Tag: 3BL

By Danny Tseng

What you should know:

• Smart meters (e.g., gas and water) and other IoT devices need wide-area connectivity and multi-year battery life, where power consumption is the No. 1 design constraint driving product differentiation and selection.
• The Qualcomm E51 4G Modem-RF (QIM225) is purpose-built for LPWA IoT and ranks among the industry’s most power-efficient chipsets, supporting both eMTC (Cat-M1) and NB-IoT (Cat-NB2).
• In lab testing, the Qualcomm E51 4G Modem-RF delivers over 20% improved power efficiency compared to a leading, widely deployed competing chipset under defined conditions across PSM, low-power and active modes.

Intelligently connecting virtually everything around us is the vision that drives our work at Qualcomm Technologies, and it’s why we deliver a broad portfolio of purpose-built processing and connectivity solutions to meet the needs of diverse industries. 

A key focus area is low-power, wide-area (LPWA) connectivity designed for massive IoT deployments, where deep coverage and multi-year battery life are must-haves. This is where 3GPP-standardized LPWA technologies, narrowband IoT (NB-IoT) and enhanced machine-type communication (eMTC) aim to provide secure, globally interoperable connectivity for sensors, meters, trackers and other low-complexity IoT devices designed to operate for years on a single battery charge.

Power consumption drives differentiation and device selection

For most LPWA IoT applications, power consumption is often the primary design constraint: devices must deliver reliable coverage while having multi-year battery life, so every microamp counts in both low-power and active modes. Lower power extends operating life and reduces maintenance visits—cutting total cost of ownership (TCO)—and it can also enable smaller device form factors by requiring a smaller battery, improving overall aesthetics and sustainability.

That’s why the Qualcomm E51 4G Modem-RF leads in LPWA IoT, purpose-built to support both LTE Cat-M1 and Cat-NB2 with advanced power efficiency. It is developed to pair optimized power consumption with a compact, cost-effective design and rich peripheral support—helping customers build smaller, longer-lasting devices without compromising features.

Proven power efficiency: Qualcomm E51 4G Modem-RF vs. competitors

To quantify the advantage of Qualcomm E51 4G Modem-RF, we measured its power consumption in our lab across different power modes and representative use cases — then benchmarked those results against one of the most deployed eMTC and NB-IoT dual-mode chipsets, the Altair ALT1250.

Power measurements in sleep and active modes

Figure 3 below shows a comparison of the measured results of E51 versus ALT1250’s published specifications. The takeaway is clear: E51 delivers >20% power savings across all power modes, from ultra-low-power modes such as power save mode (PSM) to active transmit/receive states.

A closer look at the power performance curves

In extended discontinuous reception (eDRx) mode, the power profile is defined by both the baseline sleep current and the periodic paging wakeups. A closer look at the curves shows E51 implements power optimizations to reduce total energy in these low-power states — delivering 33% lower deep-sleep current and a more efficient wakeup mechanism with 67% shorter paging wakeup time. The result is smaller current spikes, which reduces overall battery draw while maintaining network reachability.

Real-world battery life simulations for IoT use cases

To go beyond lab measurements, we also ran system-level simulations based on our lab-measured power data to model end-to-end modem behavior in real-life operating profiles. These simulations translate sleep, wake, attach and transmit events into expected battery draw over time — showing how E51 can support battery life required by targeted use cases. In this study, we looked at the power profiles for three different low-power, wide-area use cases and their battery life requirements, including smart meters, remote sensors and asset trackers.

• Smart meters: Water and gas meters typically have no main power, so they run on batteries and require ultra-long life — often 15+ years — with infrequent data transmission. For gas meters, paging monitoring is the primary battery drain, so the device commonly operates in eDRX; our simulation shows E51 reaching 15-year battery life with 7.5–11 Ah batteries, depending on the number of uplink transmissions per day. Similarly for water meters, the same 15-year target can be achieved with 0.3–4.5 Ah batteries, primarily by relying on PSM.

• Remote sensors: In applications ranging from weather stations and agricultural sensors to grid-monitoring devices, the typical battery life target is up to five years of operation on a compact battery. With PSM and sending infrequent, one-way data uploads, the E51 can achieve this target with as little as 0.2–2.6 Ah of battery capacity, depending on payload size and reporting frequency. This is designed to support smaller device formfactors and can help reduce maintenance needs and total cost of ownership for large-scale remote deployments.

