Founded in May 2020, TPG’s Emerging Professionals Group (EPG) is a community for new hires as well as those who are just starting out in their careers. A steering committee facilitates professional development in a safe space and positive learning environment, which in turn leads to stronger relationships with both fellow members as well as the longer-term TPGers who interact with the group.
Their early 2020 timing was spot on – EPG quickly became an impactful way for new professionals to connect and engage with one another while COVID quarantining. “The idea actually came about well before the pandemic,” says EPG co-founder and steering committee leader Chase Fettig. “But when we all worked from home, we saw an even greater need and value for people to come together in some way.”
While professionals just embarking on their careers may comprise the majority, Chase notes that all new TPGers are welcome to attend EPG events and gatherings. “It’s a rare opportunity for us to get to know people apart from the day-to-day and from different divisions in the company. It’s been great seeing people build both rapport and relationships outside of their own teams.”
“I joined EPG to grow professionally in the industry, as this is my first career job,” says Junior Digital Marketer Michelle Mendoza. “I value continuous education opportunities and this was one offered by TPG. Being part of the Emerging Professionals Group means being surrounded by like-minded individuals who have a similar drive to network, learn, and grow in our designated career fields.”
EPG holds hour-long meetings every six weeks for its approximately 30 members, with social events scattered throughout for community building. They regularly welcome a member of executive leadership or head of a division to join them to talk. “How cool and rare is it that we have leaders who willingly meet with us and will spend time answering our questions face to face?” says Chase. Recently, CEO Brad Nantz met with the group to talk about TPG’s new Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP). “It was really helpful to hear Brad’s thoughts on ESPP from our viewpoint, considering the financial implications.”
Along with the informational presentations and Q&As, the group gathers for fun events once a quarter – bowling happy hours, breakfast BINGO, trips to Mariners games, meet-ups at Blazers games, and more. “What’s been really nice is that TPG’s carrier partners will often sponsor an EPG event. That’s been a great way to connect with them outside of work in a social context. We truly appreciate it.”
You may be asking, do people “age out” of the EPG, even though the group is not specifically defined by generation? “It’s up to the person to decide how long they want to participate,” explains Chase. “We’ve had people step away because they’ve crossed the threshold of needing this type of support, while others move on to new positions that cut back on their availability.”
Speaking of generations, when asked what he thinks of the stereotypes regarding millennials or Gen Zs in the workplace, Chase is diplomatic. “I think our industry in particular attracts a certain sort of person, one who appreciates those who have come before us and what we can learn from them. EPG bridges that gap; we develop relationships not only with each other but with the leaders and managers who interact with us.”
***
Interested in connecting with Chase about the EPG – maybe you’d like info on how to set up a similar group or sponsor an EPG activity? Contact him at cfettig@tpgrp.com.
****
