Progressive Leasing, a $3B public company headquartered in Draper, Utah is committed to welcoming diverse talent from across the country; this may be you!
2020 has brought about some truly world changing events. Among other things, a pandemic, racial injustice, and a fluctuating economy which took the national unemployment rate from 3.5% in February, to 14.7% in April. The dramatic spike resulted in Americans reconsidering places where they live, looking at new industries and job opportunities in order to combat an increasing competitive labor market. Many states traditionally considered to lack diversity, like Utah, are gaining the attention of Black entrepreneurs and pioneering professionals. Utah’s Black population is less than 2% compared to 13.4% nationwide. Why are Black professionals choosing Utah, and why do they stay?
UTAH HAS A SUPPORTIVE BLACK COMMUNITY
The Utah Black Chamber of Commerce was created to help black Utahns find ways to succeed in Utah. James Jackson III, President and Founder, partners with Black Utahns to welcome those, new to Utah, and help them build pathways for success in a place that many may not see as overtly diverse. The organization is a key resource for Black Utahns with a mission to share knowledge and promote personal and professional growth. When asked for top reasons why Blacks are moving to Utah, Jackson stated, “Job opportunities and a family-friendly environment.” We surveyed Black Utah professionals to better understand the top reasons they stay.
UTAH HAS EXPERIENCED THE HIGHEST 2020 JOB GROWTH PERCENTAGE IN OUR NATION
Utah boasts an unemployment rate typically well below the national average. Respondents repeatedly attest to having broader opportunities and less competition here than in overpopulated areas. Utah also has a broad range of industrial diversity, so respondents also appreciate the more diverse career options.
UTAH IS ENTREPENEUR FRIENDLY
Forbes and Amazon ranked Utah as the single best state for entrepreneurs, and Inc.com recognized Utah as the “Best Place in America to Start a Business.” Black entrepreneurs are establishing the future of Black businesses, resources, and services provided to Black consumers. The UtahBlackpages.com business directory, advertises nearly 200 Black-owned and run businesses, organizations, and churches that support Utah’s diverse industry and communities. Utah’s state song affirms its founder’s declaration, “This is the place.” Utah is the place for those with a pioneering spirit.
UTAH IS RECOGNIZED FOR BEING ONE OF THE FRIENDLIEST AND SAFEST PLACES TO LIVE AND RAISE A FAMILY
According to Worldpopulationreview.com, Utahn’s enjoy where they work, play and live. Utah holds the highest community volunteer rates, the lowest divorce rates, and ranks high for workplace safety, emergency preparedness, and lowest percentage of drunk driving fatalities. Residents enjoy active lifestyles and outdoor recreation which contribute to their mental and physical health and wellbeing.
UTAH COLLEGES PROVIDE GREAT EDUCATION
Advancements by Brigham Young University and the University of Utah have contributed to producing Noble Peace Prize winners who make innovative discoveries, advances, and cutting-edge research in the medical world to creating foundational technologies that influence how we interact and relate with the world. Whether you are embarking on student life or pursuing a deeper educational experience, Utah colleges and universities offer paths to success and professional stability in a strong and diverse economy.
DYNAMIC AND DIVERSE GEOGRAPHICAL LANDSCAPES
The majestic mountains of Utah have beckoned many Black individuals and families to settle in Utah and call it home. Utahns experience its beauty during all four vastly contrasting seasons, providing beautiful scenery that is known around the world. Utah is home to an impressive five national parks and forty-three state parks. From the mountains, having “the greatest snow on Earth”, which hosted the 2002 Olympics, to peaceful lakes, rivers and red rock deserts. This natural oasis has been discovered by Black Utahns as places of sanctuary, spiritual rekindling and relaxation. And for those preferring a vitalizing splash of excitement, Las Vegas is just a few hours’ drive away.
Global diversity expert, world traveler, and author, Dr. William Guillory describes his choice to make Utah home, “… I had an opportunity to continually compare my EXPERIENCE of living in Utah with other cities…” “…What ultimately kept me here for 38 years are the people I formed significant relationships with of all backgrounds, races, professions, and my personal ties to the Black community.“ Guillory is President of Innovations International, a thriving Black-owned businesses making an impact not only for people in Utah, but for organizations around the world.
Corporations across the country are reaching out to diversity job boards and professional networks to strengthen interest from Black candidates. Dante Lee, founder and CEO of Blackjobs.com, reported an increase in both corporate advertising and job postings that have been designed to engage and attract a diverse talent pool. Lee says “now is a good time to consider relocation” when contemplating career choices.
Progressive Leasing, a $3B public company headquartered in Draper, Utah is committed to welcoming diverse talent from across the country. For the past three years, Progressive Leasing has been listed as one of Utah’s Top Companies to Work for in Utah Business Magazine. Michelle Parker, VP Talent & Culture says, “We are passionate about creating an inclusive workplace which promotes belonging, welcomes diversity of thought, and celebrates differences. We want employees to be their true, authentic selves which will continue to make this a great place to work. It’s not about checking a box. It’s a meaningful mission for all of us.”
Black professionals are staying in Utah because they appreciate the opportunities, the ability to make a difference and influence the future of Black Utah, and the impact they can have, not only on the Black communities but to Utah’s evolving culture and growth. Utah supports a diverse and vibrant economy and fiercely promotes family and community.
Are you looking for a company that is looking for you? Consider Utah. Consider Progressive Leasing. To apply for a position with Progressive Leasing, go to Working at Progressive Leasing (progleasing.com).