• Asset trackers: These devices operate in challenging conditions, continuously uploading location data via GNSS, monitoring temperature, humidity, ambient light and motion through multiple onboard sensors, all while running in power-efficient eDRX mode. Despite this workload, the E51 can achieve up to three months of battery life on just 0.2–0.7 Ah of battery capacity, depending on upload frequency. 

Advancing massive IoT with ultra-low-power connectivity

At Qualcomm, high-performance wide-area connectivity and ultra-low-power design are part of our DNA. This is the foundation needed for delivering cutting-edge products like the Qualcomm E51 4G Modem-RF. Engineered for LPWA use cases, it helps devices run longer on a single battery charge, connect more reliably, and scale deployments more cost-effectively. We’re excited to help power what’s next in IoT, and we’ll continue to share updates as the ecosystem advances toward the vision of connecting virtually everything.

Go Deeper

How does the Qualcomm E51 4G Modem-RF achieve its power efficiency advantage?

We engineered the E51 to implement power optimizations that reduce total energy, resulting in smaller current spikes, reduced overall battery draw and maintained network reachability across PSM, eDRX and active modes. Our lab measurements showcased it delivers >20% better power efficiency than one of the most widely deployed eMTC and NB-IoT dual-mode chipsets on the market.

Explore the Qualcomm E51 4G Modem-RF

Are there more LPWA use cases and power efficiency insights beyond what’s covered here?

Beyond smart meters, remote sensors and asset trackers, the LPWA IoT landscape continues to expand — and so does our work of pushing the boundaries of power-efficient connectivity. We’ll continue sharing new benchmarks, use case coverage and ecosystem updates as the industry advances toward the vision of connecting virtually everything.

Sign up for Qualcomm IoT Connection newsletter to stay up to date

What happens when young girls are given the opportunity to design, build, and problem-solve alongside women engineers?

Confidence grows. Curiosity takes over. And for many, a future in engineering suddenly feels within reach.

That’s exactly what unfolded at Camp Engies BC, where 80 girls from across British Columbia gathered for a two-day, one-night engineering camp in Squamish. Supported by DP World, the program introduced campers ages 10 to 14 to engineering through hands-on challenges, mentorship, and conversations with women already working in the profession.

Creating Opportunities Through STEM

Engineering plays a vital role in solving many of the world’s biggest challenges, from building resilient infrastructure to advancing sustainable technologies. Programs like Camp Engies help ensure more young people – especially girls, who remain underrepresented in STEM fields – have the opportunity to see themselves in these careers.

With DP World’s support, this year’s camp welcomed 80 campers to Camp Summit in Squamish. Twelve volunteers and six female engineers shared their experiences, mentored participants, and guided campers through interactive activities designed to spark creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving.

The program also expanded access to engineering education by providing complimentary attendance for girls from Girls Who LEAP, KidSport, and the Tsleil-Waututh Nation, helping remove barriers for young people who may not otherwise have had the opportunity to participate.

For many campers, the experience offered more than an introduction to engineering – it showed them what is possible. As one camper shared, hearing directly from women in the profession and tackling real engineering challenges transformed how she saw her own future.

Investing in Canada’s Communities

Camp Engies is one example of how DP World is investing in stronger, more resilient communities across Canada. By supporting hands-on STEM education and connecting young girls with women working in engineering, the company is helping inspire the next generation of innovators, problem-solvers, and leaders.

That commitment extends well beyond the classroom. In 2025, DP World employees volunteered more than 750 hours supporting initiatives focused on environmental stewardship, education, food security, and community resilience. The company also partnered with the Vancouver Canucks to host DP World Game Night, bringing fans together while supporting local charitable initiatives and strengthening community connections.

Whether introducing a young camper to engineering or volunteering in communities across the country, DP World believes meaningful community investment starts by creating opportunities for people to learn, grow, and succeed.

As one camper expressed, attending Camp Engies changed how she viewed her future. What began as a two-day camp ended with a new ambition: to become an engineer and designer who creates products that improve people’s lives.

Sometimes, the biggest impact starts with a single opportunity.

Watch the video above to learn more about Camp Engies and their mission of empowering girls to explore careers in STEM.

Artificial intelligence has moved well beyond the experimental phase, and organizations across North Carolina are facing the challenge of using AI responsibly, effectively, and at scale.

Industry leaders gathered for North Carolina Technology Day 2026, Lenovo’s annual celebration of the state’s tech innovation to discuss the opportunities, challenges, and real-world applications shaping the future of AI. In a panel discussion moderated by I-Sah Hsieh, deputy secretary for AI and policy at the North Carolina Department of Information Technology and leaders from AMD, Cisco, Lenovo, SAS, and North Carolina Central University explored topics ranging from cybersecurity and workforce development to data governance and responsible innovation.

