GE Careers Blog.

General Electric Co., one of the original 12 companies listed on the Dow Jones Industrial Average when the index was formed in 1896 and often cited as the country’s most admired company, implemented an aggressive diversity strategy under former CEO Jack Welch that included employee networks, regular planning forums, formal mentoring and recruiting at high schools and colleges popular with minorities. In 2000, in the waning days of Welch’s 20-year tenure as CEO, women, minorities and non-U.S. citizens made up 22 percent of GE’s officers and 29 percent of its senior executives. In September 2002, the Fairfield, Conn., technology and services conglomerate appointed its first chief diversity officer, Deborah Elam. By 2005, those numbers had increased to 34 percent and 40 percent, respectively. As we celebrate Black History Month in 2010, both figures surpass 46 percent.

Executives of GE’s African American Forum (AAF) visited Africa to deepen relationships and understanding of the continent during 10-15 January. In South Africa, members of the delegation spoke to the press as well as hosted a series of employee events.

Executives of GE’s African American Forum (AAF) visited Africa to deepen relationships and understanding of the continent during 10-15 January. The team spent two days in Rwanda. They visited the Nyamata Health Center where GE has successfully implemented the Developing Health Globally program.

Executives of GE’s African American Forum (AAF) visited Africa to deepen relationships and understanding of the continent during 10-15 January. Nigeria’s ministers of Energy and Finance welcomed the team in Nigeria. Discussions centered on GE’s commitment to the country and progress made since the signing of the “Company to Country” agreement in June last year.

Executives of GE’s African American Forum (AAF) visited Africa to deepen relationships and understanding of the continent during 10-15 January. The delegation’s first stop was the Apam Catholic Hospital, a 105-bed facility in Ghana where GE has partnered to donate products, technology and knowledge to improve access to healthcare under the Developing Health Globally program.