Recapping the Broncos' inaugural Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Career Huddle

[Miles]

With more than 400 students and young professionals representing more than 100 different colleges and universities, 38 states and eight countries joining via video conference, the Denver Broncos hosted the team's inaugural Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Career Huddle on Thursday.


Over the three hours that followed, a range of Broncos staff members — including Hall of Fame safety Steve Atwater, Vice President of Strategic Initiatives Brittany Bowlen, Vice President of Football Administration Rich Hurtado, Vice President of Ticketing Sales and Service Marc Jackson and many of their colleagues — shared their invaluable perspectives on working in sports and the challenges they face, as well as advice for breaking into their industries.


"Under the leadership of Denver Broncos President and CEO Joe Ellis, diversity, equity and inclusion is a key priority for our organization," Executive Director of Community Development Allie Engelken said as the program began. "The concept for this professional development opportunity was born out of internal discussions with our players, coaches and staff last summer, and we're excited to introduce you to the team behind the team. You will hear from a diverse representation of some of the best and brightest Broncos employees spanning roles both on the football and business sides of our organization. Today's virtual event is aimed to bring together collegiate students and young professionals to learn more about working in sports, specifically for a professional team's front office."


As the keynote speaker, Atwater took it from there, beginning by touching on the concept of the seminar and why he felt it was so important.


"It's about ensuring fairness, building equal access for all people to opportunities in all areas of an organization, from the company's hiring processes, to compensation, to its fairness in promotions and professional growth," Atwater said. "In everyday terms for young people, it might kind of like saying, Hey, there's going to be a party and everyone, regardless of our differences, is invited. That is, actually, diversity. And everyone who is invited to the party — again, regardless of our differences — has equal access to the music in advance and gets to contribute to the playlist. That would be the equity part of it. And then when you get to the party, everyone has the opportunity to dance with the music that we all selected together … and also feel truly welcomed, respected, supported and valued. That's the inclusion part. As you know, there's currently a big push for DEI in the workplace, and this is an ever-evolving process that you guys, I'm sure, will benefit from."