T-Mobile is one of the largest wireless network operators in the U.S., known for its innovation in 5G telecommunications and commitment to connecting people. Founded in 1994, the company has built its reputation on inclusivity and a customer-first approach, striving to make technology accessible to all. Now, T-Mobile is proud to partner with Flatiron School’s Lovelace and Ford fellowship programs — beginning in 2024 with a planned continuation through 2025 — in their efforts to amplify diverse voices and create opportunities for underrepresented communities in tech.
Innovation Through Diversity
T-Mobile has long acknowledged the importance of inclusion and belonging as key drivers of innovation, and regards diversity as a critical ingredient to driving creativity. “Diversity brings a wealth of perspectives, experiences, and ideas that can lead to more innovation,” Lacey Craig, Senior Program Manager, HR Military & Diversity Recruiting at T-Mobile says. “When people from different backgrounds come together, they challenge each other’s assumptions and think outside the box, which often results in better decision-making and problem-solving.”
This new collaboration with Flatiron School is a testament to T-Mobile’s ongoing commitment to fostering a culture where all individuals feel supported and respected in the tech industry. Ultimately, the company hopes to build a workforce that represents the world the company serves and drive inclusivity even outside of the office. “Diversity fosters inclusivity and equity, ensuring that everyone has a voice and feels valued,” Craig says. “This can create a more positive and productive environment, whether in the workplace, in communities, or in broader society.”
Throughout T-Mobile’s collaboration with Flatiron School, the company plans to offer tangible career opportunities, committing to networking with and/or interviewing 40 Flatiron graduates over the 2024-2025 planned partnership term.
Measuring T-Mobile’s Commitment to Inclusion
T-Mobile’s dedication to creating an inclusive culture is embedded in every aspect of its operations. The company actively works to create a space where people from all walks of life and perspectives can thrive through a range of initiatives designed to promote belonging:
- Inclusive Recruitment: T-Mobile strives to remove biases from its hiring process and attract diverse talent.
- Ongoing Education: The company provides continuous DEI training to its employees to create awareness and foster a culture of inclusion.
- Employee Support Networks: T-Mobile offers Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), mentorship programs, and other resources to help employees from all backgrounds thrive.
These initiatives are more than just marketing fluff though — they’re backed by real results. Through these endeavors, T-Mobile has made significant strides in increasing representation across its workforce, particularly in leadership roles. In fact, according to the company’s 2023 CSR report, diversity within its ranks has truly flourished:
- 42% of U.S. Employees and 35% of U.S. Executives identify as female.
- 63% of U.S. Employees identify as members of traditionally underrepresented racial or ethnic groups.
On Hiring Skills-Based Talent
T-Mobile is committed to interviewing at least 40 Ford and Lovelace Fellows from Flatiron School as part of its strategy to bring more diverse talent into the company. Their goal is to support a new generation of tech professionals who bring unique perspectives and solutions to the table — talent that may not have taken the traditional 4-year university degree approach, but are just as capable, ambitious, and hard-working.
“Hiring based on skills rather than degrees […] opens up opportunities to a wider range of candidates who may have the right skills but not the traditional educational background,” Craig says. “It emphasizes what candidates can do rather than where they studied, leading to a more meritocratic hiring process.”
Build Your Future with T-Mobile
To learn more about career opportunities at T-Mobile, visit their website.
For information on the Lovelace and Ford fellowships at Flatiron School and how they can help you launch your tech career, check out the Diversity & Inclusion page.