Otis launches ‘Made to Move Communities’ global CSR program

30 / 09 / 2020

By Tawian News - -

Otis Worldwide Corporation (OTIS) has launched a new global corporate social responsibility (CSR) program focused on advancing youth STEM education and inclusive mobility solutions. Otis is the world’s leading company for elevator and escalator manufacturing, installation and service.

“We are deeply committed to global citizenship and are proud to advocate for inclusivity and sustainable solutions in our communities through this program,” said Otis President & CEO Judy Marks. “As a company that created an industry and transformed how people live and work, we look forward to doing our part to further shape the world we live in for generations to come.”

Made to Move Communities™ is an annual global student challenge that will inspire creative, STEM-based solutions for real-world mobility issues. Students in the program’s first year will focus their research on mobility solutions for those communities most affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the United Nations 2020 Sustainable Development Goals report, over 90 percent of COVID-19 cases are in urban areas. During the challenge, students are free to explore solutions that enhance connectivity and productivity; education, employment, medical care and social services. For example, this could include challenges with public transportation or mobility access for those with disabilities. The 2020/2021 program will be conducted virtually to support a safe learning experience for students.

The program’s goals align with “Our Commitment to Change” announced in August, as the company expands upon its ongoing commitment to STEM and vocational education, joining with community and business partners to invest in and build a diverse talent pipeline. Through hundreds of dedicated employee mentorship hours and STEM program grants, Made to Move Communities aims to make meaningful impact.

“We know that the STEM skills gap may leave millions of positions in the manufacturing industry unfilled over the next decade,” said Laurie Havanec, Executive Vice President & Chief People Officer. “This is one way to start to close that gap. We are harnessing our passion, resources and commitment to help young minds explore new ways to give people freedom to connect and thrive in a taller, faster, smarter world.”

The student program will take place in phases across each of Otis’ four geographic regions, beginning in October 2020 and concluding in March 2021. Schools from Brazil, Mainland China, Germany, Hong Kong, Japan, Russia, Singapore, Spain and the United States will participate in the inaugural program. Otis intends to build on the successes from this pilot year, growing the number of locations, students and employees involved – and the reach and impact of the program – each year.