Black History Month Profile: DeVonté Harpool

By DeVonté Harpool
Senior Human Resources Generalist

Black History Month means an additional opportunity for us to give credit and reminds us all that our country would not be as successful as it is today if it were not for the innovation, hard work, intellect, and courage of the African Americans who came before us.

A notable figure who inspires me is Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. I find a sense of alignment with his heart for service, community, and commitment to making a meaningful impact, whether it's in the realm of business or in our communities. His passion and relentless pursuit of justice have undoubtedly shaped our present-day society, and I am grateful for the legacy he has left behind. I strongly resonate with the sentiment that his unwavering dedication has steered me toward a career in Human Resources, as we are the heart of organizations, championing the rights and well-being of our employees. Dr. King's indomitable spirit continues to inspire me to advocate for what is just and equitable within the workplace and society at large.

One challenge I faced in my career was the fear of speaking up while being one of the few people of color seated at the decision-making table.  I felt as if I didn't have a voice and when I did it was shut down. I was also thrown into starting programs in a previous career "since I was the only black person in HR" and was "supposed to have been a subject matter expert." This experience deeply shaped my perspective. It demonstrated the challenges and inequalities that exist within corporate America. This experience highlighted the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace and the necessity of amplifying marginalized voices. It also emphasized the need for cultural sensitivity and the creation of inclusive programs and initiatives, which fueled my passion for advocating for change within organizations where I work.

I love the culture we have at Bell Techlogix. We are continuously improving and give opportunities for employees to feel heard and seen in the workplace no matter their role within the organization. It feels great to be with an organization that truly values its employees and is a huge advocate for diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging for all.

Learn more here about job opportunities and work culture at Bell Techlogix.