Guard/Reserve and those who support veterans. The primary goals of VRG are to foster the continued growth of a military/ Diversity and inclusion veteran-friendly environment at AAR and enhance recruitment, training and retention of veterans. VRG conducts special events, activities, training and seminars. Public Diversity Statement Each of these ERGs are led by an executive sponsor and create As reflected in our values, we have a long-standing commitment to a sense of belonging, contribute to retention, offer mentorship embracing diversity and fostering a culture of inclusion. In July 2021, opportunities and sponsor events. We currently have plans to launch AAR’s Veterans Resource Group (VRG) is a community we adopted and published the following Public Diversity Statement: ERGs to support our Black, Latinx, Asian and LGBTQ+ employees, committed to a shared, common purpose: creating unique Just as unique parts are essential to an aircraft’s ability to fly, to provide a platform and a safe space for our employee population opportunities while providing support for our Veteran unique talent is essential to AAR’s ability to succeed. Our strength that is often under-represented. employees. Not only is it a safe space for vets to share stories is rooted in our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. We and experiences, it’s also a place where everyone can learn and We are also focused on increasing diversity as part of our grow together.” create opportunity through new thoughts and ideas to embrace hiring practices. an ever-changing world. These values empower our people to be David Tillich a team of producers, innovators and world class leaders, who are Diversity and inclusion education Manager, Strategic Supplier Management “Doing it right” to better connect the world. In 2021, we also rolled out additional diversity and inclusion This statement was developed by a group of employees selected education. AAR has engaged an outside expert to conduct more from throughout the business, reflecting the varied perspectives, than 40 leadership sessions and 150 workshops for employees from f AAR scend en o wom h the experiences and priorities of our workforce. May to October 2021. wit Commitment to inclusion Leadership sessions At AAR, facilitating an inclusive culture means everyone feels • Diversity and Inclusion and the role of the leader • Communication styles, dialog and team success Ascend, AAR’s Women’s Business Resource Group, has been a welcome and appreciated. tremendous resource in terms of networking and professional • Unconscious bias and the impact on performance development. Open to all employees, it provides an additional In 2015, a women-focused Employee Resource Group (ERG) was • Micro-messaging and microaggressions space to work with inspirational women who are committed formed, dedicated to elevating the careers of women at AAR. The to the empowerment, professional, and personal growth of group, now called Ascend, provides opportunities for members • Active listening, empathy and leadership to expand their professional networks, gain leadership skills and • Advocacy one another.” develop skills to advance professionally. Individual contributor sessions Meredith Fabian In 2021, we formed VRG, our veteran-focused ERG for employees Senior Manager, Contracts – Government Program Management • Diversity and Inclusion overview coming from the military community. Members include veterans, • Unconscious bias employees with military connections, those serving in the • Micro-messaging and microaggressions 21