In 1973, DJ Kool Herc threw a back-to-school party using a technique that birthed hip-hop. Raytheon recently held a seminar on hip-hop’s influence on its diverse workforce. The seminar explored how hip-hop has influenced their careers and how they maintain authenticity in a changing work environment.

On August 11, 1973, at an apartment building on Sedgwick Avenue, Clive Campbell (also known as DJ Kool Herc) threw a back-to-school party with his sister Cindy. While friends and neighbors danced to artists like James Brown and Aretha Franklin, Clive used a technique called the merry-go-round, where he played two copies of the same record and looped the percussion portions to keep the beat alive.

This event is considered to be the birth of hip-hop, which has since become a cultural phenomenon. Legends Recordings is leading a multifaceted program to celebrate the 50th anniversary of hip-hop, including concerts, festivals, art exhibitions, educational and cultural events, film and television, and podcasts.

Raytheon, a technology leader in defense, homeland security, and other government markets, recently presented a “Leadership in the Age of Hip Hop” seminar at a Career Communications Group event. The panel included employees from different positions, all of whom have been influenced by hip-hop culture.

Raytheon has a diverse workforce, with a significant population of Black employees from Generation X, Y, millennials, and soon Generation Z. Unlike baby boomers, these generations embrace all of their cultural identity and authenticity, thanks to the hip-hop culture.

This workshop explored how hip-hop has influenced the careers of Raytheon employees and how they maintain their authenticity while navigating a changing work environment. These leaders use their differences to stand out, blaze new trails, and expand possibilities while being authentic leaders and valued mentors.