Maxar's Together Against Cancer (TAC) Employee Resource Group (ERG) is a strong community that provides support and resources to employees affected by cancer. It’s also Maxar’s newest ERG at less than a year old. This dedicated group offers a lifeline to those navigating the challenges of a cancer diagnosis, fostering a sense of belonging and understanding within the Maxar community of employees.
In this spotlight, you’ll hear from ERG leaders Norman Laudermilch and Marci Grant as they discuss the inspiration behind Maxar’s TAC ERG, its mission, and the significant impact it has on Maxar's culture and employees.
Meet the Maxar TAC ERG
Q: What inspired the creation of the TAC ERG at Maxar?
- Norm: Cancer touches the lives of over half our population in one way or another. That means that over half of Maxar’s employees are affected by cancer, and we started this ERG to ensure that no member of the Maxar community of employees goes through it alone. Marci and I bring two important perspectives – myself as a stage four metastatic cancer survivor and Marci as a primary cancer caregiver for the same. Both are incredibly important roles requiring different types of support from an employer, and we wanted to make sure that anyone at Maxar going through what we went through had the help and support they needed.
Q: Can you describe the mission and goals of Maxar’s TAC ERG?
- Norm: Our mission is simple: Make the cancer journey easier for Maxar employees. Our goals are to make sure Maxar employees have the resources they need, support they depend on, and a hand to hold as they go through their journey.
Being a Part of the Maxar TAC ERG
Q: What does being a member of the Maxar TAC ERG mean to you personally and professionally?
- Marci: My family and I (as seen in picture) have faced significant challenges since my husband’s diagnosis with stage 4 metastatic cancer. Being a part of Maxar's TAC ERG has been incredibly meaningful as it has allowed me to connect with others who've faced similar challenges, share experiences, and find support. This shared journey has not only helped me personally but has also enriched my professional life, fostering deeper bonds with colleagues.
Q: How has being involved in Maxar’s TAC ERG impacted your experience at Maxar?
- Marci: I love working at Maxar! Joining and co-leading the TAC ERG has been a truly rewarding experience at Maxar. By collaborating with colleagues who understand the challenges faced by cancer patients and their families, I've developed deeper connections within the company. This shared commitment to creating a supportive environment has made my work at Maxar even more fulfilling.
The Impact of the TAC ERG on Maxar
Q: How does the TAC ERG contribute to Maxar's overall culture of inclusion and diversity?
- Norm: A cancer diagnosis can act as an isolator. Immediately you feel different, unsure who to talk to or what to say, and worried that seeking help may affect the way you’re viewed by your peers. Inclusion and diversity is in our DNA at Maxar, and the Together Against Cancer ERG allows employees to continue a sense of belonging even when going through cancer.
Q: Can you share an example of a successful initiative or project Maxar’s TAC ERG has undertaken?
- Norm: We’re just getting started and we’re already seeing great success! We have several efforts underway to provide employees with cancer diagnosis the essential things they need: A warm blanket, rides to and from appointments, and things to ease the discomfort of treatments like chemotherapy and radiation. In addition, we’ve supported two successful events – Drink for Pink in Denver and our ERG member Sam Mader participated in the runDisney race for the American Cancer Society.
Maxar’s TAC ERG and Culture
Q: How does the TAC ERG help to foster a sense of belonging among Maxar employees?
- Marci: The TAC ERG fosters a sense of belonging among Maxar employees by providing a dedicated space for those who have been impacted by cancer, either personally or through family members. The ERG offers a platform for open conversations about this sensitive topic, enabling employees to connect with others who share similar experiences. By creating a supportive environment for understanding and empathy, the TAC ERG helps members feel valued and connected within the Maxar community.
Communicating Maxar’s TAC ERG's Value
Q: What would you like non-employees to know about Maxar's TAC ERG and its mission?
- Norm: Maxar isn’t just another company to work for, it’s a community of support, culture, inclusion and diversity that will be with you every step of the way as you go through your cancer journey.
Q: What is the most important message you want to share about the value of ERGs in general?
- Norm: ERG’s provide great value to businesses in many ways, including building a sense of community, promoting DEI, improving communication, increasing employee retention, improving wellness, and contributing to a more inclusive society.