Beth_McMullenAvnet, Inc., a leading global technology distributor, announced today that Beth McMullen, vice president of IT for Avnet, Inc., was selected as one of STEMconnector® 100 Diverse Corporate Leaders in STEM. McMullen was honored in the STEMconnector® publication featuring top executives who have demonstrated a commitment to STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) and diversity initiatives and are making a difference with these efforts. In the publication, McMullen shares her opinions on workforce diversity, the importance of STEM education and what it takes to be a leader in these areas.

“Avnet is committed to investing in improving education and helping underserved groups obtain the skills and services they need to be successful in the technology workforce,” said Steve Phillips, senior vice president and CIO of Avnet, Inc. “Beth embodies this commitment and is a role model for anyone considering a STEM-related career. This recognition celebrates Beth’s dedication to providing the leadership and nurturing needed to truly make a positive difference in the lives of the next generation of business leaders.”

McMullen, a 20-year technology industry veteran, was promoted to her current position in July and leads IT strategy for Avnet’s logistics business globally. Throughout her career, McMullen has actively encouraged and fostered diversity in STEM-related careers. For example, she is a member of the Avnet Executive Women’s Forum leadership team. This group provides mentoring, networking opportunities and leadership development for Avnet’s female executives. McMullen is also a board member for Arizona Women’s Education and Employment (AWEE), a workforce development organization. Previously, McMullen was a member of both the Information Technology Advisory Board for the State of Arizona and the Workforce Development Committee at the Arizona Technology Council, a trade association for science and technology companies.

“STEM education has never been more important,” said McMullen. “As technology plays an increasingly critical role for every company, the knowledge and skills acquired through STEM will soon be viewed as foundational – transferrable to any industry and required by all. It has been my privilege to work closely with a wide range of people to help them obtain the education and skills needed to accelerate their professional success and achieve their career dreams.”

The STEMconnector selection process for the 100 Diverse Corporate Leaders in STEM included thorough research and outreach to over 100 CEOs for nominations. Information for each nominee was collected in three areas: the executive’s background and career; the company’s STEM position within its industry; and the nominee’s perspective on a variety of issues in the STEM space, including mentoring and diversity.