Santee Cooper has consistently ranked at the top of large state agencies when it comes to achieving diverse workforce goals, as measured by the South Carolina Human Affairs Commission. This is more than a talking point for us. The benefits of diversity are far reaching throughout all levels of a company and although a diverse and inclusive workforce is imperative, we understand the importance of expanding that philosophy.
Santee Cooper developed a diverse and inclusive procurement strategy that expanded the pool of potential suppliers and improves the agility of our supply chain. The procurement strategy also provides societal benefits through new opportunities for disadvantaged communities.
In 2022, the utility’s corporate goal was to have a minimum 10% of total spend of controllable dollars with diverse suppliers, which includes women-, veteran- and minority-owned businesses. The goal was exceeded as Santee Cooper reached 12.8% of total spend of controllable dollars.
This year, Santee Cooper set a corporate goal of 13% of total spend of controllable dollars, with a stretch goal of 15%. As of the end of September, the utility was at 15.3% of total spend of controllable dollars.
There are several different areas in which diverse suppliers are working with Santee Cooper, including new transmission line construction, transformer supply, contract labor, general construction services, uniform supplies, fleet and safety equipment, and technology services.
The IDEA Inclusion, Diversity and Equity Awareness) Council was established to support Santee Cooper’s commitment to a workplace where team members appreciate and respect teammates’ commonalities as well as their differences, better facilitating the accomplishment of Santee Cooper’s mission. This Council advises on and supports corporate strategies that increase diversity, equity and inclusion awareness, reinforce and enhance a culture of equity and inclusion, and improve Santee Cooper’s diversity footprint.