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Unleash Purpose to Deliver Business Impact
Gena Pirtle
Founder & Principal
Gena Pirtle is a visionary leader and consultant specializing in workforce and social impact strategies that drive business value. As the founder and principal of Gena Pirtle Consulting LLC, she leverages nearly 30 years of experience creating transformative programs that enhance organizational culture, employee engagement, and talent pipelines.
A trailblazer in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), Gena has designed and led initiatives that foster inclusive work environments while achieving corporate objectives. During her 27-year tenure at Cisco, she pioneered groundbreaking programs such as the Cisco Networking Academy® Talent Bridge, NetAcad Dream Team, Women Rock IT and Women of Impact. These initiatives have supported workforce development, bridged gaps in talent acquisition, and expanded access to career opportunities in tech.
Gena’s responsibilities included leading a global team which provided oversight and support for more than 25 Employee Resource Groups (Cisco Inclusive Communities), engaging 28,000+ members across 70 countries. Under her guidance, these groups have driven business innovation while promoting sustainable social impact. Her strategic approach amplified underrepresented voices, enhanced community connections, and reinforced Cisco’s reputation as a purpose-driven organization and consistent recognition as a Top 5 Great Place to Work®.
As Cisco’s leader for Veteran and Military Affairs, Gena spearheaded efforts to empower veterans and military spouses, creating career pathways and resources to support their transition to civilian employment. Her leadership helped launch the Cisco VETS Inclusive Community and programs like CyberVets USA, Military Spouse Connection, and the Veteran Talent Incubation Program (VTIP). Her contributions helped Cisco earn multiple Military Friendly Employer® Gold Awards, including a #2 national ranking in 2020.
During her tenure, Gena built a number of learning and development initiatives, creating educational content and fostering partnerships with top veteran service organizations (VSOs) including: Onward to Opportunity, American Corporate Partners (ACP), NPower, United Service Organizations (USO), and the Veteran Jobs Mission. She was also instrumental in launching the Randstad-Cisco Veteran Talent Exchange. Her work has helped thousands of individuals gain meaningful employment and thrive in the workforce.
Gena began her career as a broadcast news writer, producer, and publicist for major television affiliates, including NBC, FOX, and PBS. Originally from Miami, FL, she launched her professional journey in Boston, MA before settling in the Washington, D.C. metro area, where she has lived for over 20 years. An active advocate for veteran causes and workforce inclusion, Gena continues to inspire change and innovation through her consultancy, helping organizations align their workforce strategies with their mission and values.