This month’s member spotlight is on Daniel Wright (he/him)! Based in Rutland, Daniel is a Human Resources professional who has called Vermont home for the past five years. He is also the owner of Endeavor Group HR Solutions, Inc., where he provides expert HR services for small businesses.
To learn more about his work, visit endeavorgrouphrsolutions.org or connect with Daniel on LinkedIn.
Tell us a bit about your background before arriving in VT and what brought you to the state!
Born in California to an African father and a Spanish mother, I grew up bridging cultural differences between my parents. This unique background helped me develop strong communication skills and a deep sense of emotional intelligence. During my service in the U.S. Army, I honed his leadership and strategic planning abilities. Throughout and after his military career, he traveled to 23 countries and lived in Europe for several years. These global experiences enriched my cultural exposure and deepened my ability to connect with diverse communities.
How did you get into your career?
Upon leaving the military, I knew that I wanted to work in a field that would allow me to find, develop and maneuver human talent in a way that would benefit the overall success of the organization. I worked towards obtaining my bachelors in business, then quickly followed that up with masters in HR management.
Why are you a member of the Vermont Professionals of Color Network?
Representation for people and professionals of color could feel limited in Vermont and the VT PoC is a fantastic community that not only brings awareness to issues that people of color experience, but also provides exposure and opportunity for them as well.
What aspects of life in VT do you find most fulfilling? What about your professional life here stands out to you?
I moved to Vermont in 2020 due to the pandemic after living in France for nearly 4 years and have found that the low crime rate offers a sense of safety for me being a person of color.
As an HR Professional/Consultant in a state that is predominantly white, I have found that organizations in Vermont receive my feedback with an elevated level of appreciation for my experiences. I thoroughly enjoy the interest people have for the places I’ve been and the experiences I’ve been through.
Looking back, what advice would you have appreciated receiving about being a professional of color in VT before you arrived?
I had never been to Vermont prior to moving her, so a little real-world perspective on the state-wide culture could have been helpful. It took a few months getting to know what a “Vermonter” was.
What are some challenges that you’ve faced on a professional level since living in VT?
Vermont is a considerably small state making it difficult to create an abundance of clients. In my short 5 year experience here, I’ve witnessed many small businesses open and close within a year or two of opening. However, the HR industry is ongoing and organizations seem to continually need culture transformation assistance, team building, leadership development and oftentimes third-party investigations. One challenge I found as a new Vermonter was getting my brand out into the community when not knowing many people.
Can you share any strategies or resources that have helped you overcome these challenges?
I started attending HR and business conferences, both in Vermont and out of state. I’ve been able to network myself and my brand in a way that might have been easier in larger states or cities. I’ve also become a member in many communities and societies, including a number of HR chapters.
Tell us about the work you’re currently doing and what drives you in your profession!
I find myself leaning into leadership development, conflict resolution, organizational culture repair and effective communication consulting. I find that humans do what humans do and oftentimes could use a bit of coaching to do it better. I find great satisfaction in leading others through difficult times and helping them find a clear path forward.
What future opportunities do you see for your industry, particularly in the context of the state?
I see Vermont, as a whole, investing in HR or People & Culture opportunities and it’s exciting to think that this industry is thriving in our state. Most organizations could use an HR tune up or refresher and I plan on being there to deliver just that.
In your opinion, how can VT better support its BIPOC residents, both professionally and personally?
This is truly a difficult question to answer. I can see how the state has attempted to prioritize awareness regarding inclusion and diversity. This is an area that will continue to evolve and need attention throughout the coming years, so my suggestion for Vermont would be to remain nimble and continue to focus on meeting the ever-changing needs of our community.
Can you share an experience in VT that highlighted your cultural identity?
Attending “The BLACK Experience” (BX23, BX24, BX25) was not only motivating and full of extremely important historical and current information, but it also reminded me of who I am and why we’re fighting for equality.
What aspects of your culture do you see reflected in the Vermont community, and what aspects do you feel are missing?
I do not see much of either of my cultures (Black/Spanish) reflected in the community, especially for the Spanish or Hispanic community.
What advice would you give to young BIPOC professionals starting their careers in Vermont?
I would say, “Be true to yourself and your brand”. Starting your career as a professional in Vermont can come with unique challenges. However, it also comes with powerful opportunities to lead and build BIPOC communities, allowing you to make a lasting impression.