AI Is Moving Into Everyday Operations

The prevailing theme of the discussion was that AI is no longer a future technology.

Panelists shared examples of how their organizations are integrating AI into daily operations, and how they are moving beyond pilot projects and experimentation. Kumaran Siva, corporate vice president of enterprise AI at AMD, described the company’s evolution from early computer vision applications on manufacturing lines to broader enterprise adoption efforts that now touch multiple areas of the business.

Panelists noted that successful AI implementation requires more than access to powerful tools. Long-term success depends on infrastructure, governance, and employee readiness.

The conversation also addressed adoption challenges within organizations. Ada Lopez, senior manager of inclusive product design at Lenovo, said the technology itself is not the main barrier but the associated stigma of AI use as employees worry about how AI use will be perceived by their colleagues. Lopez said leaders can help remove the hesitation by sharing how they use AI in their own work, which can help foster an environment for AI experimentation.  

Data Remains the Foundation

The public conversation around AI focuses on new models and capabilities; however, the panel repeatedly returned to a less visible topic: data.

New AI tools can only be as effective as the information that powers them. They emphasized the importance of data governance, access controls, and intellectual property protection as organizations expand their AI efforts.

“Your data layer is still the most important asset you have,” Udo Sglavo, vice president of applied AI and modeling R&D at SAS, said. “Machine learning models do not unlearn. Once it’s out there, it’s out there.”

The discussion highlighted a common trend: organizations often rush to evaluate new AI tools before establishing the policies and safeguards necessary to protect sensitive information. Panelists emphasized that even the most advanced technology can create unnecessary risks without this foundational work.

A New Era for Cybersecurity

 The Impact of AI on Cybersecurity drew some of the most substantial commentary.

Omar Santos, distinguished engineer of cyber and AI security at Cisco, described how rapidly advancing AI capabilities are changing the threat landscape and lowering barriers for bad actors. “A teenager with $100 of API access on a frontier model can do what a nation-state was able to do last year,” Santos said.

Despite those risks, Santos expressed optimism about the opportunities AI creates for defenders. He described how organizations use AI-powered tools to simulate attacks, identify vulnerabilities, and strengthen security posture at a speed that was previously impossible. “We can flip the table,” Santos said. “We do have the opportunity right now to accelerate and modernize.”

A key takeaway was that while AI has expanded the capabilities available to threat actors, it has also strengthened organizations’ ability to identify threats and improve defenses.

Expanding Access to AI Education

The conversation extended beyond technology and into education, led by Dr. Siobahn Day Grady, founding director of the AI & Emerging Research Institute at NC Central University. Dr. Grady outlined the impact of the institute as it is the first AI Institute established at a historically Black college or university in the United States. It is supported by funding from Google.org and serves students from a wide range of academic backgrounds while also engaging community members outside the university.

“AI is for everyone,” Grady said. “This moment is no different than when the internet arrived, and some people got left behind then too.”

Rather than focusing exclusively on engineering or computer science students, the institute works to introduce AI concepts across disciplines. The panel agreed that broad AI literacy will be important as the technology blends into daily routine.

Human Judgment Still Matters

As AI systems become more capable, concerns about accountability continue to grow.

Discussion turned to where AI can operate independently and why human governance remains necessary. The panelists agreed that AI can streamline operations and enhance productivity, but responsibility should always remain with people. “Responsibility belongs to humans,” Siva said. “That will never change, and that is what will underpin wherever AI actually takes us.”

Sglavo reinforced that perspective. “Innovation and creativity are human traits,” Sglavo said. “The technology will not solve our problems. We have to solve our problems using that technology.”

 AI’s Human Impact

The most memorable discussion highlighted the people that utilize this technology, and the positive effect AI has had on their lives.

Lopez shared an example from Lenovo’s work with the Scott-Morgan Foundation, which uses AI technology to help people living with ALS preserve their voice, stories, and likeness through digital avatars. The project also sparked discussion around privacy, ownership, and personal rights, highlighting broader considerations for policymakers, technology companies, and communities as advances in AI continue to outpace the laws and regulations designed to govern them.

Looking Ahead

The panel covered a variety of topics, but the following remained consistent throughout the conversation.

• Organizations must invest in strong data practices before scaling AI.
• Cybersecurity strategies will need to evolve alongside emerging threats.
• AI literacy will become increasingly important.
• As AI technology is optimized, human governance remains essential.

