In this blog series "Discussing Diversity," Hajoca Chair of the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Council Noe Bernal answers questions about diversity, equity and inclusion and how Hajoca contributes to a welcoming workplace environment for all.
 

What is the overall mission of Hajoca?

Hajoca is a company based on the principles of service, integrity and reliability, and on relationships of trust and support with teammates, customers and suppliers.

Civilization has made significant progress since 1858 when Hajoca was founded. Central heat and air conditioning, indoor plumbing, luxurious and safe kitchens and good sanitation: Hajoca helped build these amazing improvements, and they have fueled Hajoca’s success.

Today, Hajoca sets the standard in the wholesale distribution of plumbing, heating and air conditioning, industrial pipe-valves-fittings, pool and waterworks supplies for residential, commercial, industrial and infrastructure construction.
 

How do you incorporate values of diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace?

Hajoca is founded in four core values: fairness and caring, trust and respect, generous listening and straight talk. Diversity, equity and inclusion at Hajoca is an extension of our already strong culture. Our core values have guided our business throughout the years and have helped shape us into the outstanding company that we are today. We expect our managers to lead by example and seek out talent whose values matches our own.
 

What DE&I programs or initiatives does the company have in place?

At Hajoca, we have formed a DE&I Advisory Board and a DE&I Advisory Council to establish and prioritize DE&I goals and initiatives. We understand that diversity, equity and inclusion at the workplace starts with leadership. Leadership has invested in such initiatives and Hajoca has engaged external parties to provide workshops and launch an inclusive leadership training program. We also sponsored and implemented workplace harassment training nationwide for all teammates.

Our recruiting team targets recruiting events that are inclusive to veterans, LGBTQA+, women and ethnically diverse student job seekers. We also attend and promote industry-specific diversity events, like ELEVATE, which is the American Supply Association’s (ASA) Women in Industry Conference.

The DE&I Board and the DE&I Council are currently working on establishing Employee Resource Groups so that we can continue to foster an inclusive culture.
 

How do you ensure that all employees feel welcome, including new hires and interns?

At Hajoca, it’s essential that all new teammates have the tools and resources to succeed. For this reason, we tailor the training to the individual and have implemented a personalized onboarding process. New interns and management trainees rely on a number of mentors that coach and guide them as they navigate their new roles. They work next to dedicated and experienced managers who invest in their future and show them how to take charge of their own personal and professional development. At Hajoca, community is important and we encourage our teammates to network and collaborate with others outside of their business units.
 

Why do you think it’s important to foster a diverse and inclusive workplace environment?

WE ARE BETTER TOGETHER. Hajoca is about people. We believe our teammates’ unique backgrounds and experiences are essential components of our success. We are passionate about fostering an inclusive community where everyone is encouraged to be themselves and to live their dreams. Inclusion at Hajoca is an ongoing evolution that will continually adapt to the ever-changing diversity of our workforce and those we serve.
 

What are you looking for in UD students who want to intern or work at your company? How can they stand out when speaking with your recruiters at our career fairs?

Hajoca has a friendly and dedicated team of recruiters who love to speak about the company. We have a rich history and we are very proud of that. We encourage UD students to speak to us at career fairs so that they can learn about the various leadership roles we offer interns and recent graduates. Our leadership programs are designed to show interns and management trainees the business from the ground up. Therefore, we look for entrepreneurial-minded student leaders. Attitude is extremely important to us. If you are enthusiastic, goal-oriented and like to interact with people and build relationships, we encourage you to look for us at recruiting events.
 

Are you currently hiring interns or entry-level employees?

We are currently hiring both interns and management trainees at the national level. For more information on these positions and their locations, please visit hajocacareers.com.
 

Anything else UD students should know about your organization?

Hajoca has more than 400 locations nationwide serving customers in more than 40 states. We are the largest privately owned wholesale distributor in the industry. We blend the clout of a large company with the opportunity of a small one. Our businesses have the freedom to operate as independent companies, and our managers truly run the business and drive their teams’ success.

And last but not least, we love UD students. In fact, we have successful leaders in our company who are UD graduates. Thank you for allowing us the opportunity to discuss DE&I and we hope to see you at recruiting events soon!