PTC Celebrates Diversity & Inclusion with Award from the National Diversity Council

In early 2019, PTC moved our global headquarters to Boston’s Innovation District, the epicenter of cutting-edge technology, research, experimentation, and creativity. The philosophy behind the District—“If you identify as innovative, you are more than welcome”—inspires a culture of inclusivity, collaboration, and knowledge-share that is unparalleled.

For PTC, the change meant not only proximity to some of the nation’s most renowned technology companies, research institutions, startups, and—also a renewed focus on promoting a workplace culture of corporate diversity and inclusivity.

With President and CEO Jim Heppelmann signing the CEO Action for Diversity & Inclusion™ pledge, which works to engage CEOs across different regions and industries to advance diversity in the workplace and create an environment of true inclusivity, PTC is demonstrating our commitment to workplace equality.

PTC is being recognized as a leader in workplace diversity and inclusion, with Hillary Ashton, EVP and GM of Augmented Reality, recently named to the National Diversity Council’s (NDC) annual list of the Top 50 Most Powerful Women in Technology. The NDC is the first non-profit organization to bring together the private, public, and non-profit sectors to discuss the many dimensions and benefits of a multicultural environment.

The NDC’s list recognizes female executives, influencers, and achievers who are shaping the future of technology with their impactful insight and leadership. Under Ashton’s leadership, PTC’s augmented reality business has expanded around the world, showcasing her strategic thinking, results orientation, and ability to assemble and lead a high-performing team.

When asked about the award, Ashton cited the importance of PTC being recognized as a company that prioritizes diversity and inclusivity. “Companies striving for diversity understand that it’s a key factor in creating successful teams,” said Ashton.

“This is, by no means an individual award—it’s one I share with PTC as we take proactive steps to promote cultural diversity through ongoing discussions and focus sessions, improvements to our global benefits and practices, and more.”

The NDC selected women for the award who exemplified the following:

• Top leader in her organization and profession
• Direct contributor to business growth or strategic direction of the organization
• Effective role model who inspires other women and is active in mentoring
• Operates at the highest integrity and ethical behavior
• Demonstrates a commitment to corporate citizenship

Ashton received her award last month at the National Diversity and Leadership Conference in Dallas, Texas, which featured renowned speakers such as former President Barack Obama and General Colin Powell. The five-day conference offered attendees the opportunity to explore the tools and resources necessary to build a diverse workforce, as well as grow in their knowledge of diversity and leadership.

“It’s important for PTC to be recognized as a company promoting diversity and it starts by acknowledging the value of diversity,” said Ashton. “There’s a big education component—people need to understand that diversity is beneficial to everyone—and those conversations need to happen early and often.”

Ashton is a member of the “Women of PTC” employee resource group, a global community dedicated to empowering women to take charge of their careers both inside the organization and in the broader marketplace and community.

She is also involved with FIRST® Robotics Association, the leading, not-for-profit STEM engagement program for kids worldwide. FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) designs accessible, innovative programs that motivate young people to pursue education and career opportunities in STEM white building self-confidence, knowledge, and life skills.

Learn more about PTC's open, collaborative community of employees—and how we're making truly amazing advancements in what’s possible now and in the future.