Panelists encouraged leaders to engage with AI now rather than wait for the technology to mature. “Use it. Build it. Make it better,” Santos said. “We are now in the exponential. This thing will get significantly better next year.”

For North Carolina’s technology, business, and education leaders, the message was clear: the AI era is here. The focus has shifted from understanding what this technology can do to determining how it can be used responsibly and effectively.

MUMBAI, India and NEW YORK, July 28, 2026 /3BL/ – Points of Light, a global nonprofit dedicated to volunteer service and civic engagement, has bestowed its inaugural Volunteer Ambassador & Champion Program Award to Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) (BSE: 532540, NSE: TCS), a global leader in IT services, consulting and business solutions. TCS received the accolade for its Leaders with Purpose program, which trains employees to become leaders in community engagement.

The award recognizes TCS Leaders with Purpose program for empowering employee leaders who champion volunteerism, inspire community engagement, and mobilize meaningful action across teams and the organization. Throughout North America, participants in the Leaders with Purpose program support STEM education and nonprofit organizations through sustained volunteer initiatives that expand opportunities, strengthen community resilience, and help address critical social needs.

“We believe companies have an important role to play in mobilizing people, strengthening communities and creating lasting, sustainable impact,” said Jennifer Sirangelo, president and CEO of Points of Light. “Tata Consultancy Services’ leadership demonstrates what is possible when service, purpose and partnership come together to address community needs. We are proud to celebrate Tata Consultancy Services and its continued commitment to building stronger, more resilient communities.”

Points of Light announced the award on June 23 at its annual conference in Washington, D.C. For TCS, the recognition reflects a long-standing approach to corporate social responsibility that encourages employees to contribute time, skills and leadership to nonprofit organizations across North America.

“We created Leaders with Purpose to help our people develop the leadership skills necessary to become truly effective at local community engagement,” said Lina Klebanov, Head of Corporate Social Responsibility, North America, TCS. “Nonprofits are doing challenging and important work that requires volunteers who listen, learn and contribute as trusted partners over time. I’m proud of the TCS volunteers whose commitment to giving back to local communities made this recognition possible.”

Through the Leaders with Purpose program, TCS employees build relationships with nonprofit organizations and use their leadership and professional skills to tackle community priorities. The program’s capstone project model helps participants transition from learning to action, while giving nonprofit partners access to volunteer leaders who can support projects, mentoring, skills-based service and sustained engagement.

The Points of Light Volunteer Ambassador & Champion Program Award underscores TCS’ broader efforts to advance social impact in North America through employee volunteering, STEM education, digital inclusion and nonprofit partnerships.

Leaders with Purpose: By the Numbers

• 450+ TCS employees have graduated from Leaders with Purpose to date.
• 200+ North American nonprofits have been supported through Leaders with Purpose capstone projects.
• Participation has increased 165% since the program launched in 2018.
• 73% of program graduates remain active volunteers.
• 75% of program graduates are interested in mentoring future cohort members.
• Program alumni collectively contribute an average of 8,500 volunteer hours each year.

About Tata Consultancy Services Ltd (TCS)

Tata Consultancy Services (BSE: 532540, NSE: TCS) is the technology partner of choice for industry-leading organizations worldwide. Since its inception in 1968, TCS has upheld the highest standards of innovation, engineering excellence and customer service.

It has set an aspiration to become the world’s largest AI-led technology services company and is enabling its clients to transform themselves across the full AI stack, from infrastructure to intelligence.

Rooted in the heritage of the Tata Group, TCS is focused on creating long term value for its clients, its investors, its employees, and the community at large. With a highly skilled workforce spread across 56 countries and 194 service delivery centres across the world, the company has been recognized as a top employer in six continents. With the ability to rapidly apply and scale new technologies, the company has built long term partnerships with its clients. Many of these relationships have endured into decades and navigated every technology cycle, from mainframes in the 1970s to artificial intelligence today.

TCS sponsors 14 of the world’s most prestigious marathons and endurance events, including the TCS New York City Marathon, TCS London Marathon, Tata Mumbai Marathon, and TCS Sydney Marathon, with a focus on promoting health, sustainability, and community empowerment.

TCS generated consolidated revenues of over US $30 billion in the fiscal year ended March 31, 2026. 

For more information, visit www.tcs.com.

Follow TCS on LinkedIn | Instagram | YouTube | X.

