Intel pledges $300 million to make its workforce more diverse

Intel chief executive Brian Krzanich has pledged to spend $300 million to boost workforce diversity.

Speaking at the 2015 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, Krzanich said during his keynote address that he would personally work to make the company more diverse.

“The rise of new personal computing experiences, intelligent and connected devices, and the wearable revolution are redefining the relationship between consumers and technology,” said Krzanich.

“Our goal with Intel technology is to help solve real problems and enable experiences that are truly desired by people and businesses.”

“In order to do this, we must also do more to lead the growth of diversity and inclusion within the technology industry. Women and underrepresented minorities will continue to play a greater role as consumers, influencers, creators and leaders.”

The multimillion-dollar investment will be used to recruit more women and underserved minorities for technology positions, actively support and retain new staff and fund programs to encourage more diversity within the tech and gaming industries at large.

The news comes as the technology sector has come under increasing pressure to address its lack of diversity. Recent figures from major tech companies on diversity in their workforces reveal they are dominated by males, whites and Asian employees.

Intel’s most recent filing, for 2013, reveals 76 per cent of employees were men and 24 per cent women; 57 per cent are white, 29 per cent Asian, 8 per cent Hispanic and 4 per cent black. The percentages of women and underrepresented minorities dwindle even further for leadership and management posts.

By 2020, Intel hopes women and underrepresented minorities will be “fully represented” in its workforce.

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