1940’s

Leading the way in
corporate diversity.

As a forward-thinking CEO, Walter Wheeler recognized the value of diversity in the workplace. He championed the hiring of women and people of color, a reflection of the community that surrounded the Pitney Bowes headquarters in Stamford, CT.

From 1940 to 2020…

Our commitment to corporate culture continues to this day, exemplified by multiple awards and recognitions. These include: the Forbes List of America’s Best Employers for Diversity in 2020, the Bloomberg Gender-Equality Index in 2020 and the Forbes Best Employers for Women in 2019.

1942

During World War II, Pitney Bowes converts 95% of its total production to support the allied effort. This includes developing a device known as the API, the first navigational instrument to provide continuous latitude and longitude readings. This Pitney Bowes innovation is credited with the success of numerous aerial missions.

1942

Image of WW2 mailroom

1942

Women comprised nearly 40% of the workforce at the Stamford, CT plant. The commitment of Pitney Bowes to hire women for key positions continues to the present day.

Women awards Images of women employees at Pitney Bowes

1942

Walter Wheeler and his associates boycott a hotel that refused to register an African-American salesman from Pitney Bowes who was being recognized at our annual Sales Leadership Conference. We were among the first companies to actively recruit people of color for employment.

1943

Walter Wheeler advocates for cultural inclusivity in the workplace. He drafts a memo instructing his Personnel Department to hire with diversity in mind.

Images of Pitney Bowes employees

1946

After World War II, Pitney Bowes remains committed to the hiring of women and people of color. Many other companies reverted to hiring primarily men.

Image of Pitney Bowes staff photo