Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace: My Experience at Clearsight

7-minute read

In this article:

• Learn about Nika Gerdov, Project Management Program Lead at Constellation Clearsight, and her experiences creating diverse workplace environments.
• Discover the best practices including commitment from leadership and resource groups.
• Understand how embracing diversity leads to prosperous environments and ultimately improved infrastructure maintenance.

As a Project Management Program Lead at Constellation Clearsight, I have had the privilege of working with an incredible team of professionals who hail from diverse backgrounds and experiences. Our company’s commitment to fostering an inclusive culture has not only enriched our work environment but has also contributed to our success as an organization.

Celebrate Diversity

In an industry where women have historically been underrepresented, I feel extremely fortunate to have found my voice, particularly within Clearsight. My professional opinions and expertise are consistently heard and valued by my colleagues and bolstered by leadership. This sense of belonging and support has been crucial in enabling me to thrive and make a meaningful impact in my field.

At Clearsight, the leadership team goes above and beyond in fostering an atmosphere of growth and development for all employees. They have been instrumental in guiding me through the unique challenges of this industry, generously sharing their wisdom and advice on how to succeed. This commitment to nurturing talent not only speaks to the inclusive culture within the company but also to the bright future we are all working towards.

Diversity is a key ingredient in Clearsight’s ability to deliver innovative and effective solutions for our customers.

Related: 6 Key Insights to Help Utilities Evaluate Companies Using Drones to Inspect Electrical Assets

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“By bringing together people from different backgrounds and experiences, we harness the power of diverse perspectives and ideas, which enables us to develop innovative, cutting-edge solutions.”

Nika Gerdov, Project Management Program Lead, Constellation Clearsight

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Our diverse team of experts, equipped with unique insights and a broad range of skills, empowers us to approach challenges from various angles, ultimately delivering better, more comprehensive solutions for our clients.

Embracing Diversity for Innovative Solutions and Customer Success at Clearsight

As a leader in our industry, we recognize that our commitment to diversity not only strengthens our internal culture but also plays a pivotal role in providing exceptional service to our customers, helping them to secure a more sustainable and efficient energy future. 

Drawing from my own experiences and my role as a mentor and advocate for diversity and inclusion, I would like to share some best practices I have gained through my tenure at Exelon Corporation, the largest utility company in the nation, and as a Project Management Program Lead at Constellation Clearsight. These experiences have provided me with a wealth of best practices for fostering a truly inclusive workplace culture.

Leadership Commitment

As I thought about the topic of diversity, I sat near my window at my home in Denver, looking out at Pike’s Peak. As a Chicagoan for many years, I still can’t get over how impressive the Rocky Mountains are. As the snow melts and delivers much needed water to rivers and streams across the western U.S., Pike’s Peak is a significant symbol of a lived reality: it starts at the top.

The commitment to diversity and inclusion must start at the top. Leaders set the tone for the organization, and their actions speak louder than words. At Exelon, I was consistently impressed by then-CEO Chris Crane’s ability to model the way. I continue to follow Exelon CEO Calvin Butler and highly value both his commitment as well as how he “walks the talk.” 

While it’s not always easy, encourage your leadership team to participate in diversity and inclusion training, to communicate the company’s values, and ask them about their experiences. At Clearsight, our leadership team actively participates in our diversity and inclusion initiatives and has made it a company-wide priority.

Employee Resource Groups (ERGs)

Take part in Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), which are voluntary, employee-led groups within a company or organization that brings together individuals who share common characteristics or experiences related to diversity. These groups aim to foster a sense of belonging, create opportunities for networking and professional development, and advocate for the needs and interests of their members.

If your company doesn’t have an ERG, consider starting one to provide your colleagues with a place to discuss their experiences and share ideas for promoting diversity and inclusion. In my experience, Human Resources is a friend and advocate to bring in early if you are thinking about starting an ERG.

ERGs also serve as a platform for employees to connect with others who share their background or experiences. At Clearsight, we are fortunate to take part in Constellation’s multiple ERGs that support a wide range of employees, including women, people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, and veterans and active military members.

Mentorship Programs

Mentorship programs pair experienced employees with underrepresented mentees, aiming to provide guidance, skill development, and networking opportunities to support their professional growth and advancement within the organization. 

These programs foster inclusive environments, break down barriers, and promote cultural competence and can be an effective way to support the professional development of employees from underrepresented backgrounds. By pairing individuals with experienced mentors who can offer guidance and support, companies can help to create an environment where all employees can thrive. 

At Clearsight, our leadership encourages both formal and informal mentorships as part of our professional development plans. This has been instrumental in fostering a sense of belonging and promoting career growth for me.

In my professional journey, I’ve been fortunate enough to have not just one, but two amazing mentors – one at Clearsight and another in Constellation. These mentors have been instrumental in helping me craft both short-term and long-term plans, offering invaluable guidance every step of the way. Having a mentor outside of my organization but still at the larger company brings a different, informed perspective to various situations. 

This internal-external viewpoint allows me to navigate my career with a broader and more balanced understanding.

But mentorship isn’t just a one-way street. In my time at Exelon, I had the pleasure of mentoring several interns, many of whom I still keep in touch with today. 

This experience not only allowed me to give back but also helped me develop essential skills for managing my current direct reports. Mentorship has been a rewarding and enriching part of my professional life, and I’m grateful for the connections and growth it has brought me.

Bottom Line

Creating a diverse and inclusive workplace requires a sustained and intentional effort. By implementing best practices such as leadership commitment, employee resource groups, mentorship programs, and celebrating diversity, companies can work towards building a more inclusive culture that supports and empowers all employees. At Constellation Clearsight, our commitment to diversity and inclusion has not only enriched our work environment but has also driven innovation and success within our organization.

Explore our mission, vision, and values to learn more about Constellation Clearsight.