Recode Decode: Tristan Walker, CEO, Walker & Company

Diversity Issues

Tristan Walker highlights the persistent diversity issues in the tech industry, emphasizing the need for genuine efforts to diversify the workforce. He criticizes the notion that talented Black and Latino tech workers are hard to find, labeling it as "complete bullshit," and points to his own success with Code 2040's fellows program as evidence of their existence 1. Walker argues that the lack of diversity often stems from a failure to enforce inclusive values at the top levels of companies 2.

If you're not judging folks during their reviews, like, how are you going to check against that behavior? It's impossible.

--- Tristan Walker

He believes that as the world becomes more diverse, companies will inevitably have to adapt or risk being left behind.

   

Culture & Values

Walker stresses the importance of defining company culture and values to attract diverse talent, moving away from the vague concept of "culture fit." He shares how his company established six core values—courage, inspiration, respect, judgment, wellness, and loyalty—before even raising funds, ensuring that all employees align with these principles 3. This approach not only fosters diversity in race, gender, and age but also in personality and thought.

Whenever I hear the word culture fit, it irks. Like, it gets really mad, specifically because no one ever defines it.

--- Tristan Walker

Walker also reflects on his leadership journey, acknowledging the challenges of aligning his step-function leadership style with the gradual learning pace of his team 4.