TCS media contacts:

Corporate Communications & India	Email: corporate.communications@tcs.com Email: santosh.castelino@tcs.com | Phone: +91 22 67789098
U.S.	Email: andrew.corcione@tcs.com | Phone: +1 646 617 8221
North America Corporate Social Responsibility	Email: eve.pidgeon@tcs.com | Phone: +1 313 605 1026

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Noah Hernandez was the first person in his family to attend college. It was his passion for science and math, and a belief that engineering shapes the future, that led him to pursue mechanical engineering with a focus on thermodynamics, heat transfer and fluid mechanics.

And his participation in Trane Technologies’ Graduate Training Program, helped prepare him for his next role as an account manager for new systems. “HVAC is a lot more complex than people think,” Noah says. “There’s definitely a lot more engineering involved than just making cool air.”

VIDEO: How the Graduate Training Program Prepared Noah for a Meaningful Career in Energy Efficiency

Knowledge, confidence and camaraderie in the Graduate Training Program

Before joining the Graduate Training Program, Noah worked full time as an estimator in his local Trane Technologies office, where he first heard about the program from account managers and leadership. “This isn’t something other companies in our industry really offer,” he says.

“From day one, we’ve been getting real training, and we’re coming out well-equipped for the field.”

Noah Hernandez
Account Manager, Trane Technologies

The program, which mixes deep technical education with real-world learning and leadership development, is designed to close the university-to-industry gap. “I studied all the fundamentals in school — thermodynamics, fluid mechanics — and now I’m seeing how it all fits together in actual HVAC systems,” Noah explains. “It’s powerful to tie that theory to real-life practice.”

Just as important as the technical learning has been the people around him in the program. “One of the best parts of the program has been the camaraderie. We’re all going through this together. Everyone here is smart, driven and collaborative. I’ve made such great friends here.”

Mentorship and growth

Alongside the camaraderie, mentorship plays a central role in the Graduate Training Program experience. Each participant is paired with a mentor who provides one-on-one support throughout the program. “Our mentors are there to help guide us, to talk about where we’re struggling and identify what we need to develop. 

“The Graduate Training Program’s not just growing us technically; it’s growing as people.”

That whole-person development is built into the program’s design. “It’s intense,” Noah admits. “The days are long, but the weeks go by quickly. We’ve learned how systems work, how to manage our time, how to present and understand ourselves and how we learn.”

The Graduate Training Program also dives deeply into sales, including the differences between new systems, service and controls sales, giving each participant the tools to succeed in their chosen track.

HVAC’s role in climate impact

For Noah, one of the most eye-opening takeaways of the program has been HVAC’s role in global emissions. “HVAC systems make up a third of the world’s energy usage,” he says. “I didn’t realize just how big of an impact we can make. And I think that’s really inspiring.”

While sustainability wasn’t the initial reason Noah joined Trane Technologies, it’s become a core part of his mission. “Now that I understand how much our systems matter, I see my role differently. I’m helping engineers and building owners move toward a more sustainable future.”

That shift starts with education. “We’re consultants. Customers look to us for expertise. So, staying educated and sharing that knowledge with our customers is one of the best ways we can contribute to a more sustainable world.”

Building a purposeful career 

After graduating from the program, Noah will return to his office in Texas, where he’ll work with engineers and contractors to lay out HVAC systems for large-scale building projects. But this time, he’s stepping in with confidence, tools and a network of support behind him.

“Trane Technologies is a great company to work for. The culture, the people, the training — it’s all been incredible,” he says.

“If you’re an engineer who wants to make a difference, this is one of the greatest decisions you can make.”

Noah Hernandez
Account Manager, Trane Technologies

Sell something meaningful with Trane Technologies. Ready to make an impact? Explore your future in sales with Trane Technologies.

At WK Kellogg Co, we believe healthy soils are the foundation of resilient farming communities, thriving ecosystems and a more sustainable food system. Through our support of the Dan Gillespie Soil Health Fund, we are helping expand opportunities for soil health education, farmer-led innovation and youth engagement initiatives across Nebraska.

The Dan Gillespie Soil Health Fund is working to strengthen the future of agriculture by investing in projects that advance regenerative agriculture, soil biology, water stewardship, biodiversity and hands-on agricultural learning. Together, these efforts are helping producers, students and communities explore practical approaches that improve soil health, strengthen farm productivity, protect natural resources and build resilience for future generations.

