Breaking Barriers in Tech: Cecilian Partners’ Commitment to Hiring from Diverse Backgrounds

In an industry where innovation is key, Cecilian Partners is making waves not just through cutting-edge technology but also by building a diverse team of technical talent. The PropTech company is transforming the home buying process by centralizing data, digital marketing, and operations for community developers and homebuilders. However, it’s their unique approach to hiring that truly sets them apart, particularly their partnership with Code Platoon.

A Commitment to Diverse Talent

Cecilian Partners’ hiring philosophy centers around the belief that a team with diverse backgrounds and experiences fuels creativity and innovation. Co-founder and CEO John Cecilian Jr. emphasizes hiring individuals over simply filling positions. “We always hire the person, not just the job position,” John said. This mindset has brought together experts from various industries, creating a rich tapestry of experiences that drive the company’s success​​.

John’s extensive background in retail management with iconic brands like Abercrombie & Fitch and Under Armour underscores his knack for recognizing and nurturing talent. His approach ensures that every team member feels valued and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives. 

“By bringing in individuals from varied industries and backgrounds, we benefit from a rich landscape of experiences and viewpoints,” says Khari Walker, Cecilian’s Executive Advisor. “Our diverse expertise enriches our discussions, enhances our decision-making processes, and ultimately drives us to deliver exceptional results,” Khari added.

The Impact of Code Platoon Graduates

An impactful component of Cecilian Partners’ hiring strategy is their collaboration with Code Platoon. This nonprofit organization provides immersive training programs to Veterans and military spouses, transforming them into skilled, job-ready, full-stack software engineers in as little as 15 weeks. Over the past 18 months, Cecilian Partners has hired two graduates from Code Platoon into full-time roles and recently added two apprentices from the program.

James Kelsey, a Navy Veteran, has quickly made a name for himself at Cecilian Partners. Abid Shaik, Senior Software Architect, praises James for his disciplined approach and quick learning. “James is a great talent. He is a quick learner and has had a tremendous impact on our projects,” Abid shares. James’ contributions have been so significant that he earned the Engineering All-Star Award at their annual all-hands meeting​​.

Kana Pankey, an Air Force Veteran and military spouse, is the newest Code Platoon grad to join the company. Her military background has equipped her with a level of discipline and problem-solving skills that are invaluable in the fast-paced tech environment at Cecilian Partners. She’s also interested in diving into organizational behavior and leadership development.

“We value the diverse perspectives and experiences that individuals from nontraditional backgrounds bring,” Khari said. “Veterans’ discipline, dedication, and adaptability enrich our corporate culture, fostering a dynamic and inclusive workplace. By integrating graduates from programs like Code Platoon, we not only enhance our technical capabilities but also strengthen our team’s ability to innovate and collaborate.”

Fostering a Culture of Inclusivity

Building a workforce of diverse backgrounds and talents is important, but ensuring that everyone feels included and appreciated is also crucial to the company’s culture. Jennifer Cecilian, CFO and a key figure in team building at Cecilian Partners underscores the company’s unwavering dedication to inclusivity. With a leadership team that boasts more female leaders than male, Cecilian Partners actively promotes diversity at all levels. Jennifer’s personal connection to the military community, being an “army brat,” has reinforced the company’s commitment to hiring Veterans and supporting Code Platoon​​.

Jennifer explains, “It’s not just about what someone can do, but about who they are and what they bring to the table. Our team is stronger because of the varied experiences and perspectives each person contributes.”

Conclusion

Cecilian Partners is setting a new standard in the PropTech industry, not just through its innovative technology but also by building a team with diverse backgrounds. Its partnership with Code Platoon exemplifies its commitment to hiring skilled, passionate individuals who bring unique perspectives to the table. By valuing workforce diversity, Cecilian Partners is paving the way for a more innovative and dynamic future in tech.

“We are committed to supporting these non-traditional pathways and recognizing the potential of individuals from varied backgrounds,” Khari concluded. “By doing so, we not only fulfill our commitment to diversity and inclusion but also ensure that we are tapping into a rich talent pool that can drive our organization forward.”

For more information on Cecilian Partners and their groundbreaking work, visit Cecilian Partners.

Cecillian Partners is a corporate sponsor of Celebrate Code Platoon 2024. The annual celebration of the Code Platoon mission will be held on September 26, 2024, from 6–9 p.m. at The River Room at Burning Bush Brewery in Chicago. For tickets or more information, visit https://www.codeplatoon.org/celebrate/