How Ada Helped Build a Diverse Engineering Pipeline for Seattle Startup
At Highspot, diversity isn’t just a talking point. They invested heavily in building diverse pipelines after finding it challenging to source diverse candidates for senior-level roles. They realized that front-loading their pipeline with a variety of good candidates meant that, in time, they would develop amazing diverse talent at all levels in their organization.
Building diverse pipelines
Building diverse pipelines is no easy task. When Jeremy Modjeska, VP of Product and Engineering Operations, came to Highspot, he was on a mission to build out a team with DEI in mind. Previously working at Moz, where over one-third of his Moz team was Ada graduates, Modjeska knew that diversity of backgrounds makes the best teams and that Ada was the right partner to help.
The application process includes an online application, a technical interview, and a behavioral interview. Each part of the application process is designed to evaluate an applicant’s desire to enter the tech industry, passion for Ada’s mission, and readiness to thrive in the program. All phases after the application are by invitation only.
Comprehensive intern screening creates great hires
Ada’s program is exceptional. It is the gold standard for creating non-traditional pathways into lucrative tech careers.
What makes Ada interns different, according to Highspot, is that they are tenacious, smart, and adaptable. This is partly due to Ada’s comprehensive intern screening and vetting process. Ada has a highly selective admissions process with a 21% acceptance rate. Chosen candidates have the best technical skills, a passion for technology, collaboration, and perseverance, making them a great addition to growing tech firms, especially Highspot.
”The program sells itself once you get interns through the door,” says Modjeska. “95% of interns here earn a full-time offer. You recognize immediately the caliber of the Ada graduates and their value to your business and company’s culture.”
Amplifying impact together
In just two years, Modjeska built his team from 9 people to over 200.
Highspot and Ada’s partnership is a great example of how two organizations can amplify their impact together. Through Highspot’s investment in DEI, they have become an example of an inclusive workplace that celebrates diversity and different work styles.
Modjeska agrees, “Ada is doing a good thing for the world and building top talent on our team.”