One example of this impact is Battle Creek High School FFA member Claire Schmidt, whose award-winning agriscience research demonstrates the leadership and innovation emerging from the next generation of agricultural stewards. Schmidt won the Nebraska State Agriscience Competition in the Environmental Service/Natural Resource Systems category with her project, “Optimizing Nitrogen Application to Maximize Crop Yield, Economic Returns, and Soil Health.” Supported through funding from the Dan Gillespie Soil Health Fund and an anonymous donor through Nebraska Community Foundation’s Youth Engagement Grant, her research showed how optimized nutrient management can improve economic returns while supporting soil health and protecting water quality.

The Dan Gillespie Soil Health Fund continues to invest in farmers, educators and community organizations working to advance soil health knowledge and adoption throughout Nebraska. By supporting locally driven solutions and practical on-farm learning opportunities, these investments help create agricultural systems that are productive, environmentally responsible and economically sustainable.

Here at WK Kellogg Co, we are proud to support this work alongside other donors and community partners who share a commitment to sustainable agriculture, natural resource stewardship and agricultural education.

As a result of this collective investment, the Dan Gillespie Soil Health Fund will increase its maximum grant award to $2,500 for the next two grant cycles, creating additional opportunities for farmers, educators and students to pursue innovative soil health projects that deliver lasting environmental and community benefits.

“We’re proud to support the Dan Gillespie Soil Health Fund and its efforts to expand opportunities for soil health education and innovation,” said Sarah Ludmer, Sustainable Business Officer at WK Kellogg Co “Healthy soils are foundational to resilient farming communities, thriving ecosystems and a sustainable food system. Investing in soil health helps create opportunities for farmers today while supporting future generations of agricultural leaders.”

Supporting initiatives like the Dan Gillespie Soil Health Fund reflects WK Kellogg Co’s broader commitment to advancing sustainable agriculture and building resilient communities through its Feeding Happiness sustainable business strategy. By investing in soil health education, farmer innovation and youth leadership, WK Kellogg Co is helping create positive outcomes for people and the planet while supporting the long-term sustainability of the agricultural systems that help feed communities across the country.

Smile Train, the world’s largest cleft-focused organization, has once again earned top recognition from leading nonprofit evaluators Charity Navigator, Candid, and GreatNonprofits for 2026. These renewed ratings reflect Smile Train’s continued commitment to transparency, accountability, financial stewardship, and the meaningful impact of our work for children and families affected by cleft conditions globally. 

For donors, partners, and supporters, these recognitions serve as trusted signals of Smile Train’s effectiveness and responsible management. They demonstrate that the organization operates responsibly and remains focused on delivering sustainable solutions through its global network of local medical partners.

Each recognition highlights a different aspect of nonprofit excellence. Charity Navigator recognizes nonprofits that demonstrate strong financial health, accountability, and measurable impact. Candid, formerly known as GuideStar, highlights organizations that provide comprehensive, transparent information about their mission, programs, goals, and results. GreatNonprofits is based on reviews and stories from volunteers, donors, and community members, reflecting the real-world experiences of those who know our work best.

Together, these honors strengthen confidence among supporters and reinforce Smile Train’s reputation as a trustworthy organization. For many donors, independent evaluations like these play an important role in understanding how nonprofits operate and making informed decisions about where to give.

“These recognitions are a reflection of the dedication and collaboration of the entire Smile Train community,” said Elyse Taub, Chief Development Officer at Smile Train. “Every team member, partner, volunteer, and supporter contributes to the accountability and impact that these ratings represent. These achievements belong to everyone who helps advance our goals.”

As Smile Train continues working toward a future where every child born with a cleft has access to the care they need to live a healthy, full life, these renewed recognitions reaffirm the organization’s commitment to excellence.

To learn more about Smile Train’s work and global impact, visit www.smiletrain.org. 

For the fifth consecutive year, SLB has earned a top score on the Disability:IN 2026 Disability Index^®, a leading benchmark that measures disability inclusion and accessibility practices.

This year, SLB has been recognized on the index as one of the World’s Top Disability Inclusive Businesses, a distinction that highlights SLB’s disability inclusion efforts, including global best practices and locally led initiatives.

“This year’s Disability Index shows that leading companies are embedding disability inclusion into the core of how they operate. It’s shaping how businesses design products, build trust and drive innovation. The companies leading today are the ones building more adaptable, resilient and future-ready organizations,” said Jill Houghton, president & CEO, Disability:IN.

The index measures performance across a range of disability inclusion practices, including employee resource groups (ERGs), accessibility of buildings and digital content, accommodation processes, disability inclusion training and employee support programs.

