Boeing disbands DEI department and shifts to merit-based hiring as job cuts loom

Boeing has disbanded its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) department, shifting focus to a "merit-based performance system." This change comes as the company faces financial challenges and plans to cut about 17,000 jobs, or 10% of its workforce. Former DEI leader Sara Lian Bowen has left the company. CEO Kelly Ortberg emphasized the need for structural changes to maintain competitiveness, stating that hiring and promotions will now prioritize performance over DEI metrics. The decision has sparked debate, with some arguing that DEI initiatives may no longer align with Boeing's goals. Ortberg acknowledged the significant challenges the company faces.