PS&S’ DIVERSITY, EQUITY, INCLUSION, & COMMUNITY MISSION STATEMENT

At PS&S our mission is to support our employees by creating a professional work environment that provides the resources they require to develop their skills and successfully advance their careers. This mission is central to our work in diversity, equity, inclusion, and our community. We strive to create workplaces that reflect the communities we serve and where everyone feels respected and empowered to bring their full, authentic selves to work. Together we are committed to building and supporting a culture where difference and inclusion are welcomed, embraced, and valued.

We are constantly evaluating ourselves on our managerial expertise, technical excellence, and our business development acumen. These “Pillars of Excellence” are the building blocks we use to define and continue to grow our DEI&C mission. To effectively combine all these elements of our pillars of excellence, it is essential to have a diverse team that brings different perspectives, experiences, and skill sets to the table. Encouraging open communication, promoting a culture of inclusivity, and investing in ongoing training and development can help ensure that everyone is working together towards the same objectives. By incorporating DEI&C into our business practices, we can better reflect the communities we serve, build stronger relationships with clients and partnering firms, and drive long-term success.

COMMUNICATION

In our commitment to clear communication that furthers Equity, Inclusion, and Diversity within our firm, we recognize that fostering an environment of open dialogue is crucial. We strive to cultivate a culture where every individual feels empowered to express their unique perspectives and experiences, knowing that their voices will be valued and respected. By actively encouraging and promoting transparent communication channels, we aim to undo barriers and ensure that all team members have equal opportunities to contribute, be heard, and actively participate in shaping our collective success. Through embracing diverse viewpoints, engaging in meaningful discussions, and continuously learning from one another, we foster an inclusive atmosphere that celebrates our differences and drives us towards achieving our shared goals.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

In addition to fostering a Welcoming, Respectful, and Engaging Work Environment that has career and growth opportunities for all employees, we believe in creating a culture that prioritizes continuous learning and development. We understand that professional growth is a vital aspect of individual fulfillment and organizational success. Therefore, we are committed to providing comprehensive resources, mentorship, and skill-building initiatives that empower our employees to expand their knowledge, enhance their abilities, and achieve their career aspirations. By promoting a supportive environment where learning is valued and encouraged, we ensure that every team member has access to the tools and guidance necessary to thrive both personally and professionally. We are dedicated to nurturing a workplace that embraces growth opportunities, enabling each employee to reach their full potential and contribute meaningfully to the overall success of our organization.

HIRING & CAREER GROWTH

As we continue to identify, hire, develop, promote, and engage employees with diverse backgrounds, skills, knowledge, and perspectives, we understand the profound impact of building a truly inclusive workforce. We recognize that diversity extends beyond visible differences and encompasses a wide range of experiences, ideas, and beliefs. It is through actively seeking out and embracing this diversity that we foster an environment of innovation, creativity, and excellence. We are committed to implementing inclusive hiring practices that promote equal opportunities for all candidates and mitigate any biases that may hinder the recruitment process. Additionally, we invest in comprehensive development programs that provide ongoing support and training to ensure that every employee has access to the resources they need to excel in their roles and advance their careers. By valuing and leveraging the unique perspectives that each individual brings, we cultivate a vibrant and dynamic workforce that drives our organization forward, fosters collaboration, and fosters a sense of belonging for all.

IDENTIFYING & MAINTAINING RELATIONSHIPS WITH MBE/WBE/DVOB FIRMS

PS&S values the important role minority, women-owned, and disabled veteran-owned businesses play in our industry and the communities in which we work. We recognize their contributions and the positive impact they have on promoting diversity and economic growth. Therefore, we are committed to actively seeking opportunities to collaborate, support, and grow our relationships with minority, women-owned, and disabled veteran-owned business firms, fostering a network of partnerships that drives inclusivity, fosters economic empowerment, and enhances the overall success of our industry.

KEY STRATEGIES

• Expanded recruitment at diverse colleges and universities.

• Expanded and modernized bias awareness as well as discrimination and harassment prevention training for new hires, employees, and managers.

• Created career roadmaps and pathways for transparency regarding career progression.

• Parental leave benefits and regularly review benefits for inclusivity.