“We are proud to be recognized in the Disability Index again this year and named one of the world’s top disability-inclusive organizations,” said Carlos Sarmiento, director of Culture, Diversity and Inclusion at SLB. “The index provides data-driven insights to help assess inclusion in the workplace and identify actions to drive progress. Focusing on workplace inclusivity creates opportunities and builds a culture where all employees can contribute and thrive.”

Supporting these efforts is SLB’s ThisAbility Network, an ERG that provides a global community for employees with disabilities, long-term health conditions and caregiving responsibilities. The network provides opportunities for employees to share experiences, access peer support and promote learning across the organization.

This recognition follows SLB’s inclusion earlier this year on the 2026 Forbes Accessibility 200 List, an annual ranking focused on accessibility and disability inclusion.

Learn more about SLB’s inclusive culture here and in the company’s Sustainability Report.

Yum! Brands

When Dan Shacklett first agreed to help finish a fence on Angie Clark’s Kentucky farm, he thought he was lending a hand. He didn’t realize he was stepping into a future that would include thousands of feet of fencing, three horse-related businesses and, eventually, a wedding.

“She had 16 unfenced acres, so I went to help,” Shacklett said. “I didn’t know I was going to put up 2,700 more feet of fence all by myself. That’s how I knew it was love.”

This fall, Shacklett will marry Clark, and together they run Royal Creek Farm, where they board horses, manage a breeding program and build custom pieces for the equestrian community. Their third venture, Red Oak Customs, grew out of Shacklett’s lifelong ability to make and fix things. He builds everything from picture frames and signs to horse tack trunks and show-ready barn setups.

That hands-on skill also serves him in his day job at Yum! Brands, where Shacklett is a building and facilities supervisor at the company’s Restaurant Support Center (RSC) in Louisville, Kentucky. His role is part project manager, part problem solver, making sure his team knows that his door is always open if they have a personal issue or need advice.

Shacklett’s days are long, starting at 3:45 a.m., tending to the horses before hitting the gym and then sitting down at his computer by 5:30 a.m. He tries to leave the office around 3 p.m., then heads straight to Royal Creek Farm. There, he feeds the horses, checks the creek and makes sure debris hasn’t caught in the fencing or gates. After that, he heads to the garage to work on customer orders for Red Oak Customs. By 8 p.m., he stops to eat dinner, watch the news and get a few hours of sleep before doing it all again.

Foaling season can make that already full schedule even more unpredictable. There have been times Shacklett called his coach, Yum! Corporate Services Manager Royce Blevins, to say he’ll be late — not because he overslept, but because a foal was arriving.

“Dan is an early riser. If he’s not in the office by 6 a.m., it’s because he’s bringing a magnificent foal into this world!” said Blevins. “He’s not only a great building engineer, he’s an excellent horseman!”

For Shacklett, the farm is less a hobby than a return to his roots. He grew up on a 150-acre farm where his family raised tobacco, cattle and four Belgian draft horses (the kind of big, sturdy horses people often compare to Clydesdales). Those early years shaped the way he sees animals and the way he approaches work.

“A horse is just a big dog,” he said. “You just have to be easy with them and talk to them. They’re like big puppies that eat a little more.”

Shacklett has always been drawn to work that requires his hands. Before joining Yum! eight years ago, he worked in conveyor maintenance, served as a contractor in Afghanistan helping train and manage local workers and worked as a machinist. Long before any of that, he was the kind of kid who took things apart just to understand how they worked.

“If I couldn’t figure out how to get it back together, then I’d get whipped,” Shacklett said. “So you figure out real quick how to put it back together!”

That practical mindset has carried into every part of his life, from managing facilities projects at the RSC to building the infrastructure at Royal Creek Farm from the ground up. He is quick to point out that the horse world is not all polished arenas and blue ribbons. Show horses may be in the ring for only 10 or 15 minutes, but getting them there takes months of training, travel, care and planning.

Still, he wouldn’t trade the long days. His favorite part is simple: being with the horses. Each has its own personality, from the retired Hackney Road pony named Whiskey to Bocelli, a boarded horse with torn retinas who relies on Whiskey to help guide him back from the creek.

“Wherever Whiskey goes, Bocelli goes with him,” Shacklett said. “Sometimes Bocelli can get down to the creek by himself, but he can’t always find his way back up the hill. Whiskey will go out there, nudge him and bring him back. It’s sweet.”

That connection is what keeps Shacklett going, even on five hours of sleep. The farm is demanding, but it also gives him something he can’t always find in the middle of a busy workday: quiet focus.

