BEING MYSELF.
“DISCLOSING MY SEXUAL ORIENTATION HAS HELPED BREAK DOWN THE STEREOTYPES OF WHO A LGBTQ+ PERSON IS AT WORK”
At Edison, everyone has an important role in creating a better tomorrow. For Michael, that role is providing opportunities to diverse businesses on Edison’s Supplier Diversity team, which he’s been a part of for the past two years. His work helps Edison build a strong base of diverse suppliers, while managing strategies, programs and goals that facilitate the ongoing inclusion and growth of small and diverse business enterprises. His supplier network is made up of various small and diversely owned businesses, including LGBTQ+ owned businesses. This has given him the opportunity to foster partnerships that directly and positively impact our communities, as well as the local, regional and national economy.
Michael credits SCE’s diversity and inclusion programs and Employee Resource Groups like Lighthouse (LGBTQ+) and ASCEND (Asian & Pacific Islander) for helping him feel safe sharing that he is gay. “Disclosing my sexual orientation has helped break down the stereotypes of who an LGBTQ+ person is and most importantly, has allowed me to be myself at work.” Michael said.
At Edison, creating a workplace where we all feel safe, heard and included is something we take very seriously. On a personal level, Michael is a source of motivation and encouragement for colleagues who wish to come out to their friends and families. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with his husband. Together, they are working on adopting their first child.
We asked Michael a few questions about his career and work at Edison:
How would you describe the culture at Edison?
I would describe the culture as an inclusive workplace. Edison encourages an environment where respect, equity, and positive recognition are cultivated across its diverse workforce. I also feel it’s an environment that encourages people to be themselves at work regardless of social or institutional views.
How would you describe Edison’s support of LGBTQ+ employees?
I believe Edison’s support of LGBTQ+ employees and community far surpasses the standard in the corporate world and continues to be progressive. I’ve leveraged the support and comradery of the Lighthouse ERG. It has allowed me to develop friendships and business relationships with other employees who also identify as LGBTQ+, as well as allies of the community.
In the past, I’ve participated in various external engagements on behalf of Edison and Lighthouse. Last year, Edison proudly marched at the Pride Parade in Palm Springs in support of our LGBTQ+ community. My husband, family members, SCE team members, and I joined to march and celebrate LGBTQ+ pride.
What is your number one piece of advice for candidates who are looking for jobs right now?
My number one piece of advice to anyone looking for a job is to create your own personal brand! The process of personal branding involves finding what makes you stand out, building your reputation, and allowing yourself to be known for them. This will empower your network to reach out to you when an opportunity presents itself. This is how I became an employee at Edison. I personally branded myself and the role found me through my network of peers.
