiding customers to solutions that better enable speed and scalability. The rise of mobile data and solutions native to artificial intelligence (AI) presents further opportunities. Adapting to these changes and guiding our customers through them is WEI’s strong suit and serves as our daily motivation.

Q: How is your company taking advantage (or preparing to take advantage) of an ever-changing, AI-focused global marketplace?

A: Every day, our seasoned experts identify strategies and solutions that maximize the power of automation. Whether it be in our cybersecurity practice, network solutions or cloud management, WEI embraces AI to enhance our offerings and streamline operations. We integrate AI-driven technologies in our solutions to improve efficiency, security and user experience. Our investments in AI help us deliver smarter, more intuitive solutions, ensuring our clients can leverage the latest advancements to stay competitive.

Q: What impact has (or will have) recent court rulings and policies threatening diversity equity and inclusion’s (DEI’s) continued advancement – and, thus, supplier diversity – had on your business?

A: Recent court rulings and policies could pose challenges to DEI and supplier diversity efforts. Such changes might limit access to opportunities and resources that support minority-owned businesses. However, WEI remains steadfast in its commitment to diversity by proactively supporting inclusive practices and forming strategic partnerships. We continue to advocate for and implement DEI initiatives to mitigate potential negative impacts, ensuring that diversity remains a core value and driver of innovation within our business.

To learn more about WEI, visit wei.com.