“If you have a bad day, you can go out there and mess with the horses, and the stress goes away,” he said. “You’re focused on them — how they’re doing, what they need. That’s my stress relief.”

For Shacklett, that balance is possible because of the support he feels at Yum!. He says his team knows his phone is always on and that he’ll answer if there’s an issue. In return, he appreciates the flexibility to manage the occasional early-morning foal or farm emergency.

“They know if there’s an issue, I’ll answer the phone,” Shacklett said. “We’re very flexible.”

It is a fitting arrangement for someone whose days are built around responsibility — to his team, the building, the animals and the future he and Angie are building together. What started as a fence line has become a life stitched together by work ethic, craftsmanship and care.

Celebrating 74 Years of Investment in Education, the Foundation Awards up to $585,000 in Financial Aid to 20 Future Leaders Across 11 U.S. Communities.

The Whirlpool Foundation recently announced that it has awarded 20 scholarships to the students of Whirlpool Corporation employees through the Sons & Daughters College & Vocational Training Scholarship Program. The scholarship program is in its 74th year.

These scholarships celebrate the best and brightest among high school seniors across Whirlpool Corp. locations – including the company’s 10 U.S. manufacturing communities. The Whirlpool Foundation provides these scholarships through a competitive process in which children of more than 20,000 U.S. employees are eligible to apply.

“We have seen firsthand how these awards make a tangible difference, providing the educational foundation these students need to launch their chosen career paths.” 

“We are proud to invest directly in the future of America’s next generation of leaders through this long-standing scholarship program,” said Traci Robinson, managing director of the Whirlpool Foundation. “We have seen firsthand how these awards make a tangible difference, providing the educational foundation these students need to launch their chosen career paths.”

The students listed below have been selected to receive a 2026 scholarship.

From global headquarters in Benton Harbor, Mich.:

• Logan Bellinger, child of Ryan Bellinger
• Juhi Bhatt, child of Aarti Mutatkar
• Samara Kiwale, child of Christopher Kiwale (Vocational)
• Elijah Neidlinger, child of Jason Neidlinger
• Audrey Rodewald, child of Marci Rodewald
• Pihu Sahai, child of Tiru Sahai
• Ethan Sherrod-Watkins, child of Asia Wimbush-Sherrod

From manufacturing operations in Amana, Iowa:

• Shreeya Shetty, child of Shekhar Shetty

From manufacturing operations in Cleveland, Tenn.:

• Masyn Gladson, child of Jamie Gladson
• Ian Morgain, child of Patience Morgain

From manufacturing operations in Clyde, Ohio: 

• Matthew Kreh, child of Michael Kreh
• Taliyah Farris, child of Talib Garrett

From manufacturing operations in Findlay, Ohio: 

• Neeti Barot, child of Trushna Brahmbhatt

From manufacturing operations in Greenville, Ohio: 

• Gavin Stachler, child of Shawna Stachler

From manufacturing operations in Marion, Ohio: 

• Miley Corbin, child of Carla Bollinger
• Patience Delaney, child of Aleyna Brodman

From manufacturing operations in Ottawa, Ohio: 

• Madeline Liebrecht, child of Greg Liebrecht

From manufacturing operations in Tulsa, Okla.:

• Lilia Benoit, child of Jean-Francois Benoit

From other U.S. locations:

• Sara Barragan Ferrer, child of Adriana Ferrer (Florida)
• Cooper Wey, child of Bill Wey (North Carolina)

The Sons & Daughters College & Vocational Training Scholarship Program has provided more than 2,600 scholarships and honor awards totaling over $18 million, with 86 scholarship and award recipients currently attending colleges, universities and vocational schools across the U.S. Children of any full-time Whirlpool Corporation employee at the director level and below are eligible. Students pursuing a 4-year degree will receive $30,000 over 4 years and students working toward a 2-year vocational degree will receive $15,000 over 2 years toward their respective educational costs. Students must maintain a 2.8 grade point average to maintain their scholarship.

Whirlpool Foundation
Since 1952, the Whirlpool Foundation has been making real, positive differences in local communities where Whirlpool Corporation families live and work. This is accomplished through two central pillars: House+Home. “House” supports a decent and affordable place to live and plan for the future, and “Home” focuses on creating thriving, resilient communities with the essential services, quality education, and job training needed to help people dream bigger and do better. The Foundation has an absolute commitment to equality and fairness and takes an innovative approach to social investing that prioritizes impact with measurable